Whatever you enjoy doing, Keswick and the Lake District have so much to offer. Here are some of our suggestions for you to start planning your stay.
In and around Keswick and the Lake District
Visit Keswick: The official visitor website for Keswick will help you discover the many different things you can do while visiting. Plan your stay and discover the lovely market town of Keswick and our surrounding fells, valleys and villages. www.keswick.org
Keswick Launch: A cruise on Derwentwater is a very special way of discovering the Northern Lake District. Take the 50-minute round boat trip or disembark at one of the eight jetties and take a walk or find a lovely café or pub. www.keswick-launch.co.uk
Lake District National Park: England’s largest National Park is now a World Heritage Site, home to Scafell Pike – its highest mountain, Wastwater – its deepest lake and thriving communities like Keswick and Bowness-on-Windermere. There’s so much to explore! www.lakedistrict.gov.uk
Be AdventureSmart: If you’re planning a day out in the fells, ensure you have the right gear, check the weather forecast and ask yourself if you have the knowledge and skills needed for the day. www.adventuresmart.uk
Mountain Weather Information Service: weather information for the entire Lake District National Park, taking in all major summits, including Scafell, Helvellyn, Skiddaw, the Langdales and Old Man of Coniston. www.mwis.org.uk
Eating and drinking
There are lots of places to eat and drink in Keswick and a quick internet search will show you the variety on offer. Here, we share some of the places we have tried and loved…
The Square Orange: We love this place! Open all day for coffee, drinks, great tapas and pizza. No reservations are taken so you may have to wait for a table, and it’s so worth it!
Lake District Wine: Enjoy a glass or two of excellent wine and explore the menu of nibbles to share, or book a wine tasting at this lovely, relaxed wine shop and tasting room in Packhorse Court.
Barua Street Food: Open in the evenings at Lake Road Brunch, a super friendly team serving Indian street food designed for sharing and unique Indian flavour-inspired cocktails. Booking advised.
The Pocket: Welcoming bar serving local real ales, Cumbrian brewed lager, draft Belgian and German beers, and homemade sourdough pizzas. Regular live music.
The Fellpack: In their words… Innovative twists and fresh takes on classic dishes are served at our warm and friendly bistro. We agree! Booking advised.
Bar Es: Mexican inspired tapas in a relaxed atmosphere with a great drinks list. Extensive vegan menu. Booking advised.
Steaks of the Lakes: A family-run restaurant, serving locally sourced produce, with a focus on the provenance of farm-to-fork ingredients. Booking advised.
The Lingholm Kitchen: Our favourite place for a daytime treat with a fabulous lunch menu and array of delicious cakes in a stunning location. You can also book a special afternoon tea.
We recommend the both the Sultan of Keswick and Lakeland Spice for an excellent curry and Kingfisher for fish & chips! There are also plenty of cosy pubs, lovely cafés and restaurants to suit all tastes and budgets.
What’s On
Keswick offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the arts, special events and festivals. Here’s our guide to what’s on in Keswick. You can also check out the Visit Keswick events page.
Theatre by the Lake: We are so lucky to have this wonderful theatre on our doorstep! We are Ambassadors of Theatre by the Lake and are able to offer our guests £3 off full price tickets. Please ask us for your special discount code before booking.
Keswick Alhambra Cinema: Built in 1913, the Keswick Alhambra is one of very few UK picture houses to have been in continuous operation for over 100 years, and is beautifully refurbished. We love watching films here, and suggest booking especially on a rainy day!
Keswick Film Festival: Held in February, the Keswick Film Festival offers something for everyone across several local venues. A must if you’re a film buff!
Keswick Mountain Festival: For all you outdoor enthusiasts, The Keswick Mountain Festival held in May each year is for you!
Keswick Beer Festival: Great beer, local bands and a great atmosphere, both inside the huge marquee and outside on the wonderful green, green grass of Keswick Rugby Club. This event is held at surely one of the most scenic rugby grounds in the country, under the watchful gaze of Skiddaw, the 4th highest mountain in England. Early June each year.
Keswick Half Marathon: Said to be one of the most scenic half marathons in the country, the challenging course takes you around Derwentwater with an extra loop into the Newlands valley. September.