Alfred Wainwright Exhibition 2025

Article by Faye Morrissey

The Armitt museum is pleased to announce a collaborative exhibition for 2025, co-curated with ‘Alfred Wainwright Books & Memorabilia’ on the legendary Alfred Wainwright. Starting in February and running throughout the year at the museum in Ambleside, Cumbria, this exhibition will be an unmissable event for Wainwright aficionados and those new to his work.

As it approaches the 70th anniversary of Wainwright’s book, The Eastern Fells, his first Pictorial Guide to the Lakeland Fells, this exhibition will provide a detailed exploration of his life and publishing journey. From his modest beginnings after relocating to Kendal from Blackburn in 1941 to his enduring legacy in Cumbrian literary history — alongside luminaries such as John Ruskin, William Wordsworth, and Beatrix Potter — Wainwright’s story is one of inspiration and dedication.

Ambleside holds a special significance in Wainwright’s story. It was here, in 1952, that he began his fieldwork for his first guidebook, starting with Fairfield. The route to Dove Crag, the first fell he described, is just a short walk from The Armitt, situating the museum at the heart of Wainwright’s iconic journey.

Thanks to Titus Wilson of Kendal, archivist Chris Butterfield oversees a vast collection of original Westmorland Gazette Wainwright book printing materials and other special objects collected over many years. Enhanced by generous contributions from other museums, archives, and individuals closely linked to Wainwright, this unique exhibition will chronicle his history across different aspects of his life, showcasing original artwork, book printing negatives, plates, gold blocking, and an original manuscript and objects owned/used by Wainwright. The exhibition will also feature materials from his various projects during his later years, providing a comprehensive look at his creative process.

The Armitt’s Manager and curator, Faye Morrissey, said, “Wainwright is such an important individual for the Lakes, and the timing of the exhibition makes it even more appropriate to acknowledge his legacy here in Ambleside. We’re delighted to be working with Chris to showcase, for the first time, many of his privately collected objects that show an alternative side to Wainwright. Building on the success of the co-curated “Running Int’ Fells” exhibition, we are looking forward to developing a stronger connection with our community.”

Chris Butterfield, Wainwright archivist and co-curator, said, “It’s a privilege to be part of an exhibition that celebrates Wainwright’s extraordinary contribution to Cumbrian literary and cultural history. This exhibition at The Armitt is not just a tribute to Wainwright’s work but an invitation to rediscover the landscapes he loved through his eyes. Whether you’re a lifelong admirer or new to his work, you’ll find something inspiring and uniquely personal in this collection”.

Don’t miss this opportunity to delve into the life and legacy of Alfred Wainwright at The Armitt museum from February to December 2025. Look out for more information coming in the New Year.