Brantwood was the home of John Ruskin, the writer, poet and artist - but possibly best known as an art-critic and for championing the works of the artist J M W Turner. It is owned by a private trust and is open to the public for a fee. Inside the house there are superb drawings and watercolours by John Ruskin and also a video about his life.

Throughout the season there are a number of exhibitions and events at Brantwood. There is a Craft Gallery which sells the work of local artists, and there is also an excellent restaurant (the Jumping Jenny) that provides the ideal setting for a light meal. The gardens are worth a visit in their own right.

For a more comprehensive guide to Brantwood, including their diary of exhibitions and events you should visit Brantwood's own website.

The very best way to approach Brantwood is from the Lake, and our two traditional timber craft provide an hourly Northern Cruise service from Coniston and a two hourly Southern Cruise service to Brantwood. See Lake Map for routes).

Exclusively we sell a combined boat and Brantwood ticket. The adult price for the Northern Service return plus house entry in 2007 is £10.80 and for Southern is £13.20. There are further reductions for groups of 15 or more people.

The Stagecoach bus service 505, the Coniston Rambler from Bowness and Ambleside sells the Ruskin Explorer ticket which buys you a Boat and Bus return plus Brantwood entry.