KESWICK & DERWENTWATER
Keswick & Derwentwater is the adventure heart of the Lake District, a striking blend of rugged fells, tranquil waters, and a vibrant market town. It is the perfect base for exploring the northern Lakes.
This region is a dramatic landscape of mountains and lakes that has inspired poets and hikers for centuries. It’s a land of iconic scenery, from ancient stones to high mountain passes.
Most Popular Attractions
Keswick Town Core & Culture
Moot Hall: The iconic 16th-century building in the town center, now home to the Keswick Tourist Information Centre.
Derwent Pencil Museum: A unique attraction exploring the history of the pencil, which originated in the Keswick area.
The Theatre by the Lake: A critically acclaimed modern theatre set in a stunning location on the shores of Derwentwater.
Keswick Museum: A small but rich museum detailing the history, industry, and literary connections of the town and surrounding area.
Mirehouse: A historic family home and gardens with literary links to figures like Wordsworth and Tennyson, located north of the town.
Fitz Park: The main public park in Keswick, offering beautiful riverside walks, a play area, and sports facilities.
St John’s Church, Keswick: A notable Victorian Gothic church with an impressive spire that dominates the town’s skyline.
Derwentwater & Lakeside Activities
Derwentwater: The main lake of the area, famous for its picturesque islands and easy accessibility from Keswick.
Keswick Launch: A scenic boat service that operates year-round, stopping at seven jetties around Derwentwater.
Ashness Bridge: A much-photographed stone packhorse bridge offering classic views down the Jaws of Borrowdale.
Surprise View: A renowned viewpoint above Ashness Bridge offering a breathtaking panorama of Derwentwater, Skiddaw, and Keswick.
Lodore Falls: A beautiful cascading waterfall near the south end of Derwentwater, particularly dramatic after heavy rain.
Borrowdale Valley: The scenic valley stretching south from Derwentwater, famed for its ancient woodlands and rugged beauty.
Fells, Hiking & High Passes
Castlerigg Stone Circle: One of the most dramatically situated Neolithic stone circles in Britain, offering views of the surrounding fells.
Latrigg: A low, easily accessible fell north of Keswick, perfect for a gentle hike and offering fantastic views over the town and Derwentwater.
Skiddaw: The fourth-highest mountain in England, a classic and challenging hike with vast views across the northern Lake District.
Catbells: A popular, smaller fell on the western shore of Derwentwater, offering a fun scramble and spectacular views.
Walla Crag: A manageable climb providing a superb view over Keswick, the lake, and the Jaws of Borrowdale.
Honister Pass: A steep and dramatic mountain pass connecting Borrowdale to Buttermere, home to the Honister Slate Mine.
Honister Slate Mine: England’s last working slate mine, offering underground tours and the thrilling Via Ferrata climbing routes.
Newlands Valley: A quieter, highly scenic valley west of Derwentwater, famous for its idyllic stone walls and farms.
Watendlath Tarn: A tranquil mountain tarn nestled in a hanging valley, accessible via a beautiful walk from Rosthwaite or as a drive from Keswick.
Thirlmere: A nearby reservoir and valley with impressive forests, offering a quieter walking experience under the shadow of Helvellyn.
Activities & Experiences
Hike to the Summit of Catbells: Often called the perfect family fell, this relatively short, steep hike offers one of the most iconic and rewarding views over Derwentwater and Keswick.
Take a Derwentwater Launch Cruise: Hop aboard one of the Keswick launches for a scenic 50-minute round trip or use it as a ‘hop-on, hop-off’ ferry to access remote hiking trails, such as those near the Jaws of Borrowdale.
Visit the Castlerigg Stone Circle: Wander through this dramatic, ancient Neolithic stone circle set against the backdrop of the Helvellyn and High Seat fells, offering incredible photo opportunities, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Explore the Town’s Independent Shops: Browse the unique selection of outdoor gear, local art galleries, and charming bookshops (including the famous George Fisher) in the heart of Keswick.
Walk to Friar’s Crag: Take a short, easy walk from the town centre to this famous viewpoint on the shore of Derwentwater, which offers a stunning, classic view of the lake and fells beyond.
Hire a Canoe or Kayak on Derwentwater: Rent a boat from the marinas near the lake shore (like the Lodore Boathouse or Derwentwater Marina) to explore the lake’s four main islands at your own pace.
Tour The Lakes Distillery: Take a trip to this award-winning distillery, located just a short drive from Keswick, for a tour and tasting of its locally-made single malt whisky, gin, and vodka.
Discover the Honister Slate Mine: Drive or take the bus up the stunning Borrowdale Valley to England’s last working slate mine. You can take a guided underground tour, or for the more adventurous, try the via ferrata climbing route.
