Football Grounds of London

The allure of London's football grounds extends beyond the game itself, encompassing the memories, the architecture, and the unique sense of place these old stadiums offer. Football Grounds of London, published in 2005, is a loving tribute to every football ground inside the M25, whether they’re still standing, long gone, or living on in the bittersweet nostalgia of black-and-white photos. Alex White’s introduction sets the tone, recalling his early adventures visiting lost London grounds, the thrill of Fulham’s return to Craven Cottage, and the heartbreak of seeing stadiums like Champion Hill and Plough Lane disappear under bulldozers and new housing. It’s not just a book about Premier League palaces but about every corner of London where football happened—from the intimidating old Den to suburban patches of grass where non-league clubs fought for glory. 
What makes the book even more special is Bob Lilliman’s archive of photographs. He’s spent decades travelling, camera in hand, capturing the essence of these venues—sometimes just before they vanished forever. The images, mostly in black and white, evoke a raw honesty and a sense of time passing, showing terraced stands, makeshift dugouts, and crumbling turnstiles. Lilliman’s story is woven throughout the book too: a convert from rugby, he became obsessed with documenting football’s forgotten cathedrals, eventually amassing thousands of images and visiting over 2,000 grounds across Britain. His perspective is unique; he’s seen the rise and fall of so many clubs and their homes, and his lens rarely misses the details—the muddy goalmouths, the faded signage, the empty terraces after the crowds have gone. 
The book fully embraces the darker aspects of football's evolution. White writes about the changes forced on stadiums after disasters like Hillsborough and Valley Parade, the move to all-seater grounds, and the loss of the standing experience that so many fans cherished. Yet, the book is ultimately a celebration of the supporters who kept their clubs alive, of the communities that grew up around these grounds, and of the quirky, sometimes ramshackle beauty of London football’s hidden gems. Every entry—whether about Wembley or a little-known non-league pitch—receives the same attention and detail, reflecting the authors’ belief that every ground matters.
Ultimately, Football Grounds of London serves as more than just a guide; it serves as a timeless record. It captures a city that’s constantly changing, yet somehow always the same when it comes to its love for football. For anyone who’s stood on the terraces, cheered in the rain, or mourned a ground that’s now a supermarket car park, this book is a must. It’s a reminder that football isn’t just about the big matches or the famous players—it’s about place, memory, and the moments that happen when the whistle blows and the game begins.  
ROYAL MAIL TRACKED 48 (PAID)
Publisher: Tempus Publishing Limited
Published: 1999
Price: £19.99 
Softcover: 224 pages
Lavishly illustrated
This book is in excellent condition.