The Lake District is a popular destination with visitors from all over the world, many of whom head to Windemere, Bowness and Ambleside. Keswick, which is a little further north, is a stunning market town that perhaps often doesn’t get the recognition that it deserves. Surrounded by the incredible peaks of Skiddaw, Blencathra, Catbells, Latrigg, and Helvellyn, you are missing out on some breathtaking landscapes if you haven’t visited Keswick.
Read on as we delve into great things to do in Keswick that you should add to your list. There are plenty, so you might want to make a weekend of it and book some local accommodation for a more relaxing trip.
Walking
It’s impossible to visit any location in the Lake District and not immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the area. Whether you are a novice walker or a seasoned rambler, there are plenty of different walks in and around Keswick that have something for every ability. Whether you want to scale one of the peaks, take the scenic route to the Castlerigg Stone Circle on the outskirts of the town or take a gentle woodland walk around the edge of Derwentwater, you will be rewarded with spectacular views.
If you fancy a forest walk, Whinlatter Forest, just 6 miles away from the town centre, offers a range of well-signposted walks and cycle tracks.
Museums
The draw of the great outdoors is powerful in the Lake District. However, sometimes it can be necessary to find indoor activities to fill your time due to inclement weather. Keswick is home to the Derwent Pencil Museum. This small and informative museum is located on the edge of the town on the site of the former Derwent pencil works. Learn everything you never thought you needed to know about pencils, take part in art workshops and try not to spend too much money in their incredibly well-stocked gift shop!
A short drive from Keswick is the Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum, which is also well worth a visit.
Shopping
Like many of the towns in the Lake District, Keswick is home to more than its fair share of smaller independent shops offering everything from outdoor walking gear to antiques, jewellery and speciality food. If you want expert advice on outdoor walking boots and waterproof layers, a trip to George Fisher should be at the top of your list. The Keswick Cheese Deli is the perfect destination for foodies who want to explore local produce. Keswick also hosts regular markets where you will find plenty of interesting items.
Other places of interest
If you are looking for something a little different, The Keswick Brewing Company offers tours that delve into brewing in the local area. The tour includes beer tasting, so it’s certainly a leisurely way to pass an afternoon, especially if your dad’s joining you.
A popular activity in Keswick is taking a lake trip on Derwentwater. The trip around the lake takes just 50 minutes, but you can hop on and off the boat as much as you like, meaning you can combine your mini cruise with a gentle stroll if you want.
Another thing you will find in Keswick is a wealth of independent eateries and small pubs. With an emphasis on local, fresh produce, you will be spoiled for choice when it comes to eating out.
Keswick has plenty of great activities to keep you busy, you certainly won’t get through everything in one day. Why not book accommodation and stay in Keswick for a long weekend to really soak up the atmosphere of this stunning, but often bypassed, town?
Image by Ian Procter from Pixabay
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