This special exhibition at The Armitt marks a significant milestone in celebrating the life and legacy of one of Britain’s most iconic outdoor writers and illustrators

This special exhibition at The Armitt marks a significant milestone in celebrating the life and legacy of one of Britain’s most iconic outdoor writers and illustrators – Alfred Wainwright. This year (2025) commemorates the 70th anniversary of his groundbreaking Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells: The Eastern Fells and the exhibition invites visitors on a journey through a life that deepened Wainwright’s enduring connection to the Lake District and beyond. His guides are more than navigational tools – they are personal, poetic love letters to the countryside.

The Armitt is collaborating with Wainwright archivist Chris Butterfield to create a display of unique, never-before-seen by the public objects from his collection, and other private individuals, linked to the history of the man behind the 214 Wainwrights and the Pictorial Guides to the Lakeland Fells.

Some of the special items include:
• Personal objects once owned and used by Wainwright
• Publishing and printing material from the books
• Videos and images of Wainwright and friends
• Original drawings and photographs

The display will have changing features every quarter, so we hope that you’ll come back throughout the year to see new and different items from Chris’ archive.
In addition, there is a full programme of events including talks, walks and performances. See our events page for details and booking.

“Thank you to Chris Butterfield and our supporters who have helped to bring this exhibition together”.
Visit the Alfred Wainwright website for more information on Chris’ work and collection.