A shimmering jewel at the heart of the Lake District, Derwentwater is just a 10-minute walk from Keswick town centre. Flanked by the iconic Cat Bells to the west and the breathtaking viewpoint of Friar’s Crag to the east, its tranquil waters lead into the enchanting Borrowdale Valley, a landscape of towering fells and ancient woodlands.
Take in the scenery on the eight-mile lakeshore Derwentwater Walk or enjoy a 50-minute lake cruise with Keswick Launch, hopping on and off at seven landing stages to combine a boat ride with a lakeside stroll. However you explore, Derwentwater promises awe-inspiring views at every turn.
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Our Derwentwater lake guide shows you where to park, where to catch the Keswick Launch and where to hire boats, as well as the footpath that circles the whole lake and facilities like toilets and cafes.
Derwentwater Lake GuideThis town is packed with outdoor equipment shops and boutiques. It's a short walk to the Theatre by the Lake and banks of Derwentwater, just south of the town. There's a choice of cafes, restaurants and a range of accommodation in and around the town.
The Jaws of Borrowdale is an area at the southern end of Derwentwater. It includes the villages of Grange, Rosthwaite, Stonethwaite and Seatoller.
Nestled in the Borrowdale valley, this small village is the last stop before the steep Honister Pass. Walkers head out from here towards the high fells of Great Gable.
Northwest of Keswick, Bassenthwaite Lake is the only official lake in the Lake District and a designated National Nature Reserve. Dodd Wood offers scenic trails and seasonal birdwatching, with stunning views stretching into Scotland from the summit. You can take paddleboards, canoes, kayaks and rowing boats onto Bassenthwaite Lake, just buy your Bassenthwaite permit online for boating or fishing.
This reservoir supplies water to Manchester. The castle-like building along the east shore is the straining well. The level of the reservoir depends on water demand, so there's often a strip of barren shoreline. The small whitewashed Wythburn Church is centuries' old. Tip: You can climb Helvellyn from this side and avoid the ridges. Start from Swirls car park.
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This is a beautiful, 10 mile / 18km route with flat paths through woodland and along lakeshore with places to stop for picnics and cafes and the Keswick launch to if you fancy a short cut! Circular walk Derwentwater
Book your place on our free guided walks near Keswick and Thirlmere (Eventbrite)
For a long distance ride, Keswick is on the Coast to Coast cycle route 71. This is a great long distance cycle challenge which will take you from the Western coast of Cumbria to the North East coast of Northumbria.
For a family-friendly, accessible and flat route, the Keswick to Threlkeld Railway Trail is 10 km from Keswick, along the river to Threlkeld.
For mountain biking, five miles north of Keswick Whinlatter Forest has lots to do for all the family, including mountain bike trails.
We can help you with booking tickets and attractions, finding walking routes and places to visit, and we have a great range of maps and guidebooks. See us in Moot Hall in the Market Place, home to Keswick Information Centre.
