Visit the Wordworth’s childhood home to touch a piece of history, nurture your creative side and be inspired in an enchanted garden.
Take in this year’s new exhibition and explore the many interactive rooms before heading out into the changing tapestry of colour in the garden or choose your next read in our second-hand book shop.
Don’t forget to check out our special events and family activities on our website at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/wordsworth-house
Join in our events to get out on the water, explore the woodlands or learn about history and nature here.
Download one of our many trails, including our new accessible trails, and start your next adventure from one of our 8 car parks.
Parking fees go directly into our work to look after the rainforest, meadows, rivers and fellsides in Borrowdale. Members park for free but please remember to scan your membership card to redirect funds to the area.
To find out more, use the QR code or go to our website at: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/borrowdale NationalTrust 2024. RegisteredCharity no. 205846.
2024 has been another fantastic year and we have loved welcoming everyone, whether first time or returning visitors. The weather was certainly mixed, but so many of you tell us that come rain or shine, Keswick has something for everyone.
Sitting on the shores of Derwentwater and surrounded by stunning scenery, Keswick has it all. Whether you are looking for peace and tranquillity and time to just enjoy the views, or an outdoor adventure, our 2025 Guide has plenty of ideas for you.
We may be a little biased, but we really do think that Keswick is the perfect place to spend some quality time.
Helen & Freya, Keswick Tourism Association
Published by Bucket and Spade on behalf of: Keswick Tourism Association Limited, 50 Main St, Keswick, Cumbria, CA12 5JS 017687 75738 info@keswick.org
Photography & Content
Photographs in the editorial section of the guide are from the photo library of Keswick Tourism Association, its members, and staff.
Cover: Dave Massey | @Davemasseyphotography www.davemassey.photography
Our thanks also to the many visitors to the town who have submitted photos for use both in the Guide and online. Special thanks to Vanessa Metcalfe for her contribution to the content of the Guide. Follow us
Ten reasons to visit Keswick, the Lake District
1
If you are looking for a little bit of the best of everything that the Lake District has to offer, then Keswick has it all.
Lakes
One of the best ways to get your bearings for Keswick and the surrounding area is to take a tour of our lake –Derwentwater – on one of the launches. Hop on and off at the six jetties, or simply stay on board for a fifty-minute trip all the way around.
2
Views
Keswick and the North Lakes have some of the most dramatic landscapes in the country and it is accessible for all. No matter what time of year you choose to visit you will find each season has its own particular delights.
For a small area, Keswick is packed with interesting things to see and do, including our very own theatre, an independent cinema, a wildlife park, museums and historic homes. (See page 44 for more information.)
Adventure
Keswick has long been known as the Adventure Capital of the Lake District. With high adrenalin activities in abundance on the fells and on the water. A range of outdoor activities are listed on page 44.
Shopping
Keswick offers a rather unique shopping experience with a market, independent shops and galleries and plenty of outdoor clothing and equipment stores. You won’t find the usual high street shops, but you will find plenty to tempt you to make a purchase or two. (See page 45 for more information.)
Keswick and the North Lakes has a long and fascinating history for you to discover. Take a trip to the Castlerigg Stone Circle, visit Keswick Museum, the Pencil Museum and the Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum or discover our literary history at Mirehouse, Wordsworth House and Gardens and Wordsworth Grasmere. 3 4 5 6 10 9 8 7
Parks
History and Culture
Keswick is fortunate to have beautiful parks, close to the town centre. In Hope Park you can enjoy a gentle stroll among manicured flower beds or a game of golf. In Fitz Park you can enjoy various activities such as tennis, lawn bowls, a children’s play area or even watch a game of cricket. Crow Park offers space for picnics along with stunning views over Derwentwater to the south and over Skiddaw to the north.
Events
Why not plan a break around one of the amazing events and festivals that take place in Keswick. There is Keswick Film Festival, Words by the Water, Keswick Beer Festival, Keswick Mountain Festival and Keswick Convention, to name but a few.
Food, Glorious Food
Cumbrian food is renowned for its specialities, and you’ll find them all plus much more in our restaurants, pubs and cafes. We are also home to local producers such as Keswick Brewing Company and The Lakes Distillery and have plenty of shops selling local produce.
