Born in 1802 in Elgin, James Grant first established himself as a reporter and then as a leading newspaper editor in Victorian London, heading the Morning Chronicle for two decades before moving on to the Christian Standard. His 1839 Travels in Town was designed as a companion piece to his earlier reflections on London, The Great Metropolis (1838) and Sketches in London (1838). This two-volume work reflects Grant's enthusiasm for 'this modern Babylon' and his lively interest in the intricacies of everyday life there. Volume 1 focuses on central London, observing major streets (including Downing Street) and the British Museum. Interweaving general descriptions with specific local information, Grant even provides his readers with details of the famous museum reading room and how to access its treasures.