This book defines what a folly is and shows that these architectural curiosities are to be found all over Britain.

Follies are architectural curiosities found all over the British Isles. Here, the author traces their history from the first prospect tower, through the golden era of the Georgian period, and up to the Second World War. Some are on hilltops or in remote places, while others stand almost unnoticed beside the roadside; some are inspiring monuments, erected to perpetuate the memory of their builders, while others express a deep religious conviction.

The numerous illustrations included here demonstrate the enormous variety of follies that can still be found throughout Britain.