Art lovers package celebrates launch of new Mr Turner feature film
To celebrate the release of the new 'Mr Turner' moviestarring Timothy Spall, an historic inn just moments away from a famous scene immortalised by the 19th century painter J.M.W Turner is launching a new 'Art Lovers' break.
Written and directed by Mike Leigh, Mr Turner is a biographical film about the life and career of celebrated artist J.M.W Turner and is already an award winner at the Cannes Film Festival. To complement the film's release, the five-star Sun Inn in Kirkby Lonsdale is offering a special 2 night retreat in November and December for anyone with an appreciation for artistic inspiration.
One of Turner's most famous paintings, Ruskin's View, features St. Mary's Church in Kirkby Lonsdale (just behind the Sun Inn) and the backdrop of the River Lune. Selling at auction for a price-tag of almost £225,000 in 2012, the original painting depicts a scene described by Victorian art critic John Ruskin as "one of the loveliest views in England, therefore in the world".
The Sun Inn's 'Art Lovers' break includes:
A 2 night overnight stay, including a full Cumbrian breakfast
Dinner for two in the AA rosette-rated restaurant, Carter at the Sun Inn
A handy walking guide taking in the inspirational landscape of Ruskin's View and the meandering River Lune, to name just one local stroll.
A complimentary coloured print of Ruskin's View, by J.M.W Turner to take home.
As well enjoying Ruskin's View, guests can also explore a range of other arty delights. The Finestra Gallery in Main Street offers a continuous exhibition of international and local artists who have taken inspiration from the surrounding landscape. In the next village, the Leck Gallery offers private art viewings and regular literature study days centred around the likes of the Brontë sisters, who attended school less a mile away. Just a little further afield, visitors can experience a slice of Turner's England at Farfield Mill, a restored Victorian woollen mill with a wide range of craft demos, heritage displays, working looms and visiting artists set over four floors.
For a truly unique artistic experience, visitors could also search out AndyGoldsworthy's Sheepfolds – a collection of 42 sheepfolds (converted livestock enclosures) dotted throughout the Cumbria countryside, with the highest proportion being found in the Kirkby Lonsdale area.
Kirkby Lonsdale itself is a charming mix of cobbled courtyards, elegant 18th century buildings and stone cottages, all linked together with evocative names including Jingling Lane and Salt Pie Lane.
With an array of independent retailers, there are plenty of traditional Cumbrian and Lancastrian arts and crafts, unique collectables and boutique clothes shops.
The Sun Inn too is full of olde worlde character, all combined with contemporary style and luxury. After their arty adventures, visitors can step under the ancient portico and sink back in front of a roaring log fire to enjoy some traditional Cumbrian ale or simply curl up with a good book. What's more there is unlimited tea and coffee in the bar for all staying guests.
The Sun Inn's 'Art Lovers' break costs from £300 per room based on 2 people sharing for 2 nights on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis (midweek). Guests should quote 'Art Lovers Break' on booking.
For more information, visit sun-inn.info and golakes.co.uk.
