The steam locomotive is one of Britain's greatest and most beautiful inventions and generations have marvelled at the power conveyed in its iron form. But the mystical qualities of smoke and pure white steam give life to the locomotive and through the genius of design, it appears to blend magically with the scenery through which it passes. Although Britain s golden age of steam ended in 1968, these living machines continue to enthral people of all ages. Packed with stunning colour and rare black-and -white photographs, The Beauty of Steam portrays real working steam and beautifully preserved locomotives pushing across the grand landscapes of Britain.