| Title | Artist | Year | Railway | Description |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Aberdeen: Brig o’ Balgowrie | Algernon Talmage. R.A. | LMS | ||
| Barmouth, North Wales – For Mountain, Sand & Sea | Harry Riley | 1953 | BR | Poster produced for British Railways (BR) to promote rail travel to Barmouth, Gwynedd, North Wales. The poster shows a panoramic view of the mountains, sand and sea of the resort town. |
| Barmouth, North Wales – For Mountain, Sand & Sea | Harry Riley | 1956 | BR | |
| Bournemouth | ||||
| British Industries: Cotton | Caley Robinson. A.R.A. | LMS | ||
| Brixham | Gyrth Russell | 1923-1947 | GWR | View of harbour and town. Original artwork dimensions 1017 x 1268mm. |
| Bude | Herbert Alker Tripp (1883 – 1954) | 1947 | SR | Coloured lithograph depicting a couple with a small dog, seated on the edge of a cliff overlooking a beach. Reference AD 5555 2000/1947. Format: double royal. Dimensions: 40 x 25 inches, 101.6 cm x 63.5 cm. |
| Burham-on-Sea | ||||
| The Cambrian Coast, The Land of Romance | S. C. Rowles | 1927 | GWR | Watercolour. It depicts a Welsh warrior in a breastplate and red cape, standing on the edge of a cliff, holding out his left arm to indicate the coast below. In the background are two castles, and in the sky a Celtic warrior in a chariot, pulled by two horses. |
| Carlise | Maurice Greiffenhagen. R.A. | LMS | A heroic romantic figure in armour mounted on a horse and holding the red and white flag. | |
| Compton Castle, Paignton, Devon. | Jack Merriott (1901-1968) | British Railways Western Region | An illustration of several people walking through the castle grounds with trees in the background. | |
| Cornwall | Leonard Cusden | c 1937 | GWR | |
| Cornwall | Frank Sherwin | 1946 | Great Western Railway | Painting, gouache on board. Depicts a harbour with two fishing boats, one with a red sail raised, and a rowing boat. Beyond is a sea wall, with the houses of the port on the hillside in the background. |
| Cornwall – Travel by Train | Jack Merriott (1901-1968) | c 1955 | British Railways | |
| Stay at Dartmouth, Devons Beauty Spoter by | Freda Lingstrom (1893-1989) | GWR | ||
| Devon | Leonard Cusden | c 1937 | GWR | |
| Glorious Devon | Widgery, F. J. (Frederick John) | GWR | Poster produced for Great Western Railway (GWR) to promote rail travel to Devon. The poster shows a striking panoramic view of the bare upland area of granite in Dartmoor, Devon, with the rocky summits or tors common in the area. The area shown here is Little Hound Tor and Hey-Tor. Artwork by Frederick John Widgery (1861-1942), who studied at Exeter School of Art and in Antwerp and Bushey. He painted landscapes and coastal scenes in oil and watercolour and designed posters for GWR. Dimensions: 992 mm x 1267 mm. | |
| Go Great Western to Cornwall | ||||
| GWR Air Services | Great Western Railway | Original artwork produced for a Great Western Railway (GWR) Air Services poster to promote the company’s air services between Plymouth Airport, Haldon Aerodrome, Cardiff Airport and Birmingham Airport with links to Teignmouth and Torquay. | ||
| Ilkley – Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales | Frank Sherwin | 1957 | British Railways (North Eastern Region) | Coloured lithograph depicting bathers in Ilkley Lido, with the town and moor in the background. |
| The Isles of Scilly – For Sunshine and Natural Beauty | John S. Smith (1921–2010) | 1961 | British Railways | |
| Looe | S. C. Rowles | GWR | Watercolour. 1927. It depicts a Welsh warrior in a breastplate and red cape, standing on the edge of a cliff, holding out his left arm to indicate the coast below. In the background are two castles, and in the sky a Celtic warrior in a chariot, pulled by two horses. | |
| Looe | S. C. Rowles | GWR | Watercolour, original artwork for railway poster, Great Western Railway, Looe, South Cornwall for ideal homes and holidays by S.C. Rowles, 1935, depicts harbour. | |
| Morecambe and Heysham | Frank Sherwin | c. 1935 | London Midland & Scottish Railway | Coloured lithograph depicting the open air lido swimming baths, with the pier and Morecambe bay beyond. Text: The new luxury swimming pool. Britain’s most modern and progressive resort. Express services and cheap tickets by LMS. Official holiday guide from Advertising Manager, Town Hall, Morecambe. |
| Newquay – On the Cornish Coast | Harry Riley (1895 – 1966) | 1948 | British Railways | |
| Newquay – On the Coast Of Cornwall | Jack Merriott (1901-1968) | 1950 | British Railways | |
| Nottingham Castle: The Centre of Medieval England | Arnesby Brown. R.A. | LMS | ||
| North Cornwall | Norman Wilkinson | SR | Pentire Head, Padstow/ | |
| Northern Island: Dunluce Castle | Julius Olsson. R.A. | LMS | ||
| Paignton | Charles Pears | 1938 | GWR | Coloured lithograph depicting a young woman in a pink one-piece swimsuit standing on the sea wall waving a red towel, with people sitting in deckchairs behind, holidaymakers on the beach and cliffs and the sea in the background. Reference P166. Printed by Stafford & C Ltd, Netherfield, Nottingham. Format quad royal. Dimensions: 1016 mm x 1270 mm. |
