To The Sea by Train by Andrew Martin

THE TOP TEN SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLER

'Vividly conjures a lost age' — FINANCIAL TIMES

'Hugely entertaining' — EVENING STANDARD

'A feast of anecdotage' — SUNDAY TIMES

Throughout the twentieth century, the seaside service posters of Britain's railways promised fresh air and frivolity to millions of urban dwellers with the phrase: 'To the sea by train'.

A staple of modern British life, the seaside getaway was intertwined with the train, in whose compartments holidaymakers were shunted from smog-choked cities to sandy coves.

With his signature wit and anecdotal style, Andrew Martin captures an era defined by its railways: from the development of Brighton and Scarborough into pleasure resorts, and the introduction of bank holidays and two-day weekends, to the advent of cheap flights and the British coast's subsequent decline.

Humorous and evocative, To the Sea by Train takes a charming tour through Britain's most beloved pastime.

'A standalone classic' — COUNTRY LIFE

'Infectious' — SPECTATOR

• British History

ENG- English

• Paperback