TEESDALE’s first known tourist guide book, which appeared in print more than 200 years ago, has been revamped and republished by local historian and author Tony Seward.
A Tour in Teesdale started as a series of anonymous letters published in the York Herald, in 1803. It appeared in book form the following year when Hull-born solicitor Richard Garland put his name to the tome.
The pocket-sized book proved very popular, with seven editions being printed, each with minor updates and additions, the last appearing in 1852.
Now, Barnard Castle-based historian Mr Seward has published an updated version with 19 woodcuts and engravings that featured in various editions as well as the original fold-out map of Teesdale.
He said: “Garland’s book has stood the test of time. What I liked about it, is it’s quite a romantic look at Teesdale and retains all of its Georgian charm and freshness.
“Working with Tim Baitson we decided we would keep to the original print size, which was designed so it would fit into pockets.”
The updated version, which includes an introduction by Mr Seward, has been restructured as a series of itineraries starting with the approach to Teesdale from Catterick bridge.
As with the second edition the book, which was printed in 1813 following the publication of Sir Walter Scott’s Rokeby, it features large chunks of the romantic poem.
A Tour of Teesdale is available for sale at the Teesdale Mercury shop, the Olde Curiosity Shop and other outlets in Barnard Castle priced £9.99.
