Swallows and Amazon (1974)

1974 classic version of the film starring Virgina McKenna as mother. Set in 1929. Based upon Arthur Ransome’s immortal children’s novel, “Swallows and Amazons,” written on the otherside of the estuary. The film follows the adventures of four children (John, Susan, Titty and Roger) on holiday in the Lake District and their boat Swallow. They are allowed to sail to an island and camp for a few days. They encouter Amazon, a dinghy crewed by Nancy and Peggy Blackett and their uncle Captain Flint, who lives in a house boat.

Suitable for grown-ups, children and people reliving their childhood. It is 50 years since the film was first shown.

Arthur Ransome was a regular visitor to Arnside. Swallow was made by Crossfields in Arnside in the Beach Walk Boatyard in 1912. In the 1930s Swallow was brought by Roger Fothergill a local teenager and kept on the estuary at Arnside. Coch-y-bonddhu another of Arthur Ransome’s boats was used to teach sailing at Earnseat Prep School which was located at Ashmeadow House in the 1950s.

There is a talk by Sophie Neville who starred in 1974 version as Titty on Thurs 27th June. See her website https://sophieneville.net/swallows-and-amazons/

You should be able to get a few sailing tips from the film.