Relax
Luxurious hotels; cosy B&B’s; welcoming guest houses; home-from-home selfcatering; nights under the stars camping, glamping or caravanning; there really is something for everyone when it comes to accommodation. (See pages 38 – 43 for our full accommodation directory.)
Derwentwater is island studded and with Keswick on its shores, it rivals anywhere in the world for its stunning location and natural beauty. Half a dozen other lakes are within easy reach, each with its own special appeal. If you want to see ospreys and otters, try Bassenthwaite Lake. Visit Buttermere, Crummock Water or peaceful Loweswater for a lakeside stroll and a picnic. Climb the paths beside Thirlmere for stunning views. You might even be lucky enough to see them under the Northern Lights.
Valleys
Explore the winding lanes and ancient byways of the valleys around Keswick. Borrowdale, Newlands, Buttermere and St John’s in the Vale provide peaceful river walking through meadows and forests with tiny hamlets offering refreshments and accommodation. Have a walk on the wild side up Langstrath or watch climbers on Shepherd’s Crag as you enjoy the popular walk around Derwentwater.
Ramble Around
A network of local buses gives easy access to the whole area throughout the year. From Easter until late Autumn, seasonal rambler buses provide a circular route from Keswick over Whinlatter and Honister passes to Buttermere. Enjoy a fantastic open top bus ride up Borrowdale and back, or book an exciting and inspiring tour with Mountain Goat (tour company). There really is no need to use your car at all.
Discover Derwentwater
Walking – It’s 10 miles around the lake. Take a picnic or enjoy tea and cakes at one of the hotels and cafes on the way. Sailing – Enjoy a cruise around the lake on the launch, or hire a rowing boat, motorboat, sailing dinghy, canoe, kayak or paddleboard. Splashing – The lakeshore is perfect for families. Paddle, feed the ducks or buy the kids a fishing net.
Keswick is a great base for climbing some of the 214 “Wainwrights” – summits described in Alfred Wainwright’s famous Guidebooks to the Lake District.
The mountains surrounding Keswick are just the place for your next adventure, whether you want to climb the highest peaks in England or search out the best views and the most interesting routes. Scafell Pike, Helvellyn and Skiddaw are all within easy reach but so are dozens of other fells offering miles of glorious walking with spectacular views.
There are also plenty of great walks that don’t involve high summits, the terrace path on the slopes of Catbells, the walk over to Watendlath from Rosthwaite or climb by Grains Gill to Sprinkling Tarn, nestling beneath the craggy face of Great End. Long distance footpaths pass through too – the Cumbria Way and the Coast to Coast are the most famous.
Explore Whinlatter, England’s only true mountain forest. There is plenty for all the family, with walks and runs along marked trails, mountain biking on specialist tracks, WildPlay trail for children, Go Ape treetop adventures, a café and a visitor centre. The walk up to Lord’s Seat has amazing views of the Lake District and across the Solway Firth to Scotland.
You can find a whole host of walks for all abilities, on our website and accessible outdoor options such as outdoor Mobility hire.
Keswick is known as the Adventure Capital of the Lake District. What will your next adventure be? Whatever you decide, be sure to stay safe and have fun. There are plenty of qualified instructors to help you do this.
There are plenty of qualified instructors to help you explore the fells, Via Ferrata, Mine climbing at Honister or indoor climbing.
In The Water
Derwentwater has several marinas dotted on its shoreline. They will take you sailing, canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing or paddleboarding. Rowing boats are also available for hire.
Cycling
Cycling is an incredibly popular activity, even more so now ebikes are more available than ever before. Keswick provides for both exciting off-road mountain biking tracks and great endurance routes over mountain passes. Whinlatter in particular provides some great mountain bike and gravel trails for families and experienced riders. There is also a BMX Pump track in Fitz Park and the Keswick to Threlkeld multi-user trail is a great place for a family bike ride.
Head For Heights
Activities available: The high ropes experience with Go Ape or the Infinity Bridge at Honister.
And There Is More
If all the above wasn’t enough there is paintballing, horse riding, fishing, archery, segways and much, much more. Visit the Adventure Keswick page on our website for more information and ideas.