| Paignton – South Devon – The Family Resort of Picturesque Torbay | Douglas Lionel Mays (1900–1991) | c 1958 | British Railways | Depicts a young blonde woman in a blue swimsuit lying on a red rock, looking out to sea. Beneath her is the beach with lapping waves, and red cliffs with grass and trees at the top. Beyond are the breakwater, harbour, town and Devon hills. Signed by the artist at the bottom right. Unframed. Original artwork for British Railways (Western Region) poster Paignton, South Devon, the family resort of picturesque Torbay, one of the Travel by Train series. |
| Penzance – For the Lizard and Land’s End Peninsulas | Jack Merriott (1901–1968) | _ | British Railways | View of Penzance with St Michael’s Mount in the background. |
| Penzance – Gateway to West Cornwall | Harry Riley (1895 – 1966) | 1952 | British Railways | |
| Penzance – The Centre for West Cornwall | Harry Riley (1895 – 1966) | 1955 | British Railways | |
| Penzance – The Ideal Holiday Centre | S. C. Rowles | GWR | Poster, Great Western Railway, Penzance, The Ideal Holiday Centre by S C Rowles, about 1929. Coloured lithograph depicting the view looking down over Newlyn harbour, along the beach towards the town of Penzance. There are fishing boats, a pleasure steamer in the harbour, and bathers on the beach—title text above the image. Accompanying text below reads “Warm in winter, cool in summer. Good fishing, hunting, golf and tennis. For full particulars and guide book write Town Clerk’s office, Penzance”. Text in the bottom margin reads “Paddington Station, London W2” at left and “James Milne, General Manager” on a pasted-on overprint at right. Format: double royal. | |
| The Enchanting River Dart | Cecil King | 1961 | British Railways – Western Region | |
| Redcar – North Yorkshire’s Family Resort | Frank Sherwin | 1958 | British Railways (North Eastern Region) | Coloured lithograph depicting a beach scene, with the sea wall, holidaymakers on the sands, fishing boats, a fair and children riding donkeys. |
| Rothesay – Isle of Bute | Frank Sherwin | 1950 | British Railways | Coloured lithograph depicting Rothesay harbour, with a pleasure steamer approaching the pier. Beyond is the beach and town. |
| See the West Country from the Train | Eric Hesketh Hubbard | SR | Poster produced for the Southern Railway (SR) to promote rail travel to Cornwall. The poster shows a steam locomotive approaching a girder bridge across the River Camel near Padstow, with hills and fields in the background. Artwork by Eric Hesketh Hubbard (1892-1957), who studied art at Heatherleys, Croydon School of Art and Chelsea Polytechnic. He was a member of the Cheltenham Group, the Society of Graver Printers, the Colour Woodcut Society and New Forest Group of Painters, and he published a number of books. In addition to painting and etching, he also designed furniture. Original artwork dimensions: 1016mm x 1270mm. | |
| Speed | Sir Bertram McKennal. R.A. | LMS | ||
| South Devon | Frank Newbould | GWR / SR | Poster produced by Great Western Railway (GWR) and Southern Railway (SR) to promote rail travel to South Devon. The poster shows a landscape view of the cliffs, beach and sea. Artwork by Frank Newbould (1887-1951), who studied at Bradford College of Art and joined the War Office in 1942. He also designed posters for the Orient Line and Belgian Railways. | |
| Torquay – The English Riviera | – | 1927 | Great Western Railway | Depicts a view through palm trees in a seafront garden, with holidaymakers strolling on a promenade and the bay and beach of Tor Abbey Sands in the background. Printed by Philip Reid, Poster Expert & Printer, 47 Fleet Street, London, EC4. Format double royal. |
| Torquay | Leonard Richmond | 1947 | Great Western Railway | With view of the sea looking down on the sea. |
| Torquay in Glorious Devon | Frank A. A. Wootton (1914-1998) | c 1950s | British Railways | Painting, oil on canvas, “Torquay in Glorious Devon” by Frank Wootton, 1950. Depicts the inner harbour at Torquay with a white yacht in the left foreground. At right are small rowing boats and a breakwater. Beyond is the town, rising green hills at right. On the left is Torquay Pavilion. |
| Go to Torquay, Devon – Queen of the English Riviera | Jack Merriott (1901-1968) | 1958 | British Railways (Western Region) | View of promenade and cliffs, printed by The Baynard Press, London. Format: double royal. Dimensions: 40 x 25 inches, 1016 x 635mm. |
| This England of Ours – Historic Totnes – Devon | Claude Buckle | 1933 | Great Western Railway | Coloured lithograph, depicting a street scene, looking up Fore Street to Eastgate in Totnes, Devon. |
| Windsor | Frank Sherwin | 1954 | British Railways (Western Region) | Painting, gouache on board. Depicts the view looking across the River Thames to Windsor Castle. In the foreground is a motor launch, with a woman and boy seated on the river bank. |
