Rare Old OS Map of Cape Wrath & Tongue, Sutherland by Bartholomew, 1901: Ben Hope, Loch Eriboll, Kyle of Durness, Ben Loyal

Step back in time with the exquisite "Sheet 26 - Cape Wrath & Tongue," a masterpiece crafted by the renowned cartographer JG Bartholomew in 1901. This map, part of Bartholomew's flagship series, was a beacon for cyclists and tourists of the early 20th century, offering a half-inch to the mile scale (1:126,720) that meticulously detailed the rugged beauty of Scotland's northwestern coast. Bartholomew, often hailed as "the Prince of Cartography," employed innovative techniques to bring this region to life, using a subtle gradation of colour bands to represent the varied landscape relief, making this map not only a navigational tool but also a work of art.

The map’s design is a testament to Bartholomew's cartographic prowess, featuring a landscape orientation that captures 36 miles from north to south and 52 miles from west to east. The use of different layers of colour to indicate elevations and landscape relief is both functional and visually appealing, providing a clear and attractive representation of the terrain. This method allowed users to easily discern the heights of mountains and the depths of valleys, enhancing their understanding of the physical geography. The clarity and aesthetic appeal of this map made it a favourite among those who explored the great outdoors, whether by bicycle or on foot.

"Sheet 26 - Cape Wrath & Tongue" is rich with geographical features that paint a vivid picture of the region. From the imposing peaks of Ben Hope and Ben Loyal to the serene waters of Loch Eriboll and Loch Naver, the map showcases the diverse natural beauty of the area. The Kyle of Durness and Kyle of Tongue are prominently displayed, along with the intricate coastline of Eddrachillis Bay. Rivers such as the Naver, Borgie, Hope, Dionard, and Laxford wind their way through the landscape, adding to the map's detailed depiction of the region's hydrology. These features not only served as crucial navigational aids but also highlighted the stunning natural phenomena that characterized this part of Scotland.

The map also provides a window into the human geography of the time, with towns like Durness, Tongue, Scourie, and Kinlochbervie marked with precision. These settlements, nestled amidst the dramatic landscape, offer a glimpse into the lives of those who inhabited this remote part of the British Isles. The inclusion of these towns, along with smaller villages and hamlets, reflects the map's utility for both local residents and visitors. Each place name is a reminder of the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the region, inviting exploration and discovery.

Historically, this map is significant not only for its cartographic excellence but also for its role in promoting outdoor recreation. At a time when cycling and hiking were becoming popular pastimes, Bartholomew's maps provided essential guidance and inspiration. The detailed political boundaries and physical features captured in "Sheet 26 - Cape Wrath & Tongue" made it an invaluable resource for adventurers and scholars alike. Today, it stands as a beautiful and informative relic of a bygone era, offering a fascinating glimpse into the geography and history of Scotland's wild and captivating northwest.

Cities and towns on this map

• Durness
• Tongue
• Scourie
• Kinlochbervie
• Lairg
• Altnaharra
• Bettyhill
• Strathy
• Melvich
• Rogart
• Golspie
• Brora

Notable Features & Landmarks

• Cape Wrath
• Loch Eriboll
• Loch Hope
• Loch Loyal
• Loch Naver
• Loch Shin
• Loch Stack
• Loch More
• Kyle of Durness
• Kyle of Tongue
• Eddrachillis Bay
• Foinaven (mountain)
• Ben Hope (mountain)
• Ben Loyal (mountain)
• Ben Klibreck (mountain)
• River Naver
• River Borgie
• River Hope
• River Dionard
• River Laxford

Historical and design context

• Name of the map: Sheet 26 - Cape Wrath & Tongue
• Scale: Half-inch to the mile (1:126,720)
• Popularity: These maps were popular with cyclists and tourists, becoming Bartholomew's flagship series.
• Relief Representation: The half-inch maps are distinctive for using different layers of colour to represent landscape relief, with a subtle and innovative gradation of colour bands used to show land at different heights.
• Base Map: The map is based on a reduced Ordnance Survey map from the same period.
• Dimensions: Covers 36 miles from north to south and 52 miles from west to east.
• Creation Date: 1901
• Mapmaker/Publisher: JG Bartholomew
• Interesting Context: John George Bartholomew was a notable Scottish cartographer and geographer, often referred to as "the Prince of Cartography." His work significantly contributed to the development of modern cartographic techniques.
• Themes Shown on the Map:
• Political Boundaries: Shows detailed political boundaries within the region.
• Physical Features: Highlights physical geography, including mountains, rivers, and coastal features.
• Tourism and Cycling: Designed to be useful for cyclists and tourists, indicating routes and points of interest.
• Countries and Regions Shown:
• Scotland: Specifically the northwestern part, including Cape Wrath and Tongue.
• Design and Style:
• Landscape Orientation: The map is laid out in landscape format.
• Colour Gradation: Uses a gradation of colours to indicate different elevations and landscape relief.
• Clarity and Attractiveness: Known for its clear and attractive presentation.
• Historical Significance:
• Innovative Cartography: Represents a significant advancement in the use of colour and relief in maps.
• Tourism and Recreation: Reflects the growing popularity of outdoor activities like cycling and hiking in the early 20th century.

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 16x20in (40x50cm) 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.

For most orders, delivery time is about 3 working days. Personalised and custom made maps take longer, as I have to do the personalisation and send it to you for approval, which usually takes a day or two.

Please note that for larger framed orders (over 40in/100cm), and some other framed sizes, the delivery time will be closer to 7-10 days.

If you need your order to arrive by a certain date, please contact me before you order so that we can find the best way of making sure you get your order in time.

I print and frame maps in 22 countries around the world. This means your map will be made locally, which cuts down on delivery time and reduces the chance of your map being damaged during delivery. There won't be any extra taxes or duties to pay, and we'll put less CO2 into the air.

All of my maps are well packaged and sent in a rugged tube if unframed, or surrounded by foam if framed.

I try to send out all maps within 1 or 2 days of receiving your order, though some products (like face masks or mugs) can take longer to make.

If you select Express Delivery at checkout your order we will prioritise your order and send it out by 1-day courier (Fedex, DHL, UPS, Parcelforce).

We can sometimes do next-day delivery if you order before 10am. But usually it's best to contact me first before you order.

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My standard frame is a gallery style black ash hardwood frame. It is simple and quite modern looking. My standard frame is around 20mm (0.8in) wide.

I use super-clear acrylic (perspex/acrylite) for the frame glass. It's lighter and safer than glass - and it looks better, as the reflectivity is lower.

Six standard frame colours are available for free (black, dark brown, dark grey, oak, white and antique gold). Custom framing and mounting/matting is available if you're looking for something else.

Most maps are also available as a framed canvas. The map is printed on matte (not shiny) canvas, stretched over a box frame, and then 'floated' within a simple wood frame. The end result is quite beautiful, and there's no glazing in front of your map.

All frames are provided "ready to hang", with either a string or brackets on the back. Very large frames will have heavy duty hanging plates and/or a mounting baton. If you have any questions, please get in touch.

See some examples of my framed maps and framed canvas maps.

Alternatively, I can also supply old maps on canvas, foam board, cotton rag and other materials.

If you want to frame your map yourself, please read my map size guide first.