The Dover Road: Annals of an Ancient Turnpike

Name: The Dover Road: Annals of an Ancient Turnpike
Author: Charles G. Harper

By Charles G. Harper

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History - British

About This Book

The author follows an ancient highway between London and the Channel, combining travel narrative, local history, and antiquarian observation as he describes towns, bridges, castles, coaching inns, and roadside scenery. The text traces prehistoric trackways and Roman engineering, the development of turnpike and stagecoach travel, and the social life and customs that clustered along the route, from folk signs and anecdotes to institutional and architectural remnants. Illustrated plates, mile-by-mile listings, and documentary fragments punctuate accounts of pageantry, commerce, and changing transport, offering a panoramic sketch of how a single thoroughfare shaped and reflected regional life over centuries.

About the Author

Charles G. Harper

Charles G. Harper was a prolific English author and illustrator known for his works that explore the history and culture of travel in Britain. His notable titles include "Cycle Rides Round London" and "From Paddington to Penzance," which reflect his passion for the English landscape and its historical narratives. Harper's writing often combines vivid descriptions with a sense of adventure, making his travelogues both informative and engaging. He also contributed to the genre of picturesque biographies with works like "Half-hours with the Highwaymen," showcasing his interest in the colorful characters of British history. His diverse body of work continues to be appreciated for its charm and historical insight.