But some architectural masterpieces from the reign of Queen Victoria have sadly been lost to time.
Grand hotels, stunning civic buildings and ornate market places are among the greatest works of the Victorian era which have sadly been demolished over the years.
Some fell victim to fire or to bombs, while others succumbed to architectural vandalism, in many cases being replaced by monstrosities.
All of these buildings are mourned by those who remember them.
Several were torn down in the face of huge public opposition, and there have been campaigns to replace what should never have been lost in the first place.
These lost landmarks include a record-breaking ‘palace’ which was dismantled and moved at great expense, only to be consumed by fire; a famous tourist attraction, described as the London Eye of the North; and some truly magnificent railway stations.
How many of these remarkable buildings do you remember, and which do you miss most?
f you enjoyed this trip down memory lane, you might like this retro photo gallery of lost railway stations, taking you back to the golden age of train travel.
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13. Waverley Market and roof garden
The original Waverley Market on Princes Street, Edinburgh, was built in 1875 and boasted a picturesque roof garden. The market was demolished to make way for the shopping centre of the same name, which opened in the 1980s. The old roof garden can be seen here, with the North Bridge Hotel behind. | Getty Images Photo: Fox Photos
14. St Enoch Station Hotel
St Enoch Station Hotel, which opened in 1876, and the accompanying railway terminal were wonders of the Victorian age. Sadly, both the station and the hotel were demolished in 1977, with St Enoch Shopping Centre built on the site in the 80s. | Getty Images Photo: London Stereoscopic Company/Hulton Archive
15. Old Town Hall, Wigan
The Old Town Hall in Wigan was completed in 1867, and the Italianate-style building was a masterpiece of Victorian-era architecture. When the council moved its staff into the new town hall in 1990, the grand building was left empty and allowed to fall into disrepair Despite being Grade II-listed, it was eventually demolished in September 2013. | Submitted Photo: Submitted