A-Z: A-Z of Aylesbury : Places-People-History (Paperback)

The inviting Buckinghamshire town of Aylesbury has far more to offer than just the well-known Aylesbury duck. The Romans, Anglo-Saxons, Danes, and all other conquering invaders have left the echoes of their voices in this ancient town’s history, which can still be heard today in its streets and its quirky squares. Situated on the great Roman road of Akeman Street, Aylesbury became an important trading center through the ages. It was declared the new county town of Buckinghamshire by Henry VIII in 1529. A-Z of Aylesbury offers an engaging insight into the places, events, and famous sons and daughters across the centuries. The author takes readers on a guided tour through local history ranging from an Iron Age hillfort and the Battle of Aylesbury in 1642 to the art installation commemorating David Bowie’s appearance in the town in the 1970s where he debuted Ziggy Stardust. Readers will also discover the intriguing stories behind some of the characterful inns and historic buildings of the town including the Corn Exchange and the Derby Arms. Among the people associated with Aylesbury are the author Roald Dahl, the 19th-century Prime Minister Benjamin Disraeli, and the comedian Ronnie Barker, who began his career in the town. Then there are events ranging from the trial of the Great Train Robbers to the county’s lacemaking heritage and the predecessor of the Paralympic Games at Stoke Mandeville.