In the Victorian era London finally achieves its destiny as the heart of a world empire, but Peter Ackroyd and historical figures expose the city's rotten underbelly.

Historical figures recall the city's drama of crime and punishment, and its unquenchable thirst for spectacle, drink and sex.

From Boudicca's torching of the city to the Blitz raids, Ackroyd examines how London survives fire.