Rule, Britannia!

'British Heritage' has been one of my favourite magazines since my childhood. I learned much of British history, country life, culture, and style from this magazine. Despite the occasional categorisation under Archaeology in some guides and libraries, this magazine is in fact a remarkably broad-based publication that examines various aspects of British life. I think the Queen might be a bit surprised to find a story about how she spends Christmas under the heading 'Archaeology'.

In my home I have a large stack of 'British Heritage', which several decades ago incorporated the magazine 'British History Illustrated'. The quality of writing and subject matter has been remarkably consistent over the years. One will find experts in various aspects of British life among the authors: such British names such as Lord Crathorne, Victoria Sackville-West, Beryl Olive Bailey, James Stockesbury frequently show up in the contents; major scholars too, such as Norman Davies, Alison Weir, and Antonia Fraser also show up on occasion to delight the readers.

This is not a 'Royal' publication, nor is it an exclusively upper-class periodical. While one will be treated frequently to tours of the great country houses (a large number remain unknown not only to the regular tourist trails but also to the nearby residents), and regular features on the royals past and present, in 'British Heritage' one will also find a regular offering of military history, literary history and analysis (a 1981 article on the Carlyles comes to mind as particularly worthwhile), geography, geology, and yes, archaeology. Britain has a settled history spanning millenia; the pre-history goes back even further (Stonehenge is not the only pre-written-historical point of interest!).

Holiday issues often explore how Britons in different parts of the kingdom and in different historical periods celebrated, as well as tips on how to integrate these traditional and/or lost customs into one's own family celebrations.

Britain being an island, there is much of seafaring history, custom and lore that is presented. A good article on the network of canals and rivers, now much less vital for transport, appeared recently, as well as an examination of undersea gravesites and archaeological discoveries. In fact, this becomes apropos as the Government debate whether or not to disturb wreckage dating to the second world war for offshore mining; history continues into the present, and the debate is on about what is important to preserve for future generations--a constant theme in building, development and land use, which is now extending offshore.

One will find the occasion features on pubs of historic or cultural interest, a look at shopping past and present, and of course, information for the prospective and current tourist to add more of an historical dimension to the latest drive-by sighting.

'British Heritage' is not confined to the British Isles, however, and frequently includes an article on one of the colonies or commonwealth countries, particularly as those places have attempted to preserve parts of their own 'British Heritage.'

Britannia may no longer rule the waves, but it has had a profound and lasting impact on the world. This magazine helps recapture some of the spirit that made this possible.

Delightful, informative treat

As a long time subscriber, I have found British Heritage to be as creative and interesting a magazine as must exist. Subjects are diverse, the writing intelligent and often great fun, presentation delightful. It covers everything from history (for which it is a goldmine - there are unexpected and fascinating topics in each issue) to wonderful places to visit to ideas for a perfect afternoon tea.

Another distinguishing feature of this magazine is that it is solid journalism and creative, scholarly writing. Though it would be valuable to travellers (the more for those who spend a good deal of time in England), it is not aimed at tourists, nor is it a publication with a primary aim at increasing tourism.

Great Samples of Britain

British Heritage magazine is great for articles on all different topics pertaining to the British Isles. It does not focus on one area, but each issue has articles on various topics, from a trip through the Northern coast of Scotland and the history of the area, to celebrations of Queen Elizabeth II. The magazine does focus on the history of areas, people and ideas, but is diverse. it gives you a nice sense of the country, the people and their past, as well as places to visit and sites to see. Overall it's very well written and interesting to read, at a fraction of what other british magazines cost here in the States.