John Ruskin

Ruskin’s home at Brantwood on the shores of Coniston boasts one of the finest views in the Lake District.

His home is preserved exactly as it was when he left it and is a fascinating place to visit to discover more about his life and works.

Ruskin purchased Brantwood in 1871 in a somewhat run-down state. It cost him £1500. He lived on this sprawling estate until his death in 1900 at the age of 80.

He renovated the house and added a turret where he could enjoy a panoramic view of the lake. He also added a small harbour from which he could sail his boat the Jumping Jenny. 

Ruskin redesigned the gardens to indulge in his passion for flora and fauna. The current Brantwood estate gardener is keen to preserve the grounds in the way Ruskin designed them.

John Ruskin was a Victorian writer, philosopher and art critic during a time when the Lake District was a hotspot for the country’s finest creative brains.

Ruskin tackled many issues close to his heart with his writing such as politics, economics, geology, architecture and literature.

He was a prolific writer in numerous different genres and styles. His work included travel guides, poetry, essays, lectures, manuals and even a fairy tale!

Ruskin is perhaps best known for his ‘Critique of political economy’ which questioned the very notion at the heart of the economy. This ground-breaking piece of work was even said to have inspired Mahatma Gandhi.

His reputation as a critic was cemented in 1843 with the publication of his essay ‘Modern Painters.’ The piece was defending the work of J.W. Turner. Later he championed the Pre-Raphaelite movement who were inspired by his philosophy and writing.

Ruskin was a hugely influential writer during his lifetime, however, his fundamental beliefs about environmentalism and sustainability seem just as pressing today.