Family Breaks in Keswick & the Lake District

Whether you’re after a gentle morning stroll or a full day of lakeside adventure, there’s something on a family break in Keswick for every age and stage.

Walks & Trails for Families

Keswick is wonderful for family-friendly walks, with routes ranging from flat, pushchair-accessible paths to more adventurous, full-on fell climbs. The riverside paths along the River Greta are perfect for younger children, with wide, easy trails and plenty of space to roam. 

Just a 20-minute walk away from the Royal Oak, you can explore the circular walk around Derwent Water, which is totally adaptable to how far and how long you want to walk for. 

For families with older children, gentle fell walks such as Catbells are a good gateway to hiking. The climb is manageable for most school-aged children, and the panoramic views (not to mention the sense of achievement!) are well worth the effort.

Cycling & Trails

Traffic-free trails and quiet country lanes around Keswick make it accessible for confident young riders and little legs alike. The old railway line path from Keswick to Penrith is 5km each way, and has relatively flat terrain so is ideal for mixed abilities. There are also plenty of scenic stopping points to break up the ride, including the River Greta and some original Victorian railway bridges. 

Even better, there’s a number of bike hire options within walking distance of the Royal Oak in Keswick so there’s no need to bring your own.

Boats, Paddleboarding & Water Fun

Spending time on the water is a highlight of any family trip to Keswick, and Derwent Water provides the perfect scenic setting. From there, boat trips are a fantastic option for all ages and can also help break up a long family walk. On clear days, you’ll also get to take in some stunning panoramic mountain views. 

If you’re away with older children or teens, paddleboarding adds a more active twist to a day by the lake, and there are plenty of options for beginners and experienced paddlers.

Whatever the season, a family stay at The Royal Oak is the ideal mix of fun, adventure and exploring for all ages. 

Family-Friendly Attractions & Experiences

One of the best things to do with kids is visit the local Keswick Museum. It has everything you’d expect from a long-established museum but with added digital and immersive displays, including VR headsets and interactive touchscreens that explore the Lake District’s landscapes and heritage. There are seasonal hands-on trails and family activities too so it’s always worth checking the museum events calendar on your trip. In a similar vein, The Retro Zone Museum is a small toy and nostalgia museum where kids (and adults) can explore vintage games and exhibits. 

Packed with optical illusions, holograms, mind-bending puzzles, hands-on exhibits, and so much more, The Puzzling Place is sure to be a hit with curious minds. Best of all, it’s barely a five-minute walk away from the Royal Oak. 

Nature & Wildlife Spots for Kids

From lemurs and meerkats to birds of prey, the Lake District Wildlife Park combines engaging encounters such as keeper talks, animal walks, and feeding sessions with amazing conservation education. It’s the ideal day out for any animal lover when you’re on a family break in Keswick. 

Little wildlife enthusiasts will love exploring the wetlands at Whinlatter Forest Park. With family-friendly cycling trails and clear walking paths, adults don’t have to stress about navigating while the kids can enjoy the Gruffalo-themed and keeping an eye out for red squirrels along the way.

Seasonal Events & Indoor Options

Keswick’s calendar is packed with family-friendly events and things to do with the kids throughout the year, including the vibrant Keswick Mountain Festival each spring. The range of sporting events, live music and outdoor activities are great for kids and older children. During school holidays, Theatre by the Lake often puts on family-friendly performances, storytelling sessions and creative workshops. 

If you find yourself at the mercy of a rainy day, head to the quirky and colourful Derwent Pencil Museum, where you can explore the history of pencil-making with lively exhibitions and interactive displays, as well as get creative and take part in some sketching sessions. 

Whether you’re after a hearty dinner after a long day exploring or searching for post-walk ice cream and a hit of caffeine, Keswick has something to keep everyone happy and ready for the next adventure.

Dining at The Royal Oak, Keswick 

Our restaurant and bar offer the same dog-friendly, family-friendly atmospheres and nothing but hand-crafted food made from scratch that champions local produce. Our kids’ menu is no exception with delicious yet simple choices that are sure to suit all tiny taste buds. 

Café Stops for Snacks & Treats

In the heart of Hope Park, you will find perfectly positioned spots that are ideal for a mid-play pit stop. With outdoor seating, homemade bakes and ice cream, it’s an easy win on sunny days.