This book delivers a rather vague definition of the architectural curiosity, the folly. That is because there is no one definition. A folly is really just a departure from the general norm of architecture and comes in many forms, from sham castles to houses and towers to cottages. Their one common factor is that they were built to be looked at and enjoyed, a function that they all still serve today. This book traces the complete history of follies, from the first prospect tower, through the golden era of the first half of the eighteenth century and up to to WWII. Its also filled with numerous excellent vintage photographs which demonstrate the enormous variety of follies that can still be found throughout England today. This book is sure to intrigue any architectural buff, cultural enthusiast, and armchair adventurer.