Brantwood

The former home of art critic, thinker and philanthropist John Ruskin, Brantwood sits amidst idyllic Lake District landscape and is packed with treasure from the great man's life. Although it is very much kept as it were when it was a real home, there is much more here besides and the centre acts as vibrant hub for the contemporary arts in the area. Within the house you will find paintings, objets d'art, furniture and memorabilia that echo Ruskin's work and life. Your tour starts with an introductory video on Ruskin and then you are encouraged to explore the seven rooms that he spent so much time. There are quizzes and activity sheets for youngsters to keep them engaged in the site too. Don't miss the Blue Gallery where there is a changing programme of curated exhibitions and the deeply scenic mountainside gardens that surround the house, set in a 250 acre woodland estate.