If any one book could be said to be the authoritative text on Bristol’s architecture, it would be this one. Scholarly and dense, packed with technical terms and references, it nevertheless provides a fascinating look at the city’s buildings from the medieval period to the present day. It is a comprehensive guide, written by Bristol historian Andrew Foyle with contributions by Bridget Cherry, to every significant building in Bristol.

The 324-page guide looks in particular detail at the two cathedrals, St Mary Redcliffe Church, the Council House, Central Library, Exchange, Wills Memorial Building, Clifton Suspension Bridge, Temple Meads, and the 15 churches still standing in the city centre.

Each area of the city is then divided up into walks. Opening a page at random, I have alighted on Colston Street and a look at the Colston Hall (though without the new foyer), Friary House, the former YMCA building and Foster’s Almshouses, which is accompanied by a beautiful full-page photograph.

The book also travels further afield to take a look at Arnos Vale, Ashton Court, Blaise Castle and Blaise Hamlet, Kingsweston House and Tynetesfield.

I have barely scratched the surface, but already I am hooked.

I purchased my copy for £10.50 at Stanfords on Corn Street and I wholeheartedly recommend that if you choose to buy it, you purchase it from there as well for it is one of the best shops in Bristol. Their website can be located here.