See a Performance at the Theatre by the Lake: Catch a play or performance at this highly-regarded theatre, which boasts a spectacular location right on the shores of Derwentwater.
Cycle the Old Railway Path: Rent a bike in Keswick and cycle the gentle, traffic-free path that follows the old railway line to the nearby village of Threlkeld, enjoying the views of Blencathra mountain.
Visit the Keswick Museum: Learn about the town’s history, its famous literary figures (like the Romantic Poets), and the unique culture of the Lake District.
Scramble up Skiddaw: For a more strenuous hike, summit the fourth-highest mountain in England, which offers one of the most extensive views on a clear day, stretching as far as Scotland and the Isle of Man.
Local Tips & Transport
Park and Ride the Launch: Traffic and parking in Keswick can be difficult during peak season. A great tip is to park outside the town centre (e.g., at the Theatre by the Lake) and use the Derwentwater Launch to get around the lake and access hiking spots, turning your journey into a scenic cruise.
Walking is Essential: Keswick’s town centre, Friar’s Crag, and the immediate lake shore are all easily accessible on foot. Comfortable, waterproof walking shoes are a non-negotiable part of your packing list.
The Honister Rambler Bus (77/77A): This scenic seasonal bus route is a fantastic way to access the dramatic Borrowdale and Buttermere valleys without worrying about narrow roads and limited parking. It runs in a loop, connecting Keswick with major hiking points like Seatoller and the Newlands Valley.
Mountain Roads: Be prepared for very narrow, winding, and steep single-track roads, particularly when driving to places like Borrowdale, Buttermere, and Wrynose Pass. Always use passing places to allow oncoming traffic to pass.
Bike Hire: Cycling is a great way to cover short distances and explore the immediate area. Numerous shops in Keswick offer rentals for both road and mountain bikes.
Getting from the Train: The nearest major train station is Penrith (North Lakes). From there, you can take the X4/X5 bus service directly to Keswick (a journey of about 40 minutes).
The Lakeland Weather Rule: Be prepared for all four seasons in one day. Waterproofs (a good jacket and over-trousers) are essential, regardless of the forecast. Check the Mountain Weather Information Service (MWIS) before any fell walk.
Fell Walking Safety: Never underestimate the fells. Always carry a map, compass, and whistle, know how to use them, and let someone know your route and expected return time. The Lake District has a fantastic tradition of detailed mapping, so a physical Ordnance Survey map is a recommended purchase.
Embrace the Outdoor Culture: Keswick is a capital for outdoor enthusiasts. Don’t be surprised to see people walking around town in full hiking gear. The town’s atmosphere is relaxed, centred around adventure, a good pint, and hearty food.
Hidden Gems & Local Spots:
Paddy’s Wood (The Entree to Derwentwater): A small, enchanting wooded area right by the lake shore near the Theatre by the Lake. It’s a peaceful spot away from the main promenade.
The Lodore Falls: A beautiful waterfall and gorge at the south end of Derwentwater. After heavy rain, the falls are spectacular, and there’s a pleasant walking route that continues up the gorge.
The Lingholm Estate: This estate on the western shore of Derwentwater is where Beatrix Potter spent many summers, which inspired her Tale of Peter Rabbit. It now has a charming cafe and walled garden you can visit.
A “High Tea” Experience: Many local tea rooms offer a traditional Lakeland ‘High Tea,’ which is a substantial afternoon meal with sandwiches, scones, and cakes—a perfect way to refuel after a long walk.
The Keswick Market: Held on Thursdays and Saturdays, this historic market is a great place to buy local produce, crafts, and the famous Cumberland Sausage.
Terminology: The term ‘Fell’ is a local word for a hill or mountain, and a ‘Tarn’ is a small mountain lake, often found in a corrie (a bowl-shaped depression on a mountainside). You’ll hear these terms everywhere.
Top Restaurants
The George Hotel [$20-$40] – The oldest coaching inn in Keswick, offering classic, hearty pub food with a focus on local ingredients in a cozy, traditional setting with open fires in winter.
The Dog & Gun [$15-$30] – A famous, dog-friendly pub in the Market Square known for its real ale and traditional pub fare like homemade goulash and chilli (check for menu updates as ownership can change).
The Pheasant Inn [$20-$40] – Located slightly outside Keswick, this welcoming pub offers a classic Lake District atmosphere and good traditional pub food, often featuring local Cumbrian produce.
The Farmers Arms [$20-$35] – A village pub in Portinscale, a short walk from Derwentwater, serving good beer and a selection of reliable, traditional pub food.
