Fascinating architectural icons from Britain's cities and towns by one of the country's most prominent house historians. Britain's favourite house historian investigates the stories behind our most famous streets and squares. An array of medieval lanes, Georgian crescents and Victorian squares make an appearance, together with the people – famous, infamous and unfamiliar – who designed, built and lived in them. Melanie Backe-Hansen takes us beyond the facades, delving into the evolution of ancient streets, the aspirations of builders and architects, and the extraordinary lives of past residents. She also reveals the fascinating stories of how some of our oldest and most valued crescents, lanes and avenues have survived into the twenty-first century, and the twists and turns of their journey along the way. The history of our streets, avenues, lanes and squares reveals more than just changes to architectural style, but offers a doorway into the heritage of our nation. AUTHOR: Melanie Backe-Hansen is an historian, writer and speaker, specialising in the social history of houses across the United Kingdom. She is a research consultant for 'A House Through Time' (BBC Two) and was also series historical consultant for 'Phil Spencer's History of Britain in 100 Homes' (More4). She regularly contributes to national media and lifestyle magazines and has featured on numerous TV and radio programmes. She is also a regular speaker at events and universities. Melanie is a member of the Royal Historical Society and is an honorary teaching fellow at the University of Dundee. She lives in London. 165 colour illustrations