Discover Luton in 50 Buildings with new book

Paul Rabbitts explores how the area’s buildings and landmarks, both old and new, reflect its long and fascinating journey, with each structure having its own unique story to tell.

Among the places featured are some of the town’s historic churches, inns and residences, the town hall and the Kenilworth Road football ground, Luton Central Mosque, the expanding airport and the stately home of Luton Hoo.

Paul said: “I was inspired to write the book for a number of reasons.

“ I’m not a Lutonian but was born and brought up in the rural North East. I always associated Luton with its airport and when I moved south to live in Leighton Buzzard, many used to say such negative things about Luton.

“For many years I worked in Middlesbrough and similar views were expressed here yet it had many positive attributes including its municipal, industrial and architectural heritage - and I can say the same for Luton.

“I loved doing this book and discovering the diamonds that there are and especially the former hat factories - these are simply stunning. The area around Guildford Street is divine. I also especially liked Wardown Park and the museum. Beautiful just beautiful.”

He added: “The book celebrates many of these buildings - from the oldest to the most modern. Our towns are ever evolving and none more so than Luton.”

Paul’s work is part of a series for Amberley Publishing and is available for £14.99.