The book opens with a magnificent history of the kings and queens of Britain, shown in paintings, photographs, drawings, family trees, and maps. This is the story of royalty in Britain, from the legend of King Arthur and the mystery of the Princes in the Tower, to the Abdication Crisis of 1936, the life of Diana, and the scandals and challenges facing the Royal Family today. More than 100 biographies are included, plus information on every British dynasty, including the rulers of Scotland, as well as the pretenders to the throne, usurpers, and regents who played a role in the making of the United Kingdom.

The second part of the book focuses on some of the most significant and dramatic historic sites in Britain and Ireland. In-depth features cover over 120 of the finest buildings, from Caernarvon Castle and the Tower of London, to Windsor Castle, Leeds Castle, and Buckingham Palace. Explore the great Norman castles of Dover, Chepstow and Richmond, the royal palaces of Hampton Court and Kensington, and the masterpieces of Chatsworth and Castle Howard. From castles to kings, from stately houses to statesmen and nobles, the legacy of Britain’s past is an intrinsic part of the country today. With over 1,000 illustrations, this expert and comprehensive celebration of British royalty and architecture will delight and inform every reader.