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Ideally located at the northern end of Derwentwater, Keswick is one of the Lake District National Park's most northerly towns. Surrounded by fells including Skiddaw and Blencathra, it's popular with hikers who come for its vibrant feel, with plenty of shops, cafes, bars and restaurants; and easy access to beautiful walking routes. It's also a great spot from which to explore this part of the National Park, including the valleys of Borrowdale and Buttermere.
Rigth in the heart of the Lake District, at the same time Keswick is just 20 minutes from the M6 motorway, making it easy to reach. It's also accessible by bus, with regular services from places like Penrith train station and the south Lakes via the 555 bus route - one of the most scenic in the country! Nearby, you'll also find lakes and waters like Bassenthwaite, Thirlmere and Ullswater. Fancy a hike? There are Wainwrights including Latrigg, Cat Bells, Walla Crag and Skiddaw, as well as lower level routes including a walk around the entire of Derwentwater.
Did you know? Derwentwater once starred on the big screen! Alongside Bassenthwaite, it played the roll of the forested planet of Takodana in Star Wars: The Force Awakens.
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'. The market charter, granted by Edward I, continues to this day with the popular Keswick Market attracting locals and visitors, and taking place every Thursday and Saturday.
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. Visitors can still learn about the not so humble pencil at the Derwent Pencil Museum.
In the centre of Keswick's Market Square stands the Moot Hall: a prominent, Grade II* listed historic building, which was built in 1813 and has an unusual one-handed clock. The current building in Keswick replaced older structures dating back to 1571. It has undergone multiple uses over the centuries, functioning as a manorial courtroom, a copper store, a market hall, a local seat of government and prior to Jan 2026, a Tourist Information Centre. It is understood the building is due to be turned into a cafe.
There is lots to do in Keswick, whether you're looking for outdoor adventure, a cultural escape, or simply want to explore this pretty market town.
Head to Theatre by the Lake for live theatre in a stunning setting on the shores of Derwentwater. Visit Keswick Museum to learn more about the town's history, enjoy a stroll around one of its pretty parks, or shop til you drop on its high street which is bustling with independent and national names.
Try your hand at a new skill, with outdoor adventure centres offering everything from archery to axe throwing; give watersports a go with a local guide; or head to nearby Whinlatter Forest for mountain bike trails, treetop adventures and more. This is also a fantastic place to explore on two wheels, with bike hire and cycling routes aplenty. Save the date for the annual Keswick Mountain Festival, which includes competitive races, live music, food stalls and a celebration of the great outdoors.
On Saturday 3 July 2027, Keswick will host a Stage 2 Start for the Tour de France Grand Départ - a once in a generation event not to be missed. Learn more here.
There are lots of places to eat and drink in and around Keswick, from cosy country pubs to Michelin star dining. In the town centre you'll find cafes serving speciality coffee and matcha, traditional tearooms offering home baked scones and a pot of tea, pubs like The Royal Oak, afternoon tea with a twist at Cafe Hope,and plenty more. Nearby, the Lingholm Kitchen serves brunch and lunch on the same estate where Beatrix Potter found inspiraton for Mr McGregor's garden in The Tale of Peter Rabbit.
In the nearby Borrowdale Valley, visit places like Mary Mount Hotel, The Borrowdale Hotel, The Royal Oak Rosthwaite and Borrowdale Gates for dining with a view.
Michelin star dining can be found at The Cottage in the Wood, located in Whinlatter Forest and serving up creative dishes made using the finest ingredients from Cumbria and beyond.
Keswick is located in the Lake District National Park, on the northern shores of Derwentwater.
As a popular holiday destination, there are lots of accommodation options in Keswick to suit all tastes and budgets. From B&Bs to self catering cottages and apartments, lakeshore hotels to camping and glamping, you'll be spoilt for choice.
Keswick is easily accessible by car via the A66 from both the east and west, with easy access to Penrith and the M6 motorway which are just 20 minutes away. It's also accessible via the A591 from the south Lakes. For those travelling by public transport, regular bus services connect the town to key locations across the region, including the 555 bus which travels south to Kendal; the X4 / X5 which travel between Penrith and Workington; and the 553/553 which travel north to Carlisle. The closest mainline railway station is located at Penrith.
There are several public car parks in Keswick, alongside various short-stay disc parking zones on the streets. Visitors should note that parking regulations are strictly enforced, so it's important to check ticket expiry times carefully.
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.
Castlerigg Stone Circle - 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 - 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. There's an accessible path to a bench offering stunning views across Derwentwater.
