25th February 2020

Keswick’s natural attractions

There are many peaceful and picturesque walks in and around the Lake District’s most idyllic market towns.

Each route sending ramblers on a tour of some of the most stunning Cumbrian scenery, from vast lakes and mountains to babbling waterfalls and fells.

If you’re joining us for stay at one of our cottages in the area or are simply visiting, here are four of our favourite walks showcasing Keswick’s natural attractions that are guaranteed to delight and challenge.

Keswick – Castle Crag

In the middle of Borrowdale is Castle Crag, a small but stunning little peak that nudges out from above the trees and overlooks the valley glacier. From the summit, you can take in the views from across the valley and then enjoy the serenity of the shaded woods and river banks on the descent.

The route: a shorter four mile walk that usually takes around two hours. Castle Crag is a very accessible Cumbrian ramble.

Coledale Peaks

The peaks that surround Coledale near Keswick are a silhouetted presence that ooze the mystique and magic of the surrounding landscape. As viewed from Keswick, they appear steep and angular, although the climb isn’t as challenging as you may initially think, and take a day to complete.

A classic U shaped valley, like many in The Lakes, the area around the peaks is completely uninhabited by people, which has helped lay on a wild and natural feel If you stick to the skyline you will see Kinn, Sleet How, Crag Hill and Sand Hill, amongst others. The true destination point is Gasmoor, which offers stunning views of the entire area.

The route: a longer 11 mile walk that should take seven or eight hours. The Coledale Peaks walk will require some energy, determination, sturdy walking boots and a tasty lunch to enjoy along the way!

Cat Bells, Maiden Moor & High Spy

Down the western flank of Borrowdale are three small peaks (each well worth a visit) with their own distinct profiles and character. Accessible through a long ridge, the descent and climb between each peak isn’t severe, which makes hitting all three in one trip a manageable 5-6 hour expedition.

On either side of the ridge, the local wildlife and scenery offers panoramic views, from the Skiddaw fells to the Newlands Valley and the rarely visited and almost secretive hanging corries and crags.

The route: this walk requires a bit of travelling; namely, a water bus from the lake shore, to get to the perfect starting point for the 9 mile hike.

Watendlath & the Bowder Stone

The circular path from Keswick to Bowder Stone, Watendlath and back again takes you high amongst the fells and into the secluded valleys to the east of Barrowdale.

The hidden hamlet of Watendlath is surrounded by trees, crags and a criss-cross of dry stone marked fields and pastures and is the perfect stop-off point, before visiting the 2000 ton Bowder Stone and the villages of Grange and Rosthwaite and tackling the steep descent at High Lodore.

The route: the best starting point for this walk requires a ramble down to the idyllic Lake Derwentwater. From there, hop on one of the regular water buses and await what promises to be an invigorating 8 mile walk around Keswick and the surrounding countryside.

If you’re planning a visit to the Lake District, why not book a stay in on of our Lakeland cottages and uncover Keswick’s natural attractions.