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Keswick is both the most northerly of the Lake District’s towns and maybe its best located: at the northern end of beautiful Derwentwater, it’s surrounded by large fells including Skiddaw and Blencathra, two of the most popular among walkers and hikers. It’s also the perfect spot to explore this part of the national park, notably the valleys of Borrowdale and Buttermere.
Right in the heart of the Lake District National Park, Keswick is still only 20 minutes from the M6 – and close enough to some of the Lake District’s best-known lakes, including Bassenthwaite, Thirlmere and Ullswater as well as Derwentwater. Fancy some fell-waking? There’s Skiddaw and Blencathra, but don’t forget Grizedale Pike and Catbells, a fell that is popular with walkers of all ages and abilities.
Little is known about the early history of Keswick, but St Kentigern is known to have preached at Crosthwaite (to the east of the town centre) in AD 556. A Norman church was built on the spot in 1181, followed by a small settlement.
The church apparently attracted unofficial markets following church services. This caused much contention until a market charter was granted in 1276 to a small cheese dairy not far away on the banks of the river Greta. This was the start of Keswick, whose name translates as ‘cheese farm'.
As Keswick grew in size, the original settlement at Crosthwaite declined, leaving the church isolated.
Prosperity came to Keswick in the 16th century with the extraction of minerals from the surrounding fells. With no local mining expertise, skilled German miners were drafted in to work the copper and lead mines in the Newlands Valley, and a large smelting plant was established at Brigham (where the A66 road bridge crosses the river Greta).
The later discovery of wadd (graphite) at Seathwaite in Borrowdale gave rise to around 14 pencil manufacturing businesses in the area, one of which - the Cumberland Pencil Company - was operational in Keswick up to 2007.
Blencathra - Set near Skiddaw forest overlooking the River Greta in the north of the Lake District, Blencathra is one of the county's most renowned peaks.
Borrowdale - From above the shores of Derwentwater, Borrowdale presents an impressive picture - high peaks reflected in the lovely lake. The valley is a paradise for all walkers with low and high routes to suit all tastes. It's a playground for rock climbers too.
Castlerigg Stone Circles - Castlerigg is perhaps the most atmospheric and dramatically sited of all British stone circles, with panoramic views and the mountains of Helvellyn and High Seat as a backdrop.
Latrigg Fell - Latrigg is Keswick’s premier viewpoint. It sits in a superb position high above the northern edge of town with its back nestled against Skiddaw’s towering flanks and its front and sides open across the whole Vale of Derwent. From its lofty summit you can sit and have a fantastic time spotting almost the whole of the Lake District’s central fells.
Rock climbing is one of the fastest growing sports and Borrowdale, close to Keswick is the perfect…
At first glance the western side of the Helvellyn range may seem a little dull. They display slopes…
Stunning views of Borrowdale valley, Easy access to Keswick and Derwentwater, Luxury living in a…
Flag stone floors, oak beams and roaring log fires create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere at the…
This short 8 mile road route uses country lanes to the south west of Keswick on a circular ride…
Guests at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa can enjoy a full afternoon tea service from 12:30pm-5pm.…
Have you ever walked on thin air? Get your heart racing while experiencing breathtaking scenery…
Crosthwaite Church has a long history and it is thought that Christians have worshipped on this…
Our well-stocked Shop goes from strength to strength as we increase our range of products. Our…
This National Trust wood is a wonderful place to be - right by the lake shore.
The annual Keswick Convention has been taking place since 1875. A completely free event offering…
Unspoiled traditional inn with every modern comfort in understated luxury.
Nestled near the tranquil shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, just ten minutes from Keswick, The…
The Full Wolf Moon holds a special spiritual significance for many, symbolising strength,…
Located next to Theatre By The Lake in Keswick, Lakeside Café Restaurant has perhaps some of the…
Meet Ted, a cautious old soul living all alone in a busy, bustling town. He likes it that way. It's…
The full Pink moon in Libra aligns with spring flowers bursting into life and symbolises happiness…
Our cycling holidays are a unique way to discover Cumbria. Designed with the thoughtful traveller…
Authentic rural Lakeland farmstead standing in well-maintained grounds beside small wood sheltering…
Our restaurant full of eager diners, a non-fussy, relaxed atmosphere, staff who take pride in…
To some, including the famous writer, poet and great thinker John Ruskin, Friar's Crag represents…
The flanks of Clough Head and Matterdale Common at the northern end of the Helvellyn range are…
During the nineteenth century, adventurous tourists travelled by horse-drawn carriage through…
These adrenaline-pumping obstacles will test your physical and mental strengths. You’ll need to…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Number of results: 278
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Little Crosthwaite, Keswick
2-night residential stay at Calvert Lakes (twin or family ensuite rooms). Full board and lots of starry themed activities including accessible star-gazing with Cockermouth Astronomical Society; indoor climbing; hydrotherapy pool & sauna; stomp…
Stunning Lake District valley with inspirational mountain and lake scenery.