Honister Via Ferrata
Kayaking on Derwentwater
Latrigg
Inside or Out?
You’ll find more than just outdoor adventures around Keswick. Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Family Fun
Discover a world of Wildlife at the Lake District Wildlife Park. Encourage little adventures with archery, orienteering and more at Rookery Woods (Keswick Climbing Wall). Pay a visit to the play areas at Whinlatter Forest and Fitz Park and check out the BMX track also in Fitz Park.
Rainy Days
There are plenty of options for indoor activities when the weather isn’t so good. Check out The Puzzling Place with its mirror tricks and mind-boggling puzzles. Perhaps you could pay a visit to the Pencil Museum to see the largest pencil in the world and find out all about how pencils are made. You can even spend time colouring and drawing while you are there.
Keswick has a rich history, in terms of its geography, industry and literature, and this continues to fascinate visitors. Castlerigg Stone Circle is a must for a visit. Did you know that it is even older than Stonehenge? If you are interested on our mining history, pay a visit to Honister Slate Mine, and Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum. Delve into our literary history with a trip to Wordsworth House and Gardens in Cockermouth and Wordsworth Grasmere, and learn about William Wordsworth, his family and his literary friends.
Keswick Museum
Keswick Museum has so much to offer and is a real handson museum. Play the musical stones, made using hornfels, a stone from Skiddaw. They have toured the UK and Europe and were even played for Queen Victoria. There are always lots of activities as you explore the museum that will keep everyone entertained.
Breweries & Distilleries
Find out how real ale is brewed on one of Keswick Brewing Company’s tours and then taste the finished product in their Fox Tap bar. You can also learn all about how whisky, gin and vodka are made at the Lakes Distillery and even try the odd sample too.
Historical Homes
Step inside Mirehouse and Gardens, explore the nature trails or stroll along the poetry walk and discover its strong literary connections with Tennyson, Edward Fitzgerald, Thomas Carlyle and William Wordsworth. Visit Wordsworth’s birthplace at Wordsworth House and Gardens in Cockermouth and the delightful Dove Cottage in Grasmere where he lived in later years.
Retail Therapy
There are more outdoor shops per square foot than you will find anywhere else in Britain, but that’s not all that Keswick has to offer. There is also an amazing variety of small, independent shops and galleries to explore. Wander through original and quirky shops for some rather unique retail therapy.
Inspired Art
Artists inspired by the landscape create handmade jewellery, mosaics, sculptures, paintings, and these treasures can be found in our wonderful galleries. If you are inspired to create your own piece of art, why not take a look at the workshops on offer at The Makers Mill in Keswick, Quirky Workshops at Greystoke Craft Garden and Barns.
Food is so important when you are on holiday, and you will be pleased to know that Keswick has everything from bar meals to fine dining. You will find Cumbrian specialities plus much, much more while you enjoy a relaxing evening.
Pubs & Bars
Sample locally brewed beers and enjoy live music in our fantastic array of traditional Lakeland pubs and stylish bars. There is plenty of outside seating for warm summer evenings and warming open fires for when it turns chilly.
Cinema
Keswick is fortunate to have a traditional, independent cinema where you can sink into plush velvet seats and enjoy a movie. Open seven days a week, all year round (including Christmas Day), this little gem of a cinema brings blockbuster movies and the best of film from around the world to its two screens. At Rheged, just outside Penrith, you will find another cinema where you can enjoy a big screen, immersive experience.
Theatre
Theatre by the Lake presents a full and varied programme all year round. You will find classic, modern and new plays alongside music, comedy, family theatre, community shows and locally produced theatre. What more could you ask for?
One of Britain's most impressive prehistoric monuments sits on a low hill to the east of Keswick with a ring of mountains surrounding it. Castlerigg Stone Circle is one of the earliest stone circles to be found in Britain and is important in terms of megalithic astronomy and geometry.
Castlerigg stands on a superb natural plateau commanding a superb 360 degree view over the surrounding fells. It is composed of 38 free standing stones, some up to 3 metres (10 feet) high. It is one of Britain's earliest stone circles dating back to the Neolithic period 4000 to 5000 years ago.
