On 4 August 1914 Great Britain declared war on Germany and Londoners greeted the announcement with patriotic enthusiasm. Most felt it would be 'over by Christmas' but no one could predict the huge changes the next four years would bring. Londoners got used to seeing people in uniform and with so many men in the Armed Forces there were many jobs to fill. Women were recruited in armaments, manufacturing, agriculture, transport and aid work and many children were also employed.

Londoners endured blackouts, air raids, bombed out buildings and rationing during the First World War. The psychological impact of bombing and hardships blurred the distinction between the home and battle fronts. Shortages increased food prices making things difficult for poor families and rationing began in February 1918. By the time the war ended London and Londoners would never be the same again.

This selection includes some of the astonishing photographs of war damage taken by Miles and Kaye and is part of over 1,400 images related to London in the First World War. To discover more, try searching or use the London Picture Map to focus on a location.