The Peak District: Landscapes Through Time (Landscapes of Britain)

by KenSmith (Author), JohnBarnatt (Author)

• Used

  Paperback
  2004

  $15.75

  The Peak District has been inhabited by humans for tens of thousands of years, beginning the process that irreperably changed the shape of the landscape. This volume focuses on this relationship between human settlers and farmers and the landscape showing how both have been affected by the other. Following a brief examination of the earliest evidence for hunter-gatherers, principally stone artefacts and cave sites, the authors focus on the activity that, more than anything else, has shaped the landscape that we see today, agriculture. The study searches for evidence of the earliest farmers in the remains of fields, structures, sacred monuments and burials, including over 500 barrows. The authors trace fluctuations in farmers' fortunes, especially during the Iron Age when the climate changed for the worse. Supported by maps, photographs and illustrations, the book discusses the impact of hillforts and the Romans, the increase in mining, Christian monuments, the creation of villages, the uses of woodland, common ground and enclosed areas, the introduction of turnpike roads and the industrial monuments of the 18th and 19th centuries. This is more of a chronological survey than an in-depth study of the Peak District although the narrative is informative if rather impersonal.

• Used

  Paperback
  2000

  $3.31

  Produced in association with the Rambler's Association and Harvey's Maps, this new series covers some of the most popular walking areas in Britain and Ireland, combining detailed route descriptions with information on the local history and wildlife. The Peak District boasts an unrivalled network of around 1,400 miles of public rights-of-way, and over 80 square miles of open access on the northern moors. This guide allows the reader to explore the infinite variety of walking opportunities, which range from gentle riverside strolls, to tough moorland treks. /The introduction gives information about the topography, geology and history of the area, and describes the flora and fauna inhabiting it. /The main section of the book comprises 30 walks. Each walk has a key illustrating principal features, such as level of difficulty and type of terrain, a route profile indicating altitude and distances, and a fact file summarising useful information such as start and finish points, duration, safety advice and points of interest. /Illustrated with colour maps from leading authority, Harveys, each walk is then described in detail with clear, easy-to-follow instructions. As well as route descriptions, the text gives the history of the main landmarks along the way plus information on the natural history of the area, and is accompanied by stunning colour photographs.

• Used

  Hardcover
  2000

  $3.31