This is the 1963 first edition of Follies, published by Chatto and Windus in association with National Benzole Ltd. This was the first book of the series designed by National Benzole to ‘inspire’ the driver to venture out and explore Britain. Cynics might be forgiven for believing it a ploy to sell more of their petrol but either way they produced a beautiful series of these small books.

A folly was a building or other designed and built to please the whimsical nature of its owner. A preserve of the wealthy, they varied in size and pomposity and their purpose beyond humouring the owner was to shock the stranger who came upon them. This then, is not a complete compilation of all of the known follies but there are plenty to go at nonetheless.

Many of those included are on public land with some on private grounds made accessible with permission. The book is beautifully illustrated with a combination of watercolours and ink drawings by Paul Sharp along with a ‘by county’ guide to other follies.

There is a distinct nostalgic charm about this book, both in its style and the quirky extravagances of those who designed these remarkable structures. Reading the stories behind them is a reminder of a generation now, sadly, long gone. For those of you in the UK it’s worth looking up any remaining and for those further afield, a nice guide to early 20th century British history.

See also National Benzole Book of Castles