The original purpose of the site is unknown. It could have been used as a trading post. Three stone axes have been discovered inside the circle. In the Neolithic period axes were made from volcanic stone quarried in the fells. Other possible uses include a meeting place for social gatherings, a site for religious ceremonies and rituals or even an astronomical observatory with the stones being aligned to the sun, moon and stars.
Castlerigg Stone Circle was one of the first sites to be covered under the Ancient Monuments Protection Act in 1888 and in 1913 it was acquired by the National Trust through the efforts of Canon Rawnsley. It is situated on land owned by the National Trust and maintained by English Heritage.
CASTLERIGG STONE CIRCLE WALKING ROUTE FROM KESWICK
STARTING POINT: Market Square Keswick
DISTANCE: 4 miles approx
TIME: 2 hours
NOTES: This route includes some sections on roads without pavements and a couple of busy roads to cross. Wear appropriate footwear as the return section can be muddy.
Scan to visit our website, to download this walking route and many others!
Welcome to England’s only true mountain forest. Whinlatter is home to stunning views, fantastic walks, exhilarating mountain biking, Go Ape adventures, spectacular running trails, rare wildlife and adventure play.
Welcome to Whinlatter
Set in the heart of the Lake District World Heritage Site, Whinlatter is home to jaw-dropping views, stunning trails and amazing wildlife. There’s only word to describe it – wow!
• Miles of walking routes, including our Wow trail with nature hide and forest bathing area
• Trail running routes (from 2.5km to half marathon distance)
• Exhilarating mountain biking (blue, red, black and gravel trails)
• WildPlay trail and Gruffalo sculptures
• Go Ape Treetop Adventure and Forest Segway
• Off-road mobility scooter hire available (book through Outdoor Mobility)
Come rain or shine, no visit to Keswick is complete without a trip to the town’s award-winning museum, next to the beautiful Fitz Park and near the popular Keswick to Threlkeld walking trail. Open daily 10am-4pm. On-site café open Wednesdays to Sundays.
i Famous musical stones
i Giant Lake District map
i Keswick School of Industrial Art collection
i Puppet theatre and the Three Bears
i Family fun activities arts & crafts, storytelling and trails
Station Road, Keswick CA12 4NF www.keswickmuseum.org.uk
Swinging Gibbons, leaping Lemurs and soaring Birds of Prey.
Take a walk through domestic rare breeds and feed the animals. Interact and learn with our experts: from Tapir talks to Reptile Encounters and magnificent free flying Bird of Prey displays.
Get up close and personal with a pre-bookable animal encounter: Alpaca walks, Bird of Prey Experience and Ultimate Animal Experience including meeting Tapirs, Lemurs and Meerkats.
Picnic, play areas (indoors and out) and cafe.
Just ten minutes from Keswick.
Open all year: 10.00am – 5.00pm (or dusk if earlier).
Galleries Shopping &
Enjoy browsing our many independent shops and galleries where you will find books, paintings, ceramics, jewellery, toys, bikes, foods & local produce. There is plenty of choice whether you are looking for gifts or treating yourself to a memento of your time in Keswick. You don’t even need to wait until your next visit to Keswick because many of our shops sell their stock online. visitkeswick.com/shopping
Whether you are looking for a cosy B&B, stylish hotel, self-catering cottage or apartment, or want to get back to nature and camp, Keswick has a variety of accommodation on offer to suit all ages, tastes and pockets.
Wherever you choose to stay, support the local economy by booking through www.visitkeswick.com (we don't charge any commission) or by booking direct with the establishment.
All accommodation in this guide has been assessed to National Quality Assurance standards (Visit England or AA) or has signed the Keswick Tourism Quality Charter. Further information about grading standards can be found in the Where To Stay section of our website www.visitkeswick.com.
Accessibility
All accommodation will have an Access or Accessibility Statement to help you make an informed decision about your stay. Please discuss your needs with the chosen establishment before making your booking. More information at www.visitkeswick.com/accessibility
Compliments, Comments and Concerns
Should a problem arise during your stay, whenever possible, discuss it with the management of the property first as they may be able to resolve the issue straight away. If the problem remains unresolved you can find information and advice on our website www.visitkeswick.com.