| Worcestershire | Frank Sherwin | 1950 | British Railways (Western Region) | Painting, gouache on board. Depicts the view looking down on a village green surrounded by houses, with a stone cross in the foreground and hills beyond. Signed by the artist at bottom left. Original artwork for poster, one of the ‘Travel by Rail’ series. |
| Yorkshire Dales | Frank Sherwin | 1952 | British Railways (North Eastern Region) | Coloured lithograph depicting the scene looking across a river valley to a church and a small village, with hills beyond. Accompanying text reads “A land of narrow valleys and attractive villages, of heather-covered hills and moors, of ancient abbeys and castles, the principal dales are readily accessible by rail and form a holiday paradise for walkers, anglers and all who prefer the quieter place. Train services and fares from British Railways stations, offices and agencies” |
Double Royal – 25″ x 40″
Quad Royal – 40″ x 50″
Gyrth Russell
Gyrth Russell (1892–1970) was a distinguished marine artist, etcher, and writer, whose work captured the beauty and drama of the sea. Born in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Russell’s artistic journey began with a passion for the ocean and its ever-changing moods.
Russell’s artistic talents flourished through his studies in America and Paris, where he immersed himself in the vibrant artistic community of the time. From 1912 to 1914, he honed his skills at the Académie Julian and the Atelier Colarossi, refining his technique and developing his unique artistic voice.
During World War I, Russell’s artistic prowess took on a new dimension as he served as an Official War Artist for the Canadian government. His poignant depictions of wartime scenes captured the courage and sacrifice of those on the front lines, earning him widespread acclaim.
Following the war, Russell’s work continued to garner attention, with his participation in the Canadian War Memorial Exhibition in London in 1919 marking a significant milestone in his career. He went on to exhibit in numerous group shows, including at prestigious institutions such as the Royal Institute (RI), Royal Society of British Artists (RBA), Society of Marine Artists (SEA), Society of Women Artists (SWA), and Royal Birmingham Society of Artists (RBC).
In addition to his accomplishments as a visual artist, Russell was also a prolific writer, penning several books that showcased his love for his native land, including the acclaimed “Unknown Devon” published in 1927.
Throughout his life, Russell remained deeply connected to his roots, with exhibitions of his work held at prominent galleries such as the Howard Roberts Gallery in Cardiff. He passed away in Penarth in 1970, leaving behind a rich legacy of art and literature that continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world.
Harry Arthur Riley
Cecil Riley (1895–1968) was a multifaceted British artist renowned for his versatility and captivating talent across various mediums. Born in London, Riley’s artistic journey began under the guidance of Walter Bayes at Bolt Court, where he honed his skills from 1910 to 1915. Later, he furthered his education at St Martin’s School of Art, solidifying his commitment to his craft.
Throughout his illustrious career, Riley exhibited his work at prestigious institutions, including the Royal Academy, the Royal Society of British Artists, the Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours, and the Royal Institute of Oil Painters. In 1939, his exceptional contributions to the art world were recognised when he was elected as a member of the esteemed Royal Institute.
Beyond his achievements as a painter, Riley’s dynamic talents extended to commercial art, cartooning, and lecturing. He captivated audiences with his briskly executed watercolours, as noted by Percy V Bradshaw in his book “Water-colour: A Truly English Art.” Riley’s ability to complete an oil portrait and frame it within a mere four minutes astonished spectators, highlighting his remarkable skill and versatility.
A vibrant presence in London’s artistic circles, Riley was an active member of esteemed clubs such as the London Sketch Club, Chelsea Arts Club, and Savage Club. His passion for sharing knowledge led him to tutor aspiring artists with Galleon Painting Holidays and engage with the Concert Artistes’ Association.
Cecil Riley’s legacy continues to inspire artists worldwide, his dedication to artistic expression and mastery resonating through his timeless creations.
Frank Sherwin
Frank Sherwin (1896–1986) was a distinguished painter renowned for his captivating works in oil and watercolour, whose artistic journey unfolded against the backdrop of his hometown, Derby. Sherwin’s artistic talents were cultivated at the School of Art in Derby, where he received formal training and developed a deep appreciation for the craft.
