From Paddington to Penzance The record of a summer tramp from London to the Land's End

Set out from Paddington on a sweltering summer, the author turns the ordinary act of walking into a lively chronicle of England’s most storied highway. Along the famed Brighton Road, he records the clatter of horse‑drawn coaches, the chatter of cyclists, and the hum of early motor traffic, all filtered through a keen eye for the quirks of village life. His narrative balances witty anecdotes with thoughtful reflections on the road’s changing face.

Interwoven with these present‑day observations are vivid sketches and reproductions of eighteenth‑century engravings that bring the golden age of coaching to life. From the bustling inns of Reigate to the salt‑kissed cliffs near Brighton, the writer captures both the grand sweep of the landscape and the small human dramas that unfold beside it. The result is a richly illustrated, breezy travelogue that invites listeners to feel the road beneath their feet as if they were walking it themselves.

Throughout the journey, the author’s affection for the highway shines through, turning each mile into a portrait of England’s enduring spirit. Listeners will find a charming blend of history, humor, and vivid illustration that makes the long walk feel like a shared adventure.