Keswick Tourism Association
KTA, publisher of this guide, is the independent, local, member organisation that promotes Keswick and the surrounding area as a holiday destination. It represents all sizes and types of tourism establishments and is committed to high standards of customer satisfaction. All bookings made through our website, visitkeswick.com, are completely secure and commission free.
Did you know that by booking via visitkeswick.com (we don’t charge commission) or direct with the accommodation provider you are supporting the local economy?
How to book your holiday
All of the properties listed feature on the official visitor website for Keswick and the North Lakes: visitkeswick.com
Inspection Abbreviations: AA: Automobile Association, VE: VisitEngland, KTAC: Keswick Tourism Association Charter
Location Grid References: T: Town Map (see p.50) A: Area Map (see p.51)
Pricing abbreviations: PRPN: Per Room Per Night
Award-Winning Hotel in Keswick, The Lake District.
We take pride in ensuring our guests have a memorable experience.
All rooms have been thoughtfully restored to o er the highest quality hotel accommodation.
You can sit in our beautifully kept garden and enjoy the panoramic views of Lake Derwentwater and the surrounding mountains. Alternatively, choose between our two relaxing guest lounges. Being on a quiet road you can enjoy the peace.
www.highfieldkeswick.co.uk
Best Price Guarantee when you book online directly with The Highfield
The hotel has its own private car park at the rear of the property.
There are 18 beautiful individually decorated bedrooms, all come with en-suite bathrooms.
Relax and take in one of the finest views in England. www.facebook.com/highfield.keswick
The Heads, Keswick, Cumbria, CA125ER
T: 017687 72508 E: info@highfieldkeswick.co.uk
Self catering accommodation
Accommodation Options
Lakeland Cottages • Farm Complexes
Town Houses • Apartments
Select the Accommodation of your choice or find a Holiday Cottage through one of the Agencies listed.
How to book your holiday
All of the properties listed feature on the official visitor website for Keswick and the North Lakes: visitkeswick.com
KEEP IT IN KESWICK - BOOK DIRECT
Did you know that by booking via visitkeswick.com (we don’t charge commission) or direct with the accommodation provider you are supporting the local economy?
Inspection abbreviations: AA: Automobile Association, VE: VisitEngland, KTAC: Keswick Tourism Association Charter
Location Grid References: T: Town Map (see page 50) A: Area Map (see page 51)
Pricing abbreviations: PUPW: Per Unit Per Week
A couples escape or family break? A two bedroom bungalow that sleeps 4. Walking distance from Keswick town centre (10 mins) and private parking. Enclosed patio garden, stunning views, immaculately clean and fully equipped, open all year. Gina and Graham Burn 017687 75582 | www.burnsknott.co.uk | info@harvingtonhouse.co.uk
KTAC | PW £659 - £1200
Keswick is proud to have been a Fairtrade Town since 2005.
Delightful, quiet two-bedroomed cottage by river and park. Mountain views. Three minutes from town centre. Garden, parking, Wi-Fi. Dogs welcome.
www.highskydes.co.uk
5 Millbank Cottages, Keswick CA12 5LY E marianne.hough@talk21.com T 07763 131540
PUPW £525 - £1100
direct at visitkeswick.com
LILAC COTTAGE
Highly rated, stylish two bedroom property near the heart of Keswick, with free parking. Within minutes walking of Keswick town centre, Derwentwater and the Fells.
www.keswickholidayhomes.co.uk
17 Elm Court, Elliott Park, Keswick CA12 5NB
E admin@keswickholidayhomes.co.uk
T 07975 597672
Well equipped, 3 bedroom bungalow with large garden and patio. Ideal base for exploring Keswick and the Lakes. Views of Skiddaw, Blencathra and Naddle Valley. Minimum age 12 years.
