Armitt Library and Museum Centre
(See also Ambleside)
Closed due to floods in November 2009 and still closed March 2010. Check to see if reopened before visiting.
Like its name, the Armitt combines the functions of a library and museum. Located in Ambleside, it houses the Armitt Collection, made up of art, archaeology, archives, books, geology, photography, and local history. It's a resource with much information.
The art collection showcases a little known side of Beatrix Potter-a collection of 400 drawings and painting of fungi and other botanical plants. Other painters of the Lake District are represented in the collection.
The archaeology section includes prehistoric and Roman material found in the Ambleside area. A collection of Lake District specimens made by John Ruskin is on display in the geology section.
The archives are a source of invaluable material for the serious student. Representing John Ruskin, Harriet Martineau, and Charlotte Mason, among others, the collection includes manuscripts, letters, folk songs, records, and deeds.
More than 10,000 books relating to the Lake District and its society encompass early guide books, medieval Cumbria, Lakeland poets, and works by local authors.
Those into personal memorabilia will be interested in the museum collection of artifacts belonging to such well known Lake District personalities as John Ruskin and Dorothy Wordsworth. As well, on display are historical items that were in use by everyday people of the area. A collection of Victorian photographs brings history to life.
The Armitt Library was founded in 1909 by Mary Armitt for scholars and serious students. As the collections grew a museum aspect was added to the library.
The museum shop sells books, photographs, and prints, and these may also be purchased from the excellent website.
For anyone interested in the history and the literary figures of the area the Armitt Library and Museum is an invaluable resource full of fascinating material.
Armitt Library and Museum
Rydal Road
Ambleside, Cumbria LA22 9BL
Ambleside is on the A591.
Tel. 015394 31212
Email: info@armitt.com
Website: www.armitt.com Museum open every day except Christmas Day and Boxing Day, 10am-5pm.
The library is open Mon-Fri, 10am-12:30pm and 1:30-4pm.
Note: Please check opening times and dates before visiting in case of changes.
Photos courtesy of Armitt Library and Julian Thurgood
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