In the footsteps of W.L. Wyllie R.A.

The Old Portsmouth Trail, 1906 - 1931

By

                     Nigel Grundy                        

I have read your book with great interest and a pang for how Spice Island used to be. I have always loved Wyllie's work, what is so important is to keep the memory of one of our greatest marine artists alive, so naturally I loved your book. It was not just that the subject interested me, it is a lovely evocation of this area, and a reminder of one of Portsmouth's most famous citizens.

Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, CBE. RD*.

Don't miss this great book about the Portsmouth artist. Author Nigel J H Grundy has a vast knowledge of the great marine artist W.L. Wyllie R.A. and his book, The Old Portsmouth Trail, has photographs, line drawings, etchings and watercolours on each of the 88 pages.  It's a superb book, well researched, edited and reproduced.'

Bob Hind, The News.

Very innovative and valuable, indeed a superb piece of curation. 

Jan Wyllie. 

I must congratulate you on the book, I am sure many collectors will appreciate it.

Through the reminiscences of members of the Wyllie family, a trail map and 335 photographs including Wyllie etchings and paintings pictures from Wyllie family albums and views of Old Portsmouth c.1906, Nigel Grundy takes the reader on a tour through the historic streets of Old Portsmouth visiting places and properties linked to Wyllie and his family and traces some of the local and world events they were involved with from 1906 until 1931. Tower House, Wyllie's family home and studio for 25 years, events on the terrace, 'Wyllie's garden,' the Wyllie's contribution to the war effort, the loss of two sons in World War 1, the site of his tram shed studio and his links to Portsmouth Sailing Club are among many of the events recalled. 

The book is a good introduction to Wyllie's Old Portsmouth and would make an excellent companion for anyone wishing to visit the area and spend some time familiarising themselves with a part of the old town that Wyllie would have known. For those wishing to walk the route it is flat paved with some cobbled streets and climbing steps to view from the fortifications is optional. Along the trail there are nine public houses, a shop and cafes for refreshment. Towards the end of the walk there is public seating at Point from where a panoramic view of the Spinnaker Tower at Gun Wharf, Portsmouth Harbour and the busy comings and goings of shipping can while away the hours.

A4 publication with 82 pages, colour front and back covers, inside images black & white. ISBN 978-0-9568309-0-6

This book is now out of print