Lake District village: Keswick Tourist Information

The road north from Grasmere passes Helvellyn on the right, and Thirlmere on the left to reach our destination of Keswick, located at the far end of Derwentwater. To the east of Keswick is Castlerigg Stone circle, a prehistoric monument, circa 3000BC. The land it stands on is now owned by the National Trust and maintained by English Heritage. The purpose of the circle is not known, but there are thoughts that it may have been of ceremonial or religious significance. Walks in Keswick

From the low hill on which it stands one can enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding fells, Skiddaw, Blencathra and Lonscale.

To the south of Keswick is the Honister Pass, the slate mine is a working mine and visitors are welcome to take a tour of the mine, browse around the shop and partake of coffee and cake in the café. Say in a Hotel in Keswick

Keswick abounds with shops, guest houses, hotels and bed and breakfast accommodation. There are plenty of attractions, such as the Cars of the Stars Museum – home to some famous cars, for instance, Chitty chitty Bang Bang, and a James Bond collection.

A visit to the Pencil Museum is another interesting way to spend your time, the pencil industry was founded more than 350 years ago. The whole manufacturing process is explained and children can try out the different pencils and crayons in a specially selected area.

Take a cruise on Derwent water for a more relaxing type of sightseeing. The launches run regularly to offer a 50 minute round tour.

A very popular venue is the Theatre by the Lake, on the edge of the shores of Derwent water and boasting a professional theatre company. As well as theatre, it holds Arts and Craft exhibitions, produces music concerts and shows films. Beautifully placed for an entertaining night out.

Within easy reach of Keswick is Watendlath, a tiny hamlet and favourite beauty spot.
Set high up between the valleys of Borrowdale and Thirlmere, it is accessible by a narrow valley lane that opens up to magnificent scenery and a wealth of walks. The tarn is well stocked with trout, which makes it popular with the fishermen. Hugh Walpole used Watendlath as the setting for one of his novels, Judith Paris, in the Rogue Herries chronicles.

Whichever time of year you choose to visit the Lake District, the scenery will be different and spectacular, the colours of the trees in Autumn are some people’s favourite, while others prefer the Spring, but come rain or sun, it is always the right time.