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Writer's pictureMatt Poulton

Best walks near Keswick



Cat Bells looking at keswick
Credit: Harry Johnson Photography



A picturesque market town on the shores of Derwentwater encircled by fells, it is easy to see why Keswick draws so many walkers, runners and hill-goers in each year. While you would struggle to find a dull walk around Keswick, there are certainly some routes that stand out from the crowd.


From days out in the fells, to long flat walks to gentle ambles to scenic viewpoints, here are the best walks to do near Keswick.


Disclaimer: these guides are here to give you an idea or flavour of where you can go or what you can do. They are not meant as walking guides and are in no means substitutions for navigation skills and proper preparation. If you are unsure of your ability to undertake any route, consider joining a group or hiring a guide. 


Catbells


On the western shore of Derwentwater lies this iconic fell. With its double-hump, it is easy to identify from afar and should you not wish to climb it, you can easily look over to it from Crow Park in Keswick.


If you choose to set off from Keswick, you will be treated to a long walk through beautiful woodlands before arriving at the foot of the fell. Alternatively, for a shorter day out, you can get either the boat to Hawes End, the bus to the bottom of the fell or, if you arrive early enough, you can park close to the fell.


A short steep walk, a few minor scrambles and soon you will be at the top, gazing over Derwentwater to where you began your trip. From the summit, you will get commanding views of the Skiddaw Massif, the Newlands fells and valley and Blencathra to name but a few.


Cat Bells
Catbells from Crow Park
cat bells and skiddaw
Catbells with Derwent Water to the right and the Skiddaw Massif beyond
Derwent Water and Keswick from Cat Bells
Derwentwater and Keswick from Catbells
Borrowdale and Derwentwater from Cat Bells
Borrowdale and Derwentwater from Cat Bells

Skiddaw


From Keswick, it is near impossible to miss the towering bulk of Skiddaw. At over 3,000ft high, not only is it by far the highest walk on this list, but also one of the tallest fells in the Lake District. Despite its height, it is one of the easier high fells, with a large path taking you up the fell. Starting either from Keswick or from Latrigg Carpark, this walk is a real test of your endurance that pays off with stunning views.

From the summit of Skiddaw, you can look across to the great expanse of seemingly empty land that makes up Skiddaw forest to the slopes across to Blencathra beyond, or you can look over to the Coledale and Newland fells laid out before of you.


For those wanting a longer walk, you can combine this route with Skiddaw Little Man, or, for the serious walker, have a go at the Skiddaw Horseshoe.


Skiddaw Massif
The Skiddaw Massif

Skiddaw from Derwentwater
Skiddaw from Derwentwater

keswick
Keswick below, shrouded in cloud



Walla Crag


This diminutive fell lies on the eastern side of Derwentwater and, while small, gives mighty views. Best walked from Great Wood carpark, you will go through thick woodland, before rising above the treeline and out onto the fell.


From the summit, you can look across Derwentwater and its many islands, over to the Newlands fells or down into the jaws of Borrowdale. Should you want to extend the route, a short walk towards Bleaberry Fell opens up views of Castle Crag and the high fells behind it.

walla crag
Across Derwentwater from the summit

jaws of borrowdale
The Jaws of Borrowdale from the summit of Walla Crag
walla crag
Castle Crag and the High Fells from beyond Walla Crag


Derwentwater


If you aren't looking to venture into the fells, a walk around Derwentwater is a great option for a fun day out. With its varied terrain, beautiful scenery and notable landmarks, this route proves you don't need to go up high to see beautiful sights.


From dense woodlands, views across the lake and glimpses of the fells, as well as hunting for the wooden hands and the semi-submerged Millennium Stone, there is always something to be looking at on this