[2] Its collections include material on the copper and slate mines of the region, geology, lace making, farming, and writer Arthur Ransome.

In the grounds of the museum stands "Riverdale", an extensive collection of over sixty miniature structures including houses, bridges and farm buildings which were hand-made by local builder John Usher (1940-1993).

Based on local vernacular architecture, the slate and stone structures were removed from Usher's former home Brow Head after his death, with the largest collection being re-homed at the museum in 1999.

[3] In agreement with the Trust and the museum, Bill Smith offered to organise the restoration of the boat free of charge.

As of April 2024, just one month since her return to Coniston, there have been over 6,000 visits to see K7 at the Ruskin Museum, and that to date, is more public views than at any time since the 1960’s.

[13] In the 1980s, the museum was identified as one of the collections in the North West of England most at risk[14] and a project was launched to secure its long-term future.

In 2017/18, architect Takeshi Hayatsu worked with tutors and students from Central Saint Martins in London and Grizedale Arts to design and install a kiosk adjacent to the museum, with surface copper tiles decorated by local people.