Seeking further enrichment, Sherwin pursued studies at Heatherley’s Art School under the tutelage of Henry Massey in 1920, expanding his skills and refining his artistic vision. His commitment to excellence and dedication to his craft earned him recognition as a rather military figure in the art world.
In 1950, Sherwin achieved a significant milestone in his career when he was elected as a member of the prestigious Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours (RI), followed by his membership in the Royal Society of Marine Artists (RSMA) in 1967. His artistic prowess was further validated through exhibitions at esteemed institutions such as the Royal Academy (RA), where his works were showcased alongside those of his contemporaries.
The public gallery in Derby proudly held Sherwin’s work, serving as a testament to his enduring connection to his roots. His art was widely appreciated and reproduced by esteemed publishers including Frost & Reed Ltd, British Railways, and the Medici Society, ensuring that his creations reached a broader audience.
Sherwin’s passion for art extended beyond his own practice, as evidenced by his contributions as a writer for The Artist magazine, where he shared his insights and expertise with fellow enthusiasts. He made his home in Cookham, Berkshire, where he continued to draw inspiration from his surroundings and create timeless works of art.
Frank Sherwin’s legacy as a prolific painter and respected member of the artistic community endures, his contributions to the world of art immortalized through his evocative and masterfully crafted compositions.
Douglas Lionel Mays
Douglas Lionel Mays (1900–1991) was a gifted illustrator and painter, whose artistic talent illuminated the pages of numerous publications and later found expression in contemplative oil studies. Born in Kingston upon Thames, Surrey, Mays’s creative journey was marked by a deep connection to his surroundings and a passion for depicting the complexities of family life.
Mays’s artistic education began at Goldsmiths’ College School of Art after his service in the army stationed in Germany. Under the guidance of notable teacher Edmund J. Sullivan, Mays honed his skills and developed a keen eye for capturing the essence of human experience.
Following in the footsteps of versatile black-and-white artists, Mays established himself as a sought-after illustrator, contributing to esteemed publications such as Punch, John Bull, and Royle Publications. His illustrations, often inspired by his own family, captured the nuances of everyday life with warmth and authenticity.
Despite his reclusive nature, Mays’s artistic talents shone brightly, earning him recognition and acclaim. In later years, he turned his attention to oil painting, producing thoughtful studies that reflected his introspective nature. His works were showcased at the Royal Academy (RA), where they resonated with audiences and critics alike.
Throughout his life, Mays remained dedicated to his craft, continually exploring new avenues of expression and pushing the boundaries of his artistic abilities. His legacy endures as a testament to the power of art to illuminate the human experience and evoke profound emotional resonance. Mays passed away in his hometown of Kingston upon Thames, leaving behind a body of work that continues to inspire and captivate audiences.
Jack Merriott
Jack Merriott (1901–1968) was a distinguished British artist celebrated for his contributions as a painter, poster designer, illustrator, and educator. Born with a passion for art, Merriott’s journey began with formal studies at the Croydon School of Art and later at St Martin’s School of Art, where he honed his craft and nurtured his creative vision.
Merriott’s artistic prowess was recognised through his membership in esteemed artistic societies, including the Wapping Group of Artists, where he served as vice-president for a period, the Croydon Art Society, the Langham Sketch Club, and the St Ives Society of Artists. His work graced the walls of prestigious institutions such as the Royal Academy (RA), Royal Institute of Oil Painters (ROI), Royal Institute of Painters in Water Colours (RI), Royal West of England Academy (RWA), and the Royal Society of British Artists (RBA).
The Bradford City Art Gallery and Sunderland Museum and Art Gallery proudly house Merriott’s work, which is distinguished by its breezy freshness, crisp lines, and well-controlled colour palette. His paintings evoke a sense of vitality and charm, capturing the essence of the landscapes he frequented, particularly around his beloved home in Polperro, Cornwall, a region he frequently depicted on canvas.
Beyond his artistic endeavours, Merriott shared his knowledge and passion for art as a teacher, inspiring generations of aspiring artists with his expertise and guidance. His legacy endures through his vibrant and evocative creations, which continue to captivate audiences with their timeless beauty and enduring appeal.
John S. Smith
1921–2010
More Information
- Bennett, Alan. “Cornwall: Half-Foreign Land.” BackTrack, vol. 19, no. 11, November 2005, pp. 697-702.
- Cole, Beverley. “LMS Poster Publicity and the Royal Academy.” BackTrack, vol. 6, no. 3, May-June 1992, pp 136-139.
- Cole, Beverley, and Richard Durack. Railway Posters 1923-1947. Laurence King, 1992.
- Cole, Beverley. “Tom Purvis 1888-1959.” BackTrack, vol. 20, no. 3, March 2006, pp. Pages 186-187.