A MAP of the ‘Liberty of Furness’, copied in 1772 by a T Richardson, from a survey by map maker William Brasier, could make £100 when it comes up for auction.

Showing land from Walney Isle, Barrow to Thurston Water – now known as Coniston – it also features the old counties of Cumberland, Westmoreland and Lancashire.

1818 Auctioneers valuer David Brookes, says maps like these would have helped fuel the first tourist boom.

Mr Brookes explained: “The popularity of the Lake District as a destination for tourists created a market for maps of the region, which we now know as being Cumbria. They are still lovely things to collect and tell us far more than where places are, there is often a hidden agenda.

"In this case it was to encourage people to come to the area and explore its history, sands, lakes and mountains. Additions to the map, like the drawing of a sailing boat and an antiquarian pot, possibly one found at Urswick at the time, would have piqued people’s interest."

He said that with maps there was 'one to suit every budget', as they could make anything from £50 to tens of thousands of pounds depending on their condition, rarity and the fame of the map maker.

“We understand William Brasier was a land surveyor to His Grace the Duke of Montagu, and he made hand coloured and decorated maps, including ones of London parishes, in the first half of the 18th century. Thomas Richardson was an estate surveyor who is reported to have worked in Lanarkshire, Scotland” Mr Brookes said.

Anyone interested in finding out more can view the catalogue online at www.1818auctioneers.co.uk or visit the saleroom at J36 of the M6, the Rural Auction Centre.

The map is being offered on August 6 in the miscellaneous section of the first day of 1818 Auctioneer's Two-Day Auction of Antiques, Collectables & Curios. The estimate on it is £70-100.