Ruskin's View - Kirkby Lonsdale, Cumbria UK
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martlakes
N 54° 12.273 W 002° 35.838
30U E 526267 N 6006355
Turner (1775-1851) painted the River Lune here at Kirkby Lonsdale. Ruskin (1819-1900) was a famous Victorian philosopher and a great admirer of Turner's painting, saw the picture and remarked that it was one of the loveliest scenes in England.
Waymark Code: WM37DR
Location: United Kingdom
Date Posted: 02/22/2008
Views: 86
John Ruskin was an author, art critic, philosopher, and advocate of social reform. He was one of the commentators on the society of his day, and if TV had been invented, he would no doubt have been called to speak on many matters, especially during late night high-brow shows!
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His opinion mattered and when he said "that's a good view" people listened and the embryonic tourist industry of Victorian times was happy to go along with him. Thus Church Brow became one of the 'must see' sites on any respectable Victorian's tour of England. It became know as Ruskin's View, despite the fact that it was Turner who painted the inspirational picture.
Exactly what he said depends on the source you look at. One version is: "I do not know in all my own country, still less in France or Italy, a place more naturally divine".
Ruskin's View has become a traditional view point, even though, to be honest, it's a fairly average view. Given the many other tremendous views in the Dales and Lakes it's hard to say this particular bend in the river would be in the top ten list of best views without Turner and Ruskin's celebrity endorsement. It is certainly a very pleasant spot and a lovely rural scene across the river to the hills beyond.
Alexander Pearson purchased the land in 1947 and gave it to the Parish Council. A plaque records the fact and hopes they will look after it.
In 2004 a small fly landed in the ointment. The farmer who owns the farm in the centre of this famous view became engaged in a planning dispute, so in protest at the bureaucrats he painted the side if his barn in bright coloured stripes. This, of course, caused outrage in many people who wanted to preserve the view. The stripes still grace the barn and are becoming another interesting feature of this historical and scenic viewpoint.
A short hundred yards through the churchyard of St Mary's will bring you to the overlook. Alternatively, park at Devil's Bridge and follow the river up until reaching the Radical Steps, which with a strenuous climb will raise you to the viewpoint.