Chelsea has always been a district beloved by the influential and wealthy. Initially a small riverside village that centred around Chelsea Old Church, from the late seventeenth century Chelsea mushroomed inland and the King's Road, originally the private road of Charles II, became its main artery. New buildings replaced Chelsea's market gardens and fields and streets and squares were developed on what had been previously private estates. It became a popular artists' colony and its bohemian reputation continued in post-war London when the King's Road became a major fashion hub and Mary Quant and Vivienne Westwood established their boutiques. Its Old Town Hall has been venue for fashionable weddings, and Chelsea's many listed buildings, including the Royal Hospital designed by Wren and home to the Chelsea Flower show, designer shops, theatre, concert hall, the Saatchi Gallery in Duke of York Barracks and characterful pubs make it a delight to visit and explore. Chelsea in 50 Buildings unveils the history of this fascinating area of West London through a selection of its most interesting buildings and structures, showing the changes that have taken place over the years. The book will appeal to all those who live in Chelsea or who have an interest in the area.

About the Author
Lucy McMurdo is the author of Bloomsbury in 50 Buildings, Explore London's Square Mile, Streets of London, London in 7 Days, Chiswick in 50 Buildings, Islington & Clerkenwell in 50 Buildings, Hampstead & Highgate in 50 Buildings and City of London in 50 Buildings. A history graduate and London Blue Badge Tourist Guide she spends many hours exploring the city and researching its hidden stories. Her career in the tourism industry has involved her in the training and examining of guides in several London universities and at Hampton Court Palace.


Book Information
ISBN 9781398120914
Author Lucy McMurdo
Format Paperback
Page Count 96
Imprint Amberley Publishing
Publisher Amberley Publishing