This sumptuously illustrated history presents, in an updated new edition, an in-depth account of Britain's most important buildings, from castles, royal palaces and stately homes to fortified manors and the great country houses, and provides a wealth of stories and information on this glorious architectural past and heritage.Detailed coverage is given of the World Heritage Sites of Edward I's castles at Beaumaris, Harlech, Caenarvon and Conwy, plus other spectacular buildings such as Blenheim Palace, The Tower of London, Burghley House and Windsor Castle.Special features focus on important art and architectural movements and on the great architects including Wren, Adam, Wyatt and Lutyens.