Sunset over Derwentwater at KeswickNestled on the shores of Derwentwater is the Lake District’s most northerly town: Keswick. This attractive town is surrounded by fells and ideally located for exploring the rest of the national park.
Keswick has a long history as a bustling market town and there’s plenty for visitors to do and see. In the town centre, there’s an excellent museum, art galleries and a selection of independent cafes and shops. From Keswick, it’s easy to access the scenic landscapes of the North Lakes, where you can swim, sail or hike on the trails which meander around the water.
From Keswick, some of the Lake District's most enchanting attractions are easily accessible. The shimmering waters of Derwentwater are moments away. In the warmer months, it’s a popular spot to take a dip. If popping in the water isn't your thing, take a trip up to Surprise View, where you can look over the whole of Derwentwater, Keswick and beyond to Bassenthwaite.
Castlerigg Stone Circle Another great viewing spot is from Castlerigg Stone Circle. Sharing its ancestry with some of Britain's earliest stone circles, the panoramic views of High Seat and Helvellyn are staggering.
Alternatively, take a cruise with Keswick Launch. All year round, the cruiser sets sail on a 50-minute journey, stopping at various lakeshore jetties for passengers to admire the scenery.
Surrounded by dense forest to the north of Keswick is Skiddaw Mountain. At 3054ft, it’s England’s fourth highest mountain. There’s a good track from a car park near the town to the top of the mountain, where walkers are greeted by some of the Lake District’s most spectacular views.
If you’re feeling brave and fancy giving climbing a go, head for Keswick Climbing Wall and Outdoor Adventure Centre. The centre offers lessons for beginners as well as challenging sessions for more experienced climbers.
Keswick is also home to The Pencil Museum, where you’ll find the world’s longest colouring pencil, the first ever pencil and – perhaps surprisingly – a giant. It’s a fun family day out and you can even try your hand at creating your own cartoon.
Other interesting points of interest include Alpacaly Ever After, where the woolly army is waiting to take you on an adventure of the surrounding area. And also The Lakes Distillery, where you can go behind the scenes on a tasting tour in this old Victorian farmstead.
If you’ve been enjoying the great outdoors and it’s time for a bite to eat, never fear. There’s a variety of cafes and restaurants in Keswick to provide you with much-needed nourishment for your next adventure. Kat's Kitchen is popular for its Buddha bowl, build-your-own burger and pizza-style flatbreads.
“Nestled on the shores of Derwentwater is the Lake District’s most northerly town, Keswick.”
For an evening meal in pleasant surroundings with a bit of novelty, try The Sizzling Stone, where you cooked your own dinner on a hot lava stone at your table! And for a great selection of burgers and beers in the Lake District, head for the ever-popular The Round.
Keswick offers a good variety of entertainment including a cinema, Theatre by the Lake and the annual Keswick Mountain Festival, which features sporting events, world-class speakers and live music.