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This book is for anyone who wants to celebrate the impact women have had – and continue to have – on London’s streetscape, heritage and culture.

It was inspired through my association with The Women’s Library when it reopened in 2002 at the Wash House, Old Castle Street in Whitechapel. Planning a series of walks with its dedicated staff and enjoying the exhibitions opened my eyes to the amazing women who have shaped society and strived for equality. Through the tours, I met academics and students, feminists and family researchers, further inspiring me to discover more, and I cannot thank them enough for sharing with me their knowledge and passion.

The book includes a section titled ‘Women’s London on Foot’, a series of self-guided walks and features, profiling specific women for whom sites in London provide an opportunity to ‘walk in their footsteps’. You will find many familiar names, but also those that deserve greater recognition.

You will also ‘meet’ the women who broke into the male bastions of science, medicine and the military, as well as visit the museums celebrating their achievements. The creative sphere – art, literature, fashion, dance and theatre – has wonderful women to celebrate, and the Votes for Women campaign links to many London sites.

The book also invites you to view the impact of women on London’s streetscape, and the timeline of British Female Firsts shows clearly that barriers are still being broken, well into the 21st century.

I recognize this book contains my personal selection of women but hope that you enjoy my choices; while many may be familiar, you will be introduced to others you’ve not yet encountered. They are found throughout London, encouraging exploration of new neighbourhoods and discovering your own favourites. With London’s female streetscape continuing to change, I look forward to future discoveries too!

Rachel