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The Traditional Shops & Restaurants of London: An Alternative London Travel Guide

by Eric Daams in United Kingdom , Travel Books

A while ago, I was sent a copy of The Traditional Shops & Restaurants of London, a book which celebrates the city’s rich heritage and offers a refreshing perspective of contemporary London. Eugenia Bell, the author, has selected a broad range of establishments which evoke historical London in the modern age. She doesn’t simply applaud old business for being old; rather, she applauds those that operate their business in an old-fashioned way. In her words, they are “establishments that celebrate their history less for the tourists it may attract and more for the sheer pleasure of making and selling things in traditional ways.”

The book includes shops, restaurants, pubs, cafes and markets from the past four centuries alongside new classics. Bell’s balanced, concise writing is complemented by Phil Nicholls’ photography and a simple, rustic design. The address, phone number and website of each establishment are included for extra convenience.

For travelers, The Traditional Shops & Restaurants of London is a unique alternative to the guidebook. Rather than point you to certain key “attractions”, this book is about deepening your understanding of the day-to-day sights in London. It offers a refreshing perspective with more than a hint of nostalgia. And thanks to its diminutive size, the book is easy to slot into your luggage.

The Traditional Shops & Restaurants of London is published by The Little Bookroom.

Published 14 Nov 2007