Edward VII swept away the cobwebs of mid-Victorian style, Queen Mary had passion for all things small and the Queen Mother bought rather avant-garde art. In a forthcoming talk, Tim Knox, director of the Royal Collection, charts a century of regal taste

Belmont House, Kent The property of The Harris (Belmont) Trust

For a stylish city break full of mystery and history, head to 100 Princes Street, says Christine Faughlin

West Wycombe Park, Buckinghamshire, part II The seat of Sir Edward Dashwood, Bt A property of the National Trust In the second of two articles, John Goodall looks at the sources of inspiration behind the design for this magnificently idiosyncratic house

The summer has seen the publication of a wealth of new architectural books. John Goodall offers a round-up of some recent titles that have caught his eye

A medieval tower attached to a priory in a sleepy village inspired Paula Dormer to embark on a rewarding new life for herself in the French countryside