The Immeasurable Wilds: Travellers to the Far North of Scotland, 1600 - 1900

In the late 18th century, attention turned to the north of Scotland, with the mountains forming a formidable barrier to travel. This book follows the early mapmakers, explorers, and travelers who revealed the area, including Timothy Pont and Alexander Bryce, General Roy, and Culloden. The poverty of the region led to action from the British government, and with the new roads came the tourists, searching for signs of Sir Walter Scott's heroes and heroines. The book also gives a picture of the area's astonishing beauty and the warmth and generosity of its inhabitants.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 224 pages
Publication date: 20 May 2022
Publisher: Whittles Publishing

Towards the end of the 18th century, the attention of mapmakers, explorers, and travelers shifted towards the north of Scotland. The majestic mountains that soared north of Stirling posed a formidable barrier to those seeking to explore the Highlands, and travelers venturing to the Far North were even rarer. In most of Sutherland, Ross, and Cromarty, there were no roads until the early years of the 19th century. Who did venture to these remote regions, and what drove them to do so?

This book delves into the stories of the early mapmakers who gradually unveiled the hidden treasures of the north coast. Notable figures include Timothy Pont and Alexander Bryce, who published the first accurate map of the region. General Roy, known for his remarkable "Great Map," covered the entirety of Scotland, while General Colby, with his indomitable spirit, led his reluctant Ordnance Survey team across vast stretches of the north. Meanwhile, Culloden sparked increased interest in the area, attracting visits from renowned figures such as Dr. Johnson, Thomas Pennant, Bishop Pococke, and the Rev. Charles Cordiner. These visitors, hailing from the south, were struck by the poverty they encountered, leading to significant action from the British government. One notable initiative was a road-making scheme under Thomas Telford, documented in this book through official reports and an enthusiastic account left by the Poet Laureate of the time, Robert Southey.

With the advent of new roads, a wave of tourists flocked to sites like Loch Katrine, eager to glimpse the remnants of Sir Walter Scott's legendary heroes and heroines. However, only a select few dared to venture further into the far north-west, where the rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions tested their courage. Among these daring individuals were the Rev. James Hall, who braved the elements to make love under the table at Caithness, and James Hogg, the ladies' man known for his adventures at Lochs Duich and Maree.

This book offers a captivating glimpse into the lives of these explorers, mapmakers, and travelers, shedding light on the motivations and challenges they faced in their pursuit of knowledge and adventure. It explores the rich history and cultural significance of the north of Scotland, highlighting the impact of the mountains, the poverty, and the road-making schemes on the region's development. Through their stories, we gain a deeper understanding of the human spirit and the enduring allure of the unknown.

Weight: 564g
Dimension: 239 x 170 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781849954921