Cockermouth
The romantic ambience and art-deco features of the stunning train carriages make this a truly unique experience that is not to be missed by locomotive lovers, film enthusiasts and foodies alike! Breakfasts, lunches and afternoon teas are catered for…
Keswick
With jaw-dropping views down the valley over Bassenthwaite Lake and just a stones throw from Keswick, our site at Kestrel Lodge Campsite makes for an ideal location for exploring the Lake District and northern fells. A quiet, family run, family…
Loweswater
Discover the peace and quiet of Holme Wood, a mixed woodland of alder, oak, lime, chestnut, ash and sycamore.
Lake Rd, Keswick
Back in the 80s, Di, Viv and Rose are university housemates. Energetic and idealistic, they become friends – but where will life take them after that?
Filled with the iconic culture, fashion and music of the 80s, 90s and Noughties, Di and Viv and…
Keswick
It's a simple question… Can you hit the Gold? Did you know that archery has been a popular outdoor leisure activity in the UK for centuries, enjoyed by both peasants and kings? And guess what? We’ve got you covered with different sized bows to fit…
Braithwaite, Keswick
We are a relaxed, gourmet getaway nestled in Whinlatter Forest, the only true mountain forest in England, with nine contemporary rooms offering woodland or garden views, it’s a haven of tranquillity and relaxation.
Braithwaite, Keswick
Whinlatter Forest is home to the longest purpose-built mountain bike trail in the Lake District. The Red North and South loops put the mountain back into biking and have been built for experienced riders with good off-road skills and a higher level…
Borrowdale, Keswick
For one week only this October, Honister Slate Mine invites you underground to hear spine-tingling tales inspired by real lives, loss and legends that linger in the dark. Guided by your storyteller’s lantern, you’ll walk through pitch-black tunnels…
Keswick
The Northern String Quartet is a highly acclaimed and award-winning ensemble based in the UK, celebrating its 20th anniversary in 2025. Renowned for its versatility and musical excellence, the quartet has performed on prestigious platforms such as…
Crummock Water has unparalleled views. At 2.5 miles long, it is a clear, rocky bottomed lake flanked by steep fellsides of Skiddaw slate.
Keswick
Nestled near Keswick within the picturesque Lake District National Park lies Lake District Castle Inn Hotel, originally a coaching Inn dating back to 1770. Surrounded by the stunning beauty of the Cumbrian mountains and with views of the serene…
Braithwaite, Keswick
Join JAG Outdoors for a walk around the forest at night.
The guided walk will cover 3-4 miles of trails enjoying the magic of the forest in the growing darkness using all your senses to explore the world after the sun sets. Weather permitting there…
Keswick
Experience adventure at Keswick Mountain Festival (16-18 May 2025) with trail runs, hikes, triathlons, live music, outdoor brands & more in the stunning Lake District. Book now!
KESWICK
To some, including the famous writer, poet and great thinker John Ruskin, Friar's Crag represents Keswick's best view.
Cumbria
Viewed from the west Grasmoor looks like a simple pyramidal peak but this is deceiving. Behind its giant west face it's a complex range of deep cut gills and valleys ringed by high crags and fine grassy ridges.
Penrith
Our spacious plush glamping cabins can offer a comfortable glamping experience.
Lake Rd, Keswick
Help save the day as we pull The Enormous Turnip out of the ground before it takes over the planet!
Living in their tiny shed squeezed in amongst the garden tools, Mr and Mrs Chickweed's amazing prize-winning vegetables have taken over everything!…
Braithwaite
Welcome to England's only true mountain forest. Whinlatter boasts unrivalled views across Bassenthwaite Lake, Derwentwater and Keswick. Located in the North West of the Lake District, you'll find us in the heart of it. It plays host to two of our…
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