Initially this book does not seem like a walking guide, being a heavy hardback with glossy pages and without any derogatory connotations, more like a coffee table book, and far too substantial to carry around as a guide on a walk. On reading the introduction it becomes clear the nine suggested walks covered are used as a means of examining the history and architecture of the legal quarter of London without following the usual chronological pattern. The new edition is justified by developments such as the Supreme Court opening in 2009 and many of the buildings mentioned such as Temple Bar having been renovated since 2000. Much of the text concentrates on the past and traditions, but it is also a snapshot of the present which is likely to see further changes in the legal profession over the next decade and beyond.

Of the nine walks, seven start from underground stations and two at street level making them practical and accessible from stations. The first walk is circular and the eighth almost circular, so easy to follow. A great deal of history is packed in without being boring. The author frequently digresses with snippets of fascinating information, such as literary connections to Thackeray and Dickens, to more recent items including shots of filming the Da Vinci Code. The routes of the walks are in the generous margins beside the text. The maps are clearly numbered with each place of interest and straightforward to follow.

The only real criticism of the book would be a lack of a pocket in the front or back cover with a fold up map which could be carried around on the walks with the simple step by step instructions and plans at the start of each walk. None of the walks are particularly long or arduous but some walkers unfamiliar with the areas would probably also prefer an indication of how long the walks are likely to take or at least distances covered, although in fairness much will depend on whether walkers are side tracked to visit places such as Prince Henry's room with the Samuel Pepys Society Museum, if open. A richly visual book lavishly illustrated with some beautiful colour photographs of interiors not always available to public view it is a delight to dip into. Photographs of statues above eye level on buildings provides a practical reminder of what to look for along with less likely to be seen pictures such as Ede and Ravenscroft, the oldest bespoke tailors in the world busy making barristers wigs. The bibliography is an unexpectedly useful bonus including journals and pamphlets, as well as books, and the index is particularly good and includes references to illustrations.

There is an engagingly wistful tone of nostalgia creating a very pleasurable read. A beautiful book which would make a sumptuous gift for anyone interested in finding out more about the history of law and legal buildings in London and keen to experience the walks.