A RENOVATED cafe has been opened to people visiting the former home of the Victorian author John Ruskin.

Besides a new look, the Terrace cafe at Brantwood, near Coniston, now boasts a new brunch and lunch menu.

Howard Hull, director of Brantwood and The Ruskin Foundation, said: "I am confident that under head chef Ben Willan, and his creative, energetic young team, the Terrace cafe will become a destination in its own right and its success will serve to guarantee the survival of one of the jewels in the crown of the Lake District.

"The menu is designed to ensure that visitors get that same sense of inspiration, excitement and renewal when eating with us as they do when visiting the Brantwood, its special exhibitions or gardens."

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The atmosphere and interior decor puts emphasis on 'authenticity and integrity' through a sympathetic use of materials and fabrics.

This includes a seat covered in fabric sourced from the The Laxey Woollen Mills, which was established in 1881 by Lancashire silk weaver Egbert Rydings with the support of John Ruskin and his Guild of St George.

Brantwood offers an insight into the world of John Ruskin and the last 28 years of his life spent at Coniston.

Filled with many paintings and Ruskin’s personal treasures, the house retains the character of its famous resident.

The Terrace will provide catering to those hiring Brantwood as a venue for corporate events, private parties and weddings, with plans in place for the cafe to evolve into an evening venue for theatre, music and poetry events.

Fiona High, Brantwood’s recently-appointed operations manager, said: "Thousands of people visit Brantwood every year. Our ambition is to grow this and make The Terrace a place that people feel comfortable about dropping in and using us as a social space where they can enjoy good food whether visiting the house, an exhibition, or just passing by."