What is the origin of the stories of the Round Table, of Excalibur and the Holy Grail, of Sir Launcelot and Guinevere? And where was Camelot?

King Arthur’s name has echoed down the centuries, conjuring up rich images of mystery and power, chivalry and romance. But did he exist at all? There is no evidence to prove he reigned in the fifth and sixth centuries; no eye-witness accounts of his coronation and no reliable manuscripts outlining his deeds.

This full-colour guide examines the facts of the legends in the tantalising puzzle of King Arthur and his knights. Learn about the origins of the Round Table, the cult of chivalry and conflict between knights, and Arthur’s shape-shifting half-sister Moran le Fay. From the origins of Arthurian legend to the new phase in the Arthurian cyce in the romantic revival of the early nineteenth century, read about the tantalizing puzzle that is King Arthur.

Look out for more Pitkin guides on the very best of British history, heritage and travel.

Branded one of the greatest villains of all time, the name Guy Fawkes is synonymous with a spectacular crime that never was – the Gunpowder Plot. But who was this young man, caught up in a world of intrigue, treachery, betrayal, spies, double agents and informers? Why did he become involved in this plan to bring down the government and monarchy? Who were his fellow conspirators? And who was really responsible for orchestrating this would-be act of treason?

Unravel these mysteries, discover why the scheme failed and the eventual fate of the doomed plotters in this informative and finely illustrated Pitkin Guide.

Portrays Elizabeth I’s turbulent life and times and the achievements of the talented men of the time, among them Sir Francis Drake, Sir Walter Raleigh and William Shakespeare. Look out for more Pitkin Guides on the very best of British history, heritage and travel.

Part of the Pitkin History of Britain series (linked to key stages 3 and 4 of the National Curriculum), this book draws on eye-witness accounts and contemporary documents to bring alive the personalities and events of the time. It also takes a fresh look at this glorious period. Look out for more Pitkin Guides on the very best of British history, heritage and travel, specially further titles in this series.

Based on two walks, this guide takes in all the best on offer in Scotland’s capital city, detailing all its history, romance, culture and tradition mixed with Edinburgh’s 21st-century sophistication and charm. With informative facts and histories of the city’s attractions and neighbourhood’s, the guide covers the Old Town’s majestic Royal Mile, dominated by the grey fortress that is Edinburgh Castle, and the contrasting Georgian elegance of the New Town.

Accompanying a range of suggestions for diverting activities and places to visit, the guide has colourful photos of Edinburgh’s best views and provides historical detail on the famous landmarks of the city.

Look out for more Pitkin Guides on the very best of British history, heritage and travel, including other titles in our popular City Guides series.

This is a beautifully illustrated and well-researched Pitkin Guide. Taking costume though the ages from 1500 to the present day, it shows how we can relate our own experience of fashion to that of our ancestors. Look out for more Pitkin Guides on the very best of British history, heritage and travel.

But King George VI would not allow him to travel on that day, so he came six days later. Many millions have followed his footsteps since, but none had so privileged a view as Churchill did that summer’s day. Here, in the words of those who witnessed the great man’s progress, and through photographs – many previously unpublished – we relive the events of that day.

The Celts came from Central Europe earlier than 1200 BC – then spread into different tribal groups across Europe. This is their story. Look out for more Pitkin Guides on the very best of British history, heritage and travel.

By the 5th century AD the Roman Empire was in decline and the influence of Roman Christianity waned in the British Isles. This vacuum was filled by some remarkable men and women – saints revered by a growing Celtic church for their holiness and wisdom: Patrick, Illtud, Petroc, Brigid, Brendan, David, Columba, Columbanus, Oswald, Aidan, Hilda and Cuthbert. Look out for more Pitkin Guides on the very best of British history, heritage and travel.

This definitive handbook contains over 130 specially commissioned colour photographs and six maps. It will enable everyone to experience the enduring appeal of those great monuments to the great Christian tradition. Look out for more Pitkin Guides on the very best of British history, heritage and travel.

A history of Bath

For hundreds of years York was England’s second city, a thriving and prosperous port. Now, encircled by its ancient walls and with its beloved historic stone minster, the city is loved by visitors from all across the world.

A small city with layers built up since Roman times by successive communities, York has a rich history with fascinating contrasts of the ancient and the modern. Visit the awe-inspiring limestone Minster in the centre of York, still the tallest building in the city, or learn about iconic locomotives in the National Railway Museum. The arrival of chocolate companies Terry’s and Rowntree’s in the 19^th century has made York’s Chocolate Story the perfect destination for those with a sweet tooth.

This detailed guide provides a choice to two walks that show the best that York has to offer, with extra places to visit and diversions for visitors with more time. The city’s gardens and museums are listed as well as shopping areas, accompanied by beautiful colour photographs of locations within York.

An indispensable guide for tourists visiting York and locals wishing to learn more about the city.