Alice Loxton

In 1290, England mourned the death of a queen, Eleanor of Castile, beloved wife of King Edward I. Her body was carried on a 200-mile journey from Lincoln to London, a solemn procession that would become immortalised in stone. To mark the places where her cortege rested, a heartbroken Edward commissioned twelve magnificent Eleanor Crosses. More than seven centuries later, bestselling historian Alice Loxton set herself an epic challenge: walking the entire 200-mile funeral route from Lincoln to London, precisely following in history's footsteps on the corresponding dates in November and December 2024. As Alice journeys in search of England’s forgotten queen, over ancient paths and modern motorways, history comes alive in surprising ways. Lively and entertaining, Eleanor uncovers the extraordinary life and formidable character of a royal, the hidden history of Britain and Eleanor’s inspiring legacy.

The Instant Sunday Times BestsellerBlackwell's Book of the YearShortlisted for Waterstones Book of the Year'The star of her generation' – Dan Snow, host of History Hit'Bursting with ideas and images' – Philippa Gregory, author of The Other Boleyn Girl'Utterly, utterly brilliant' – Tracy Borman, author of The King's WitchAt eighteen, your life is full of what-ifs and why-nots. You have everything to look forward to – unless you've got the plague . . . What happens if the First World War breaks out while you're at universit? ow does a young woman, born without arms or legs, make a living in Georgian Londo? hat turns a rugby-obsessed teenager from a Welsh mining town into Richard Burto? n this unconventional and witty history, award-winning writer and broadcaster Alice Loxton delves into Britain's past, exploring the country through eighteen notable figures at that most formative age – eighteen. From a young Elizabeth Tudor facing deadly intrigue at court, to Empress Matilda already changing the fate of nations, Eighteen invites readers to join an eclectic cast of young Britons across the nation and throughout its history. Filled with fascinating stories of royalty, explorers, writers and entertainers, Eighteen asks what lessons we can learn for modern Britain. 'Brilliantly original, wonderfully perceptive and full of rich insights . . . Loxton has confirmed her place as one of our most exciting and talented young historians' – James Holland, bestselling author and historian