Brantwood, Cumbria

John Ruskin loved his home overlooking Coniston Water in the Lake District. As an art critic, writer and social reformer in the 19th century, he understood the power of nature. The 250-acre estate is home to a variety of gardens, each reflecting Ruskin’s interests, and there’s something for everyone, from the ‘Zig-zaggy’ to the sweetly scented Harbour Walk. And from 23 April, the Blue Gallery hosts a year-long celebration of Ruskin’s interest in areas such as climate change, abstraction and optics.

✱ Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10.30am-4pm, admission £8.70; brantwood.org.uk