Why Do Shepherds Need a Bush?

Book excerpt: The names of the 300 or so London underground stations are part of the everyday landscape for the Londoners, who strap-hang their way across the capital. We hardly ever question their meanings or origins - yet these well-known names are linked with fascinating stories of bygone times. Until the mid-19th century, London was almost unbelievably rural, with names belonging to a countryside we could never recognise or imagine today. Who in the twenty-first century, thinks of a real flesh-and-blood shepherd lolling back on a specially-trimmed hawthorn bush, when travelling through Shepherd's Bush underground station? And who, travelling through Totteridge and Whetstone on the Northern Line, imagines medieval soldiers sharpening their swords and daggers at the aptly named Whetstone, just before engaging in the appallingly bloody battle of Barnet? David Hilliam not only uncovers the little-known history behind the station stops below ground, but also explores the eccentric etymology of some of London's landmarks from Acton to Wimbledon, offering trivia boxes that will delight the visitor and Londoner alike. This entertaining book will ensure that you will never view your normal journey to work in the same way again.