If you know anyone who loves the original film of Swallows and Amazons, and is now learning French, why not buy a copy of the DVD that has been dubbed into the French language:
StudioCanal have brought out a fabulous remastered Blu-ray and DVD with an extras package in both English and French.
If you live in France you can order a Kindle copy of ‘The Secrets of Filming Swallows & Amazons’ – which is full of behind-the-scenes photos and links to home-movie footage taken on location, although the text is in English. The paperback makes a good present for students of Media Studies, Drama or Film:
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For other present ideas please click here
The website All Things Ransome have links for of the Arthur Ransome’s book in French here with a useful list providing translations of names here.
The translation of the telegram BETTER DROWNED THAN DUFFERS IF NOT DUFFERS WONT DROWN is Préfère les savoir noyés que stupides. Si pas stupides pas noyés.
You too can find the locations and sail Swallow:
If you would like to stay at Holly Howe ~ contact Jonathan Batty at Bank Ground Farm
To stay at Arthur Ransome’s house in the Lake District ~ contact Stephen Sykes at Hill Top
Swallows & Amazons tours of the Lake District ~ including a trip on the steam train, led by Peter Walker of Mountain Goat in Windermere can be booked for groups by request. A must for overseas visitors. To read about this do go to: ‘In Search of our old Film Locations’. For booking details please click here.
Swallow, the dinghy used in the film, is currently in East Anglia. For opportunities to sail her yourself please click here
Grab-a-chance to sail at the Glenridding Sailing Centre on Ullswater who run Swallows & Amazons Days in summer time.
To go out in the boat used as Captain Flint’s houseboat ~ the Lady Derwentwater, contact the Keswick Launch Company.
Information on visiting Peel Island can be found here
For a cruise on the Coniston Launch, click here
If you are thinking of visiting the Lake District the website VisitCumbria.com has a ‘Swallows and Amazons’ page with activities listed.
Sophie Neville 
Wonderful. I’ve got the DVD and a video recording but nothing beats watching it “live”. I”ve emailed my 4 grandkids! Thanks
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Ah, let me know what they think of it and if they have any questions.
Thank you Sophie. aLthough I have it on video and DVD I’ve still enjoyed it live as much as ever. One granddaughter has been watching at her home and texting me. I shouted “I’ve got her, I’ve got her” at the right moment! Greeting ! Pam
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How lovely! Thanks so much for letting me know. I wonder if watching the DVD in French would help children learning the language.
I think the DVD in French would be a wonderful aid to children learning French.
I have to admit to not having watched it!
If I ever get a copy I will let you know what it’s like.