Country cottages have an almost universal appeal. They are probably the most popular of all building types. Yet how well do we know what we like? How much is understood about their origins, nature, use & form? The myths & misapprehensions about cottages are equalled only by the extraordinary variety of different ways in which they were built. This book will aid the recognition, understanding & historical interpretation of the wealth of surviving cottages in England & Wales. Their changing forms, quality & methods of building are explained & illustrated, along with the great range of regional differences. Architectural aspects are brought into touch with social & economic ones, such as the identity, motives & practices of people who once provided & occupied cottages.