South Devon (including W. Dorset Coast) and South Cornwall: With a Full Description of Dartmoor and the Scilly Isles

This guidebook was published as part of the Ward, Lock & Co. series of travel manuals, which became a staple for the British middle-class tourist during the late Victorian and Edwardian eras. Written by Charles Slegg Ward, a clergyman and avid topographer, the volume was designed to provide comprehensive, reliable transit and sightseeing information for travelers exploring the rugged landscapes of Devon and Cornwall. These guides were instrumental in the democratisation of leisure travel, offering detailed maps and practical advice that encouraged the burgeoning railway tourism industry.

The design of the series followed a consistent, utilitarian aesthetic that prioritized readability and portability for the active walker or cyclist. Ward was highly regarded for his meticulous attention to detail, particularly regarding the geography and history of Dartmoor and the Scilly Isles. The volume was well-received by contemporaries for its clear organization and its ability to act as a definitive companion for those navigating the complex coastal routes and wild inland terrains of the English West Country.