A History of England in 100 Places

Book excerpt: Historic places across the country have shaped England and the world beyond. They are hotbeds of invention, industry and creativity and they bring our nation's story to life. In 2017 Historic England launched the 'Irreplaceable: A History of England in 100 Places' campaign, designed to celebrate England's remarkable places. Guided by public nominations and a panel of expert judges, including Professor Robert Winston, Mary Beard, George Clarke, David Olusoga, Baroness Tanni Grey Thompson and Bettany Hughes, we compiled a list of 100 places where remarkable things have happened and shaped our collective identity as the country we are today. The book is divided into ten categories ranging from Music & Literature, through Science & Discovery to Power, Protest & Progress. The final 100 selected places are all contained within this illustrated book. From the observatory in Greenwich where the modern measurement of time began, to England's oldest inn carved into the sandstone in Nottingham, the choices are surprising, intriguing and enlightening.