The Square Orange Café [$15-$30] – A firm local favorite in Keswick, small and cozy, offering a relaxed atmosphere with Spanish-style tapas and stone-baked pizzas, paired with local beers and European wines.
Lake Road Brunch [$15-$25] – A popular spot that takes brunch seriously, serving hearty breakfast and lunch options, using local ingredients to fuel a day in the fells.
The Old Keswickian [$10-$20] – A solid, traditional fish and chip shop in the town centre, praised for using sustainably sourced, wild cod. Perfect for a casual, classic takeaway meal.
Bar Metro [$15-$30] – An American-themed family-friendly diner in the heart of Keswick, sourcing food locally wherever possible, known for flame-grilled BBQ and scratch-made burgers.
The Filling Station Cafe [$10-$20] – A biker-friendly, family and dog-friendly cafe just off the A66, serving all-day breakfasts, homemade pancakes, and hearty burgers.
Lakeside Café Restaurant [$20-$40] – Located next to the Theatre By The Lake, offering fantastic views of Derwentwater and dishes made with locally-sourced produce, popular for pre-performance dining.
Fellpack [$30-$50] – Known for its innovative, eclectic menu that changes seasonally, blending Cumbrian inspiration with global flavors (e.g., lamb dhansak, classic ragu with Cumbrian beef). Reservations are highly recommended.
The Round [$20-$40] – The sister venue to Fellpack, focusing on gourmet burgers with “Lakes-inspired” names and twists, along with creative cocktails. Offers a walk-in option, which is a rare plus in Keswick.
Merienda [$20-$40] – A laid-back cafe-restaurant with a continental feel, offering a globally-inspired menu for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and a relaxed evening meal.
Bar eS Tapas [$20-$35] – A rustic, colorful, and relaxed Mexican-inspired bar tucked away in the back streets, serving a great choice of tapas-style dishes with good vegan options.
Woodstone Pizza & Flamegrill [$25-$45] – A family restaurant offering a unique experience with wood-fired pizzas and flame-grilled dishes, aiming to provide high-quality cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
Casa Bella [$25-$45] – A well-regarded, family-run Italian restaurant serving a mix of traditional classics and daily specials, focusing on fresh pizzas and pasta after a day on the fells.
Derwent Walker Cocktail Bar And Restaurant [$25-$45] – Located in the heart of Keswick, this spot offers a blend of taste and elegance with English-style tapas and larger meals, plus a focus on handcrafted cocktails.
Barua Street Food [$15-$30] – A modern spot in central Keswick offering Indian street food, with dishes made for sharing and served as soon as they are ready for a lively, casual experience.
Mizu Pan Asian Restaurant [$40-$60] – Located a short drive away in Borrowdale, this award-winning restaurant offers Japanese, Malaysian, and Thai-inspired dishes, including sensational sushi, tempura, and fragrant curries.
The Cottage in the Wood [$100-$150] – A Michelin-starred restaurant perched 1,000ft up in Whinlatter Forest, offering an exceptional tasting menu that highlights the rich Cumbrian larder and creative cooking.
Brossen Steakhouse [$50-$80] – Located in the Inn on the Square, this restaurant is dedicated to “spectacular meat and proper stunning food,” offering high-quality steaks and a modern dining experience.
The Pheasant at Bassenthwaite Lake [$40-$70] – Steeped in history, this destination offers a country-style bistro menu featuring high-quality Cumbrian food in an elegant, historic setting (a short drive from Keswick).
Lyzzick Hall Country House Hotel Restaurant [$40-$60] – Located on the lower slopes of Skiddaw (near Keswick), the restaurant offers magnificent views and a good variety of dishes with an emphasis on great value for a fine dining experience.
Jan’s Lakeland Sandwich Shop [$10-$15] – A legendary takeaway-only sandwich shop in the area, a must-visit for a quick, hearty, and authentic “fell fuel” lunch to take on a hike.
The Lingholm Kitchen & Walled Garden [$15-$30] – Located on the western shore of Derwentwater, this is a beautiful spot for breakfast, lunch, or afternoon tea, with food prepared in the adjoining Lingholm Bakery. Beatrix Potter was a regular visitor here.
Treeby & Bolton [$15-$30] – An art gallery and café in Keswick town center, known for serving excellent coffee and great lunches, a stylish spot to stop for a bite.
La Fume [$15-$30] – A small, cozy spot offering modern, Mediterranean-inspired small plates and larger mains, great for a relaxed and flavorful meal.
Luca’s Restaurant [$20-$35] – A popular independent Italian restaurant known for traditional Italian cuisine, including pasta and pizza, often busy with locals.
