A Pilgrim’s Guide to Sacred London

John Michell & Jason Goodwin Argonaut Books 2017 Pb, £7.99, 187pp, illus, ind, ISBN 9780957254039

This is the second of a delightful series of guidebooks for antiquarian, spiritual and New Age pilgrims published by the historian Jason Goodwin and Isaac Goodwin (the son and grandson of the late John Michell). What sets them apart from the usual tourist fare is their erudite approach to the ‘sacred landscape’ that can still be found beneath or behind the everyday appearances of places. They have built upon John’s writing and notes in a way that is edifying and satisfying, and through which one can discern John’s voice as though he were your personal guide. This pocket-sized, handsomely printed book identifies four main walking itineraries – Westminster, the Tower, Aldgate and the Thames (and its historical crossings) – each furnished with priceless information. There is a fascinating list of ‘diversions’ from these routes to notable statues, cemeteries, shrines and museums; all supplemented with an essential history of the city from the time of King Brutus the Trojan.