Following on from our talk John Ruskin, Prophet & Visionary, we invite you to join
us on a one-day trip to visit Ruskin’s home and the area around Coniston Water
that so inspired him in later life.

Itinerary

After an early departure from Trinity Church, we stop briefly for refreshments and then head north for our
first stop at the Ruskin Museum, set in the heart of Coniston Village. Not just about Ruskin, the museum
tells the fascinating story of Coniston heroes. These include world water and land speed record holders
Donald Campbell CBE and his father Malcolm and a violin maker, Bert Smith, who was greatly admired by Yehudi Menuhin. Perhaps even a touch of Swallows & Amazons?
We then move on to Brantwood for a light lunch before exploring Ruskin’s former home and garden on the shores of Coniston Water. This is now a vibrant centre for the arts set in acres of stunning gardens with magnificent views of Coniston Water and the Lakeland mountains beyond. Ruskin, a renowned writer, artist and social reformer spent the last 28 years of his life at Brantwood and the house contains many fine paintings and treasures that once belonged to him. His legacy is impressive. As the Brantwood website states, his influence extends “from the Pre-Raphaelites and the Arts & Crafts movement to the founding of The National Trust and the Welfare State”.
We break our journey home to enjoy a hearty and convivial two course dinner with wine in Winston’s Barn at The Coniston Hotel, just outside Skipton. A short run home sees us back in Harrogate by 9pm latest.
Numbers are limited to 30. Early booking is advised. BOOKINGS CLOSE 31st MARCH

Booking Information

COST – £ 140 per person. All-inclusive (refreshments, entry fees, lunch & dinner, drinks, coach
& tips)
Non-Friends welcome at £ 15 supplement
TIMINGS & MENU CHOICES follow nearer the date
To reserve your place, please email the details requested below to julieagoldsmith32@gmail.com
and make a £ 140 per person BACS payment, Reference APRIL 23 and your SURNAME to:-
Sort Code: 40-23-12 Account No: 11440659
Harrogate Arts & Mercer Gallery Development Trust
Or

Please send the details listed below along with a cheque made payable to The Friends of the Mercer Art Gallery and post to:-
Julie Goldsmith, Apartment 1, 35 Ripon Rd Harrogate HG1 2JL Tel: 07950 606305

Booking details:-

Name(s)
Address
Email
Tel No
IN CASE OF EMERGENCY CONTACT DETAILS ARE REQUIRED:
Emergency Contact Name
Emergency Contact Tel No

Cheques now cost us 40p each to bank and a contribution of 40p to cover this cost would
be much appreciated.
No refund can be given after the closing date of 31st March 2023.
Registered Charity No. 101143