'I swim like a frog that has lost the use of its hind legs': The Pursuit of Health and Leisure in Buxton, 1781‐90. (8th May 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Collinge, Peter
• Is Part Of: Journal for eighteenth-century studies. Volume 40:Number 3(2017:Sep.)
• Page Start: 381
• Page End: 398
• Publication Date: 2017-05-08
• Subjects: Jane Macartney -- Hester Newdigate -- Derbyshire -- elite women -- bathing -- regimen -- resort -- spa -- taking the waters; Eighteenth century -- Periodicals; Europe -- Civilization -- 18th century -- Periodicals; Dix-huitième siècle -- Périodiques; Civilisation -- 18e siècle -- Périodiques; 940.25305
• DOI: 10.1111/1754-0208.12465
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1754-0194

Abstract

Abstract: As the eighteenth century progressed, the number of spa resorts proliferated; so too did an elaborate range of leisure options associated with them. Such was the extent of these offerings that the therapeutic qualities of the waters have a tendency to be overlooked in assessments of spa culture as the century drew to a close. Using Hester Newdigate's correspondence and Jane Macartney's accounts relating to Buxton, Derbyshire, this article examines the extent to which the reputation and perceived benefits of a resort's waters determined the choice of destination and the significance of hydropathic regimens during visitors' repeat visits.