BRITAIN TRAVEL POSTER

This quaint travel poster from 1968 doesn’t go for glamour or a hard sell.  Instead, its message is low key and modest but still alluring, promising that, “England is a country you’ll enjoy.” 

Reinforcing this message, the lovely artwork is a compilation of old-world sights and scenes in and about London. In the foreground is one of the famous Beefeaters, the ceremonial guards at the Tower of London, standing in front of the Tower.

The London scenes behind him show some of the quirky pub signs, including one for the Prospect of Whitby, a famous public house on the Thames, and one of a swan. The Queen’s actual swans float in the foreground; in the background is the Windsor Castle Tower.

How could a tourist resist the call of these attractions, especially when presented in such a visually appealing way?

Published by British Travel, this vintage poster was designed by London native Gaynor Chapman (1935-2000).  As a female graphic designer in a largely male field, she worked principally as a book illustrator and graphic design tutor. In addition to her work for British Travel, she did graphic design projects for corporations, including Air France, British Petroleum and Shell Oil. 

If you’ve visited London, you’ll recognize the scenes depicted in this poster and will remember that England really was a county you had enjoyed.  This poster will remind you of your trip and be a nice addition to the other vintage travel posters in your collection.

Condition: A