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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.
Formerly a Lakeland Hill Farm, Castlerigg Hall Caravan & Camping Park occupies one of the finest…
At first glance the western side of the Helvellyn range may seem a little dull. They display slopes…
Go wild & experience a world of wildlife! There's over 100 species from Anaconda to Zebra. Rare and…
Lindisfarne is a Victorian house quietly situated, but within a few minutes walk to the town…
A British Rowing affiliated rowing competition, launching from Keswick Foreshore and racing the…
Rock climbing is one of the fastest growing sports and Borrowdale, close to Keswick is the perfect…
This one day introduction to map reading and navigation is suitable for anyone who would like to…
From leisurely lakeside strolls to more challenging fell climbs and classic Lakeland ridge walks,…
The Restaurant at The Borrowdale offers an experience shaped by its surroundings—thoughtfully…
Thirlmere was originally two smaller lakes, which were joined to create a single resevoir…
Whinlatter is the place to enjoy peaceful forest walks surrounded by stunning Lake District…
The 25/26 series of canicross races has now launched! Held in England's only mountain forest, Dodd…
The full Pink moon in Libra aligns with spring flowers bursting into life and symbolises happiness…
Lakeside hotel on Derwentwater with doorstep access to the best walking, hiking, and outdoor routes…
Herdwick Fold was converted from a barn adjoining our 17th century grade II listed farmhouse and…
The northern and eastern slopes of Skiddaw are strikingly different than other Lake District fells.…
Raised in circa 3000BC, Castlerigg is perhaps the most atmospheric of all British stone circles…
Fine food, drink and accommodation at the foot of Blencathera. Dine unwind and stay in our finely…
Retro caravan in great condition with two bedrooms sleeping 4. Elevated sheltered position tucked…
"Cafe Ambio at Whinlatter Forest is set in the beautiful location of Whinlatter Forest, nestled in…
Commence from the Dob Gill Car Park around a kilometre along the road from Wythburn on the western…
Sunnyside Guest House is located in the picturesque town of Keswick and just a short walk from the…
The Lake District is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with Derwentwater being one of the…
Crosthwaite Church has a long history and it is thought that Christians have worshipped on this…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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The loop begins by skirting along the edge of the fells with dramatic and atmospheric views over the valleys of the River Keekle and Dub Beck to distant villages and the rearing hills beyond.
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!
Bassenthwaite
An unique opportunity for anyone over 16 years old. After enjoying a Bird of Prey flying display on the park your experience will begin. Our falconer will teach you how to recall and hold the birds and we start with an owl. Following this we move…
Keswick
The annual Keswick Convention has been taking place since 1875. A completely free event offering life-changing Bible teaching, worship and fellowship, with fantastic Kids & Youth programme for 3-18 year olds, in the heart of the beautiful Lake…
Keswick
Does your partner ever ask you for a massage, and after a few minutes your hands start to ache? With this tutorial you learn an easy, effective home treatment, ideal for soothing tense shoulders.
Keswick
Leisure at the Castle Inn offers a great range of facilities available to our Members and guests staying at the hotel, included heated indoor pool, sauna, steam room and gym. Set beneath some of England's highest fells and overlooking Bassenthwaite…
Skiddaw is one of the elite group of mountains in England whose summit eclipses the 3000 foot barrier. It overlooks Keswick and Derwent Water.
Crummock Water has unparalleled views. At 2.5 miles long, it is a clear, rocky bottomed lake flanked by steep fellsides of Skiddaw slate.
Borrowdale, Keswick
Tucked high along a dramatic mountain pass, Honister Slate Mine is one of the Lake District’s best-kept secrets. Still producing the iconic Green Slate using traditional methods, its slate shop is a treasure trove of handcrafted homewares, gifts and…
Braithwaite, Keswick
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 will hopefully also be able to stop for some amazing…
Keswick
These adrenaline-pumping obstacles will test your physical and mental strengths. You’ll need to muster all your courage and agility to make it through this amazing course.
Keswick
The Good Hotel Guide "Best Hotel in North of England 2024"
Keswick
A luxury, family run country house hotel and restaurant near Keswick in The Lake District National Park. Lyzzick Hall is a perfect base for a walking, sight-seeing or relaxing break.
Braithwaite, Keswick
The Full Snow Moon in Leo illuminates our path to self-expression, confidence, and creative power. Leo, the radiant fire sign ruled by the Sun, invites us to step into our full glory and celebrate our individuality. Traditionally known as the Snow…
Cumbria
At Contours Holidays, we think that the Bob Graham Round is simply too good a route to be restricted to elite fell runners, so we’ve turned it into an awesome walking holiday by extending the route slightly, so that each day ends in a village with…
Penrith
Our spacious plush glamping cabins can offer a comfortable glamping experience.
Coniston
This National Trust wood is a wonderful place to be - right by the lake shore.
Keswick
Residential outdoor adventure holidays for people with disabilities, including those with the most complex needs. It’s what you can do that counts!
Keswick
Come along to the Alhambra for a unique opportunity to watch the film and enjoy a post-screening Q&A with local artist Dorothy Ramsay herself.
This insightful 47-minute film delves into the vibrant life and evocative work of Dorothy Ramsay, a Lake…
The village of Bassenthwaite lies around 1 mile east of Bassenthwaite Lake. The lake is the most northerly of the lakes and is also one of the largest.
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