The Bungalow, Causeway Foot
A
www.keswickholidayhomes.co.uk
3 Chaucer House, St Johns Street, Keswick, CA12 4DR E admin@keswickholidayhomes.co.uk T 07975 597672
www.keswickholidayhomes.co.uk
Lonsdale House, Elliott Park, Keswick CA12
E admin@keswickholidayhomes.co.uk T 07975 597672
Keswick Holiday Homes
• Cottages in Borrowdale, nr Keswick
• Wood fired hot tub
• Short breaks available year round
• Well tended extensive grounds
• Stunning location and views
• Walks from the door to nearby river, lake, woods and fells
• Local bus past the door Easter to early November
• Glamping in our retro caravan and shepherd’s hut
Experience the best of the Lake District at Low Briery. Stay in our well-equipped lodges, cabins, caravans, cottages, pods, or apartments. Enjoy free wifi, parking, and bring your furry friends too! Close to Keswick town centre and Derwentwater, it’s the perfect base for adventure and relaxation. Explore the fells and lakes, plus dine al fresco with our new gas BBQs. Weekend, midweek, or full-week, we’ve got it all. Book now and create unforgettable memories!
Camping, glamping, caravans
Accommodation Options
Camping • Touring • Yurts • Lodges
Camping Barns • Holiday Parks • Caravans
How to book your holiday
All of the businesses listed feature on the official visitor website for Keswick and the North Lakes: visitkeswick.com
Complete Listings On Page 43
Location
Pricing abbreviations: PPPN: Per Person Per Night
you know that by booking via visitkeswick.com (we don’t charge commission) or direct with the accommodation provider you are supporting the local economy?
www.kestrellodgecampsite.co.uk
Kestrel Lodge, Bassenthwaite, Keswick CA12 4QX E info@kestrellodgecampsite.co.uk T 07785 500848
HOW TO BOOK:
INSPECTION AGENCY
V VisitEngland
A Automobile Association
K Keswick Tourism Association Charter
K* Pending Inspection - contact Keswick Tourism for details.
B British Graded Holiday Park
FACILITIES
k Children Welcome (Min Age)
p Parking (no. of spaces)
d Dogs Welcome
i Wireless Internet Access
b Single Rooms (no. of rooms)
D Disabled Access
BED & BREAKFASTS · GUEST HOUSES
Cumbria House
Dolly Waggon
Grassmoor Guest House
KEEP IT IN KESWICK - BOOK DIRECT
Did you know that by booking via visitkeswick.com (we don’t charge commission) or direct with the accommodation provider you are supporting the local economy?
Abacourt
Lake District Castle Inn Bassenthwaite, Keswick 017687 76401
Pheasant Inn, Bassenthwaite Lake Cockermouth 0191 6053334
The Countryside Code The Countryside Code
The Countryside Code
Your guide to enjoying parks and waterways, coast and countryside
Respect everyone
Countryside Code
Your guide to enjoying parks and waterways, coast and countryside
• be considerate to those living in, working in and enjoying the countryside
Respect everyone
• leave gates and property as you find them
Your guide to enjoying parks and waterways, coast and countryside
• be considerate to those living in, working in and enjoying the countryside
• do not block access to gateways or driveways when parking
Respect everyone
• leave gates and property as you find them
• be nice, say hello, share the space
•
•
• follow local signs and keep to marked paths unless wider access is available
• do not block access to gateways or driveways when parking
•
•
• be nice, say hello, share the space
•
Protect the environment
• follow local signs and keep to marked paths unless wider access is available
• take your litter home – leave no trace of your visit
• do not light fires and only have BBQs where signs say you can
•
•
Protect the environment
•
• always keep dogs under control and in sight
• dog poo – bag it and bin it – any public waste bin will do
Enjoy the outdoors
Your guide to enjoying parks and waterways, coast and countryside www.gov.uk/countryside-code
• take your litter home – leave no trace of your visit
•
•
• do not light fires and only have BBQs where signs say you can
• care for nature – do not cause damage or disturbance
• always keep dogs under control and in sight
• dog poo – bag it and bin it – any public waste bin will do
• care for nature – do not cause damage or disturbance
• check your route and local conditions
• plan your adventure – know what to expect and what you can do
Enjoy the outdoors
