The Moving Metropolis

The growth of London over the last 200 years has been closely linked with the expansion of its public transport services, facilitating both its dramatic increase in size to become the largest city in the world in Victorian times, and its later suburban growth up to the mid-20th century, when it was curbed by green belt legislation. This work covers the entire history of public transport in London, from its beginnings in the early 19th century up to the present day, when “London Transport” has changed to “Transport for London”. Comprehensively illustrated, it covers all the main phases of the system, from early water transport, horse buses and trams, the steam underground, up to the modern electric underground and buses. There are also contemporary photographs and engravings of the construction and operation of the network, its innovative posters and graphic design, the personalities and the architecture. The book is organised chronologically, each chapter containing an illustrated opening essay, numerous images with extensive captions, and feature boxes that focus on specific themes.