This delightful circa 1930 original travel poster by British painter and illustrator Leonard Richmond captures the untamed beauty and sunlit charm of North Cornwall’s coastline, as promoted by the famed “Atlantic Coast Express.” Commissioned by Southern Railway, the poster is a vibrant invitation to seaside leisure, fresh air, and affordable adventure.
Bathed in warm light, the scene is set against dramatic cliffs and golden sands. Richmond’s expressive brushwork and bold palette bring to life a group of beachgoers—children playing, families exploring rock pools, and bathers strolling—imbuing the poster with joyful movement and a nostalgic, timeless quality. The craggy coastline, vivid sea foam, and expansive sky embody both the romantic wilderness of Cornwall and the modern ideal of accessible travel.
Leonard Richmond, renowned for his post-impressionist flair and travel commissions, designed numerous posters for British railway companies. His work not only advertised destinations, but also helped shape the visual identity of British tourism in the interwar years.
Printed in a smaller format, this poster may have served for display in ticket offices or as promotional material in brochures and travel agencies. Today, it is a rare collector’s gem, sought after for its decorative charm and historic value.
Ideal for lovers of British railway art, seaside nostalgia, or the rugged allure of Cornwall’s Atlantic coast, this poster is a window into a golden age of rail travel and graphic design.
Railway - United Kingdom - Tourism
Southern Railway
Very good state
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