An account of the evolution of English towns, this book investigates medieval street plans and houses, and looks at the powerful influence which medieval churches had on their towns. It charts the dramatic impact of the Industrial Revolution, and the development of Georgian London and of country towns. The author also re-evaluates the underrated contributions of Victorian architects, taking his study up to the building of the first garden city. This comprehensive account covers over 440 towns over the whole of England and Wales.