Delve into the past with this antique map of Northumberland, meticulously crafted by Samuel Lewis in 1844. Steeped in history, this piece offers an unparalleled look at the county during a time of significant social, economic, and geographic change. Embodying both the spirit of its era and the timeless beauty of cartography, the map stands as a testament to the rich history of Northumberland, a region marked by settlements that date back to the Roman era.
Given its age, the map features some settlements under earlier names, adding an extra layer of excitement for the keen historian. Some modern cities may not be present, reflecting the evolving landscape and the region's dynamic growth over time. With its crisp lines and intricate detailing, this 1844 map isn't just a snapshot of the past—it's a piece of art and a historical document combined.
Notable Settlements:
- Newcastle upon Tyne (1080): Established as a fort and bridge by the Romans and later turned into a major settlement by the Normans, today it's Northumberland's most populous city.
- Blyth (12th century): Originating as a port town, Blyth has evolved into a significant commercial hub known for its vibrant harbour.
- Cramlington (1135): Originally a small village with an agricultural economy, Cramlington is now a bustling town known for its industries.
- Ashington (1847): Known for its coal mining heritage, Ashington was referred to as "the world's largest coal-mining village."
- Bedlington (early 12th century): Noted for its ironworks and nail making industry in the 19th century, it was a significant industrial town.
- Berwick-upon-Tweed (c. 1018): The northernmost town in England, known for its turbulent history with alternating Scottish and English rule.
- Hexham (AD 674): Renowned for Hexham Abbey, it's one of the oldest surviving Christian foundations in Britain.
- Prudhoe (1150): Known for Prudhoe Castle, a fine example of a Norman fortification.
- Morpeth (1199): A historic market town, known for its unique blend of heritage and beauty.
- Amble (1200s): Once a major seaport, Amble is now a popular holiday town known for its marina and beautiful beaches.
- Alnwick (c. 600 AD): Famous for Alnwick Castle, a filming location for the Harry Potter series.
- Ponteland (13th century): Known for its beautiful rural landscapes and Ponteland Castle.
- Haltwhistle (1200s): Claimed to be the geographic center of Britain and is close to the Roman Hadrian's Wall.
- Bellingham (early 13th century): Gateway to the Northumberland National Park, it's known for its natural beauty.
- Wylam (12th century): Birthplace of George Stephenson, a pioneering railway engineer.
- Corbridge (AD 786): Known for its Roman archaeological site, the Corbridge Roman Town.
- Allendale Town (1700s): Celebrated for the Allendale Tar Bar'l, a unique New Year's Eve tradition.
- Seaton Delaval (11th century): Home to the architecturally impressive Seaton Delaval Hall.
- Alnmouth (1150): Known for its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant harbour scene.
- Warkworth (8th century): A charming village dominated by the medieval Warkworth Castle.
- Rothbury (8th century): Known for its beautiful landscapes and as a gateway to Northumberland National Park.
- Bamburgh (c. 420): Known for the imposing Bamburgh Castle and beautiful beaches.
- Wooler (1100s): A picturesque market town, it's the gateway to the Cheviot Hills.
- Felton (12th century): Home to a thriving arts and crafts scene, located near the stunning Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
- Otterburn (1086): Known for the Battle of Otterburn that occurred in 1388.
- Longhoughton (1100s): Features beautiful coastlines and access to some of the best beaches in Northumberland.
- Elsdon (12th century): Home to a preserved medieval fortified vicarage and an 11th-century motte-and-bailey castle.
- Bardon Mill (1820s): Located close to Vindolanda, one of Europe's most important Roman archaeological sites.
- Heddon-on-the-Wall (early 13th century): Known for its section of the Roman Hadrian's Wall.
- Lynemouth (1800s): Once a coal mining village, it's now known for its power station.
Natural Attractions:
- Northumberland National Park: Offering some of the most pristine landscapes in the UK.
- Cheviot Hills: Rolling hills marking the border between England and Scotland.
- Hadrian's Wall: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it's one of Britain's most significant remnants of the Roman period.
- Northumberland Coast AONB: Known for its outstanding natural beauty, featuring dunes, cliffs, and sandy beaches.
Historical Events (1800-1850):
- 1804-1806: The construction of the Union Chain Bridge, the first vehicular suspension bridge in the world.
- 1825: The opening of the Stanhope and Tyne Railroad, enhancing the coal transportation system.
- 1838: The establishment of the Newcastle and Carlisle Railway, promoting trade and travel.
- 1844: The year this map was created, marking a period of significant geographic change and development in Northumberland.
Please double check the images to make sure that a specific town or place is shown on this map. You can also get in touch and ask us to check the map for you.
This map looks great at all sizes: 8x10in (20.5x25.5cm), 12x16in (30.5x41cm), 18x24in (45.5x61cm), 16x20in (40.5x51cm), 24x36in (61x91.5cm), 30x40in (76x101.5cm) and 37x50in (94x127cm), but
it looks even better when printed large.
I can create beautiful, large prints of this map up to 50in (127cm). Please get in touch if you're looking for
larger, customised or different framing options.
The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45.5x61cm) version of this map.
The fifth listing image shows an example of my map personalisation service.
If you’re looking for something slightly different, check out my main collection of UK and Ireland maps.
Please contact me to check if a certain location, landmark or feature is shown on this map.
This would make a wonderful birthday, Christmas, Father's Day, work leaving, anniversary or housewarming gift for someone from the areas covered by this map.
This map is available as a giclée print on acid free archival matte paper, or you can buy it framed. The frame is a nice, simple black frame that suits most aesthetics. Please get in touch if you'd like a different frame colour or material. My frames are glazed with super-clear museum-grade acrylic (perspex/acrylite), which is significantly less reflective than glass, safer, and will always arrive in perfect condition.