Kat’s Kitchen [$15-$25] – A popular 100% plant-based café in Keswick, offering enticing brunch and lunch options for those seeking healthy and vegetarian/vegan choices.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Derwent Walker Cocktail Bar and Restaurant: Located right in the heart of Keswick, this venue offers a tailored cocktail menu with bespoke blends and house-infused spirits, providing a modern twist to the local drinking scene.
The Round: Situated in Keswick’s iconic Market Square, this spot is known for its gourmet burgers and a curated selection of crafted cocktails, beers, and wines. It is an ideal walk-in venue for a casual evening drink.
The Oddfellows Arms: A centrally located, traditional pub on Main Street, Keswick, offering a wide range of spirits, wines, real ale, and draught beers, with cocktail deals often available. It has a late license until midnight most nights and is a social hub.
The Inn on the Square (including The Back Bar): Found in the town centre, this hotel has a stylish main bar and The Back Bar—a separate, more relaxed space that features exposed stone, a pool table, and darts, making it a great late-night spot for drinks and atmosphere.
The Pocket Café Bar: Offering a bohemian-style ambiance on Bank Street, Keswick, this independent gem focuses on local craft beers, Belgian beers, gins, and wines, and provides a great, intimate atmosphere often enhanced by live music.
The Crafty Baa: With its quirky, eclectic decoration in Keswick’s town centre, this bar offers a wide range of craft beers, bottled/canned options, and a cozy atmosphere for a late-night drink.
The Golden Lion: Found on Keswick’s high street, this traditional town-centre pub is a busy spot, often hosting live music on select weekends, providing a lively atmosphere for an evening out.
The George Hotel: One of the oldest coaching inns in Keswick, this traditional pub offers a snug bar area with a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a classic pint or glass of wine after a long day.
The Lake Road Inn: A Robinsons pub located on the road toward Derwentwater and the Theatre by the Lake, this spot has quirky décor, a good drinks selection, and is known for hosting live music acts monthly.
The Chief Justice of the Common Pleas (Wetherspoon): A large, interestingly converted former police station and courthouse on Bank Street in the town centre, offering a wide range of affordable drinks including spirits and wine, with a spacious setting for a late-night stop.
The Bank Tavern: Located on Main Street, this refurbished town-centre pub offers a well-stocked bar with a selection of Jennings beers and a pleasant, busy atmosphere.
The Wainwright: A traditional pub on Lake Road in Keswick town centre, known for its dedication to Cumbrian real ales and offering a relaxing environment for an evening drink.
The King’s Arms: A central Keswick hotel pub on Main Street, offering a classic pub experience with a range of drinks in a friendly, traditional setting.
Oddfellows Arms (Outdoor Area): While a pub, its proposed extended opening hours (potentially until 2:30am on some nights) and lively use of its outdoor area make it function as one of the closest options for a later-night gathering in the town centre.
The Inn on the Square Terrace: The main hotel bar’s terrace offers a pleasant outdoor area for an evening drink in the centre of Keswick, perfect for people-watching.
Oddfellows Arms: This central Keswick pub represents the closest venue to a “club” in the area, offering both traditional pub fare, drinks, and late-night entertainment including live music and recorded music.
The Back Bar at The Inn on the Square: Though a bar, its late closing time and inclusion of a pool table, darts, and a lively, central atmosphere make it a key spot for late-night socialising in Keswick.
The Pocket Café Bar (Live Music Nights): This venue regularly features live music (Open Mic on Mondays, Reggae/Folk on Wednesdays, Live Gigs on Fridays) and stays open late, making it a vibrant destination for a music-focused night out in Keswick.
The Golden Lion (Live Music): Hosting live music on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights, this pub on the high street serves as a lively late-night music venue in the heart of Keswick.
Keswick Social Club: A traditional local social club, it occasionally hosts events, live music, and offers a bar for a friendly, local evening experience (check local listings for events).
The Alhambra Cinema Bar: This beautiful, family-run Art Deco cinema on St John’s Street has its own bar, which offers a unique, sophisticated setting for pre- or post-film drinks in Keswick.
Theatre by the Lake Bar: Located right on the shores of Derwentwater, this theatre offers a bar that is a formal, scenic spot for an evening drink before or after a performance, including occasional music events.
Lodore Falls Hotel & Spa Bar: Situated a short drive from Keswick on Derwentwater, this luxury hotel bar/lounge offers a more upmarket experience and occasionally hosts full-on music evenings with a dinner service (booking is advisable).
Threlkeld Village Hall: A short drive from Keswick, this venue frequently hosts a packed programme of events, including various styles of live music and brass bands, offering a vibrant community entertainment option.
The Pack Horse Inn: A traditional pub in Keswick that maintains a great atmosphere and often hosts live music nights, making it a good late-night spot for a traditional, lively British pub experience.