Boathouses of Britain

REVIEW BY KK

Opening with a brutal account of fratricide between the sons of the pioneering physician who first described Down’s syndrome, this book about boathouses is unexpectedly gripping. The rest of the publication is not nearly so dramatic, but what follows is a brief, yet comprehensive and engaging, introduction to boathouses.

Starting with ‘shipsheds’ in the Roman period and ending with architecture-award-winning constructions in the modern era, Dawson takes us on a historical tour of boathouses across Britain. He uses both historical and archaeological evidence to discuss the various types of boathouse that have existed in Britain over the centuries: from Viking nausts to rowing clubs. In particular, he emphasises the important roles they played not only in maritime history but in society as a whole. From military control of British borders to leisurely sails down the Thames, there is something for everyone to be found in Dawson’s history.