• check your route and local conditions
• enjoy your visit, have fun, make a memory
• plan your adventure – know what to expect and what you can do
• enjoy your visit, have fun, make a memory
Rose Bank Cottage, Causey View, Langrigg Cottage and Pinecroft
Barn, Cragside Cottage and Glenderamackin Cottage
Knoll
Swallow's Lodge, Shelley Cottage, The Ridgeway, Skiddaw Skies and Fairbank
The Tall House Keswick
Three Peaks, Millside, Stanger Cottage, Spa Cottage and Glen Cottage Braithwaite, Keswick
Tithe Cottage, Isabel Cottage, Sams Cottage & Greta Side Keswick
The Lingholm Kitchen and Walled Garden Portinscale, Keswick 017687 71206 kpcgdD
Mizu Pan Asian Cuisine
Borrowdale, Keswick 0800 840 1246 kpcD
Parkside Restaurant Keswick 017687 72072 kcg
The Pheasant Inn Cockermouth 0191 6053334 kpcdD
The Skiddaw Hotel Bar & Conservatory Keswick 017687 72071 kpcgD
The Wild Strawberry Patisserie and Coffee Shop Keswick 017687 74399 kcd
k Children welcome (minimum age shown in brackets where applicable) p Parking c Credit cards accepted g Groups welcome f Cafe/Restaurant d Dogs Welcome D Disabled access E EnjoyEngland Quality Award
NB: All dates correct at time of going to print. Please check dates on our website visitkeswick.com/whats-on/events
Getting Around
GETTING TO KESWICK
By Road
Keswick is easily reached via junction 40 of the M6 (Penrith) or the A1 and the A66. For a scenic route coming from the South leave the M6 at junction 36 and take the A591 through Windermere, Ambleside and Grasmere.
By Rail
The nearest railway station to Keswick is Penrith, on the West Coast Main Line. A regular bus service, taking forty minutes, connects Penrith railway station with Keswick Bus Station. The historic Settle to Carlisle Railway line brings passengers from Yorkshire via the Eden Valley.
By Taxi
Taxis from Keswick will meet trains at railway stations and airports by prior arrangement. Contact Davies Taxis on 017687 72676 for transport to Keswick. 4, 6, and 8 seated vehicles are available.
By Coach
National Express operates services to Keswick Tel - 08717 818181
By Ferry
For visitors from Europe there are sailings to Hull and Newcastle whilst from Ireland there are sailings to Stranraer. Journey times to Keswick are between 2 and 3.5 hours.
GETTING AROUND KESWICK
By Bus
Use the local buses and enjoy car free days whilst you are here. Timetables are available from the National Park Information Centre in the Moot Hall and on our website www.visitkeswick.com. There is also a Stagecoach app available to download for free.
By Bike
Cycling is an excellent way to explore the area. Several long distance cycle routes pass through the area including the C2C 71 There are a range of cycle trails in Whinlatter Forest. Take a look at our cycling pages on www.visitkeswick.com.
Bike hire available from:
Cyclewise Whinlatter - 017687 78711
Take a Tour
Sit back on a sightseeing tour and let the experts guide you to the best spots.
Why not see the spectacular scenery around Derwentwater from one of the Keswick Launches? Stop off at one of the boat landings to take a stroll along the lakeshore and catch the launch again further along the route. The various landing stages also provide an excellent starting or finishing point to longer walks up the surrounding fells. Keswick Launch - 017687 72263
Park and Sail
Pay to park at Keswick Rugby Club and receive a discount voucher for the Launch.
Parking in Keswick
There are several car parks in Keswick run by Cumberland Council and in addition locally operated car parks run by Keswick Town Council, Keswick Football Club and Keswick Rugby Club. Please see our town map on page 50 for locations of car parks.
BUS FARES CAPPED AT £3 UNTIL END OF 2025
Keswick Launch
SINGLE
Dove Cottage
Step into another century as you experience the sights, sounds and smells of Dove Cottage.
Museum
Discover the story of Wordsworth’s radical and creative life told through manuscripts, journals, letters and personal items.
Garden– Orchard
Stroll in the garden, restored to resemble the ‘domestic slip of mountain’ that the Wordsworths lovingly created.
Woodland
Explore our wonderful outdoor spaces using fun, family trails, encouraging play and imagination.
Viewing Station
Take in views of Grasmere vale from the Museum’s Viewing Station.
