Local Area

Enjoy this magnificent lake, 3 miles long, 1 mile wide and a focal point of the area. Discover the lake's four main islands; Lord’s, Derwent, St Herbert’s and Rampsholme with three smaller ones as well. Take to the water on a Keswick launch or wander along the Derwentwater Walk for 10 miles of glorious views around the lake's edge.

Enjoy our walk to Friar's Crag to see Derwentwater in all it's beauty.

Head back 3,000 BC as you take in the ‘Stonehenge of the Lake District’. Just 4 miles east of the town and with a gradual climb to the site it’s one that’s perfect for the family to tackle. Marvel at the 38 free-standing stones and capture an impressive shot of one of the earliest stone circles.

The charm of this walk makes it a popular one. Either walk the 45 minutes to the start or park up after the 5-minute drive. Walk across the iconic, pack horse, Ashness Bridge on the route and head up to the vista point that opens up to reveal the whole of Derwentwater. Don’t forget to venture out onto Ashness pier to finish.

Wainwright called it the generational walk in the area, making it one of the most popular. A mountain area of relaxed terrain and spectacular vista points just across the lake from Keswick; it's a family-friendly mountain trek with plenty of breathtaking rewards.

Home of the first-ever pencil you’ll see a variety of different displays each of them having a different significance. You can learn about the history of graphite, pencil making and the importance of the humble pencil. Visit the shop and take away a unique souvenir. Did you know that the museum is home to the world’s largest colouring pencil?

Venture into the last working slate mine in England for a day filled with excitement and exploration. Enjoy guided mine tours through the impressive site. Climb and follow the route of the original mine workings. Remember to wear suitable clothing and Honister Mine will provide the rest, including helmets and safety apparel.

An attraction for the mind. Head into the ‘World of Illusion’ where you’ll go through a selection of mind-bending rooms including the anti-gravity room, hologram gallery and Ames room. The puzzles will keep all the family interested, and if you’re determined to figure them out, you may be there for longer than you think!

These two mountains command the area and reward their walkers. Skiddaw is the landmark climb of the area with a 931 m-high peak and smooth slopes perfect for walking to the summit. Blencathra comes close behind at 868 m but is more varied for climbers with walking routes and numerous scrambling routes to the top. Both provide the ultimate sweeping panoramic views of the National Park landscape.