Apollo Heritage A History of How We Conserve Our Past.

by James Stourton

464 pages, Paperback

Published November 9, 2023

Reviews

[Catherine Jeffrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting book especially when you’re familiar with the town or museum the author is discussing. A little too much detail regarding all the numerous heritage bodies that were appointed over the years but at least you realise how fragmented the whole approach has been.

[Ken Sampson · Rating 3 out of 5]

[04 Feb 2025] This was a long-haul book, which wasn't entirely what I was expecting, but I wasn't sure what I was expecting. It is well written, interesting and informative. I did enjoy it, but couldn't shift the thought that it was a primer for students of town planning, or those embarking on a career in the heritage industry. It was so detailed that it didn't feel like it was aimed at the general reader (for me anyhow). It starts with the usual beautiful open-countryside, stately homes and art treasures and then ranges far and wide. It is very expansive and includes the whole gambit of heritage, including town scapes, buildings, factories, mills, canals, trains etc.

It is packed with facts and statistics and is shocking in revealing the disregard that Governments of all parties have for our heritage. It maintains a politically neutral position and avoids being critical of mass immigration which drives the madness of the housing crisis and house building across the country, including in open countryside and the green-belt. It is sad and depressing and a real-eye opener. It is a worthy book, informative, enjoyable and an easy read, but be warned it is not just about the National Trust or stately homes, but it gives a real sense of the depth and breath of Britain's heritage and how it is valued, protected and challenged.