Step into the past with the exquisite "Sheet 30 - Surrey," a masterpiece crafted by the renowned cartographer JG Bartholomew in 1901. This map, a part of Bartholomew's celebrated Half-Inch to the Mile series, is a testament to the artistry and precision of early 20th-century cartography. Bartholomew, a luminary in the field, was known for his innovative techniques and meticulous attention to detail. His maps were not just navigational tools but works of art that captured the imagination of cyclists, tourists, and geography enthusiasts alike.
The map's design is a visual delight, employing a subtle gradation of color bands to represent landscape relief. This innovative approach provides a clear and attractive depiction of the region's physical geography, making it easy to discern the varying elevations and natural features. The map covers an expansive area, stretching 18 miles from north to south and 26 miles from west to east, and offers a comprehensive view of Surrey and its surroundings. The use of color to indicate different heights adds a layer of depth and realism, bringing the landscape to life in a way that few maps of the era could achieve.
Rich in historical and geographical detail, this map showcases the intricate network of roads and railways that crisscross Surrey, reflecting the region's significance as a hub of transportation and commerce. The River Thames, with its iconic meandering course, is prominently featured, along with other notable rivers such as the Wey and Mole. Natural landmarks like the North Downs, Surrey Hills, and Box Hill are meticulously rendered, offering a glimpse into the region's diverse topography. The map also highlights major parks and natural areas, including Richmond Park, Wimbledon Common, and Epsom Downs, which have long been cherished for their beauty and recreational value.
Historic landmarks abound on this map, providing a fascinating window into Surrey's rich heritage. Windsor Castle, Hampton Court Palace, and Guildford Castle are just a few of the iconic sites that grace its expanse. These landmarks, steeped in history, offer a connection to the past and a sense of continuity that is both inspiring and humbling. The map also includes other notable features such as Wisley Gardens, Brookwood Cemetery, and Epsom Racecourse, each with its own unique story to tell.
The towns and cities depicted on this map are a testament to Surrey's vibrant and dynamic character. From the bustling streets of Guildford and Woking to the picturesque charm of Dorking and Farnham, each settlement is meticulously plotted, reflecting the region's diverse and thriving communities. The map also extends into adjacent counties, offering glimpses of Windsor in Berkshire, Aldershot in Hampshire, and Horsham in West Sussex. This comprehensive coverage makes "Sheet 30 - Surrey" not just a map, but a journey through time and space, capturing the essence of a region that has played a pivotal role in the history and development of England.
Cities and towns on this map
Notable Features & Landmarks
- Rivers:
- Thames River
- Wey River
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Mole River
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Parks and natural areas:
- Richmond Park
- Wimbledon Common
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Epsom Downs
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Historic landmarks:
- Windsor Castle (visible in the top left corner)
- Hampton Court Palace
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Guildford Castle
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Transportation:
- Extensive railway network
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Major roads and highways
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Landscape features:
- North Downs
- Surrey Hills
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Box Hill
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Other notable features:
- Wisley Gardens
- Brookwood Cemetery
- Woking Golf Club
- Epsom Racecourse
Historical and design context
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Name of the map: Sheet 30 - Surrey
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Scale: Half-inch to the mile (1:126,720)
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Creator: JG Bartholomew
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Date of creation: 1901
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Publisher: Bartholomew's
- Extra notes:
- The map is clear, attractive, and colorful.
- Popular with cyclists and tourists.
- Became Bartholomew's flagship series.
- Distinctive for using different layers of color to represent landscape relief.
- Utilizes a subtle and innovative gradation of color bands to show land at different heights.
- Based on a reduced Ordnance Survey map from the same period.
- Design and style:
- Landscape map covering 18 miles from north to south and 26 miles from west to east.
- Uses color gradation to depict landscape relief, making it visually appealing and easy to interpret.
- Historical significance:
- Reflects the early 20th-century interest in detailed and accessible maps for recreational use.
- Demonstrates the advancements in cartographic techniques and printing technology of the time.
- Regions shown:
- Primarily Surrey, with parts of adjacent counties visible.
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 every size, but I always recommend going for a larger size if you have space. That way you can easily make out all of the details.
This map looks amazing at sizes all the way up to 70in (180cm). If you are looking for a larger map, please get in touch.
Please note: the labels on this map are hard to read if you order a map that is 20in (50cm) or smaller. The map is still very attractive, but if you would like to read the map easily, please buy a larger size.
The model in the listing images is holding the 18x24in (45x60cm) 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 collection of the best old maps to see if something else catches your eye.
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.