This is a thematic book with a loosely chronological structure. An introductory chapter explains why garden restoration has become increasingly important and popular. Chapters then look at how modern technology has helped garden restoration; why certain gardens need restoring because their style is no longer fashionable or they have lost their original identity through neglect; and the need to restore gardens created by important designers or plantsmen, or gardens that have been destroyed or neglected because of war. A final chapter shows why major garden restorations contribute to gardening history. There is also a gazetteer of the gardens, indicating which ones can be visited by the public.