Welcome to Herdy Keswick – a cheerful little shop in the heart of the Lake District, inspired by…
These adrenaline-pumping obstacles will test your physical and mental strengths. You’ll need to…
One of the apartments in the estate's Grade II listed Victorian house and steeped in history,…
Loweswater Agricultural Show is a traditional Lake District country show set in the stunning…
Set in Loweswater village between Loweswater lake and Crummock water. Rural setting with…
Newlands church, set in the midst of the lovely Newlands Valley, is a haven of peace and…
This short 8 mile road route uses country lanes to the south west of Keswick on a circular ride…
One of the apartments in the estate's Grade II listed Victorian house, Lake View exudes understated…
Step into the spotlight for an unforgettable Jersey Boys Tribute Night, featuring live…
Our Universally Accessible glamping pods and cabins are suitable for guests with and without…
Afternoon Tea on board the train at Bassenthwaite Lake Station offers a unique opportunity to enjoy…
The Horse and Farrier has an excellent reputation for good food from our hearty Lakeland breakfast…
Low Briery Holiday Park is situated just outside Keswick, in a beautiful wooded valley in the…
Raised in circa 3000BC, Castlerigg is perhaps the most atmospheric of all British stone circles…
The climb onto the main ridge of the High Stile Range is a bit on the stiff side but once you get…
Nestled near the tranquil shores of Bassenthwaite Lake, just ten minutes from Keswick, The…
This National Trust wood is a wonderful place to be - right by the lake shore.
Join us for a fun-filled evening of live outdoor theatre with Pinocchio performed to the stunning…
Full Moon Women's Circle in the Lake District The Full Moon is a powerful time for reflection,…
Have you ever walked on thin air? Get your heart racing while experiencing breathtaking scenery…
Stunning views of Borrowdale valley, Easy access to Keswick and Derwentwater, Luxury living in a…
North of Skiddaw lies an area of high moors and rolling hills. Bleak and lonely – these fells do…
Explore the waters of the Lake District at Derwentwater with us. Hop in a canoe and paddle through…
Enjoy hearty, flavour-led dining at Mary Mount, where generous portions, local ingredients, and…


The Lake District Where modern tourism was born
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Number of results: 272
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The English, Buttermere
A 17thC building, owned and run by family for 30 years. First licensed in 1735 as coaching inn. Apartments built in grounds 17 years ago and continually upgraded.
Portinscale
The Lodge is a spacious five-bedroom retreat set within its own private garden at The Lingholm Estate, offering comfort, privacy, and plenty of room to unwind. Designed with togetherness in mind, The Lodge is perfect for large families or groups of…
Bassenthwaite
Get up close and personal with our Alpacas, for participants aged 16 years and over. Alpacas are friendly and inquisitive animals and just like us they enjoy a bit of fresh air and exercise. Meet our five boys Hugo, Hector, Herbie, Dougal and…
Keswick
Camping Pods and Glamping have become very popular and here in the Lake District we can now offer a variety of accommodation here at Castlerigg Hall Caravan and Camping Park to suit most budgets.
Lake Rd, Keswick
13 Valleys celebrates the 13 unique valleys of the Lake District National Park which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site status, by linking them all together. You can choose between one trail distance: 2 Valleys (22km) and three ultra…
Cumbria
One of the Lakeland classics. Bikers have been enjoying this route since the dawn of cycling. A cycling club called ‘The Rough Stuff Fellowship’ record following this route in the 1920s on their trusty touring bikes.
Braithwaite, Keswick
Woodland Reset ~ The Conscious Self's Signature Nature Day
Come and join The Conscious Self for a wellness day like no other! Deep in the heart of the forest we will connect to nature and community!
Step into the woods and let your system exhale…
Keswick
Great exhibitions, activities, gift shop and café in a glorious park setting amongst the mountains. Giant map, musical stones and an immersive landscape gallery. Open daily 10-4.
Keswick
Busy Weekly Market with 80 stalls. Food, Crafts and Gifts.
Keswick
Crosthwaite Church has a long history and it is thought that Christians have worshipped on this site for nearly 1500 years. The present church was built in 118, with many interesting elements dating from the 12th to the 16th century. This church is…
KESWICK
The church is situated centrally in Keswick and stands out by virtue of its tall spire. The site for this church commands superb views of the surrounding Lakeland hills.
Keswick
When tragedy strikes, courage blossoms.
The death of a much-loved husband prompts a group of ordinary women in a small Yorkshire Women's Institute to do something extraordinary: create a nude calendar to raise money for charity.
News spreads fast…
Keswick
The Restaurant at The Borrowdale offers an experience shaped by its surroundings—thoughtfully prepared food, elegant interiors, and service that gives you time to savour it all.
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…
Braithwaite, Keswick
Iggety Ziggety Zaggety Zoom!
Walk with a witch and her cauldron and broom
Help collect the ingredients from the forest for a magic spell.
Suitable for ages 5+, pushchair friendly route.
No dogs sorry.
Booking essential
£8 per child (10% discount…
Cockermouth
Usually held on the first Thursday of the month, our wine tasting evenings are full of laughter and interesting topics for guests to explore. These are very popular and seats should be reserved in advance through the website.
Bassenthwaite Lake, Bassenthwaite
Guests at Armathwaite Hall Hotel and Spa can enjoy a full afternoon tea service from 12:30pm-5pm. Diners can choose from a selection of savoury and sweet treats, including sandwiches and filled mini brioche rolls, quiche, homemade cake, biscuits,…
Keswick
The Lake District is known for being the home of Rock Climbing, so why not try your hand at this extreme sport! Conquer a fear and get up close and personal with some of the incredible local landscape all whilst under the watchful eye of our…
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…
A superb way to the summit of Skiddaw, which takes in the fine shapely ridge, Longside edge, that extends north from Carl Side and is separated from the main massif by the deep trench of Southerndale. From a distance the crest of Longside Edge looks…
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