A History of British Architecture: Who’s to Blame?

Simon Jenkins, bestselling champion of Britain’s national heritage, reveals the untold story of why our country looks the way it does.

About the event

The story of Britain is revealed through its buildings, and yet the language of architecture is a mystery to all but a few. Simon Jenkins will translate the hidden narratives infused in the facades we walk past every day.

Britain’s history has been formed by its politics, religion and society. These influences can be seen in the architectural styles that have shaped its landscape.

From pre-Roman and the Middle Ages to the Renaissance and the Industrial Revolution, Classical and Gothic styles surged and retreated from favour only then to be challenged by a new player. This new style, Modernism, reflected the stunning technological advances of the second half of the 20th century.

Simon Jenkins will introduce us to the singular, eccentric and sometimes rather ordinary characters who shaped Britain. He will teach us to see the world anew, demystifying the elitist language of architecture so that we can all appreciate the buildings around us.

Additional information

This event is eligible for our 20% ticket bundle discount.

Book tickets to three or more different events across the festival and you can save 20%. Tickets must be purchased in the same transaction and the discount will automatically be applied within the basket.

About the speaker

Simon Jenkins is the author of the bestselling ‘A Short History of England’, ‘A Short History of Europe’, ‘Britain’s 100 Best Railway Stations’, ‘England’s Thousand Best Churches’ and ‘England’s Thousand Best Houses’. He is a former editor of the ‘Evening Standard’ and ‘The Times’, and a columnist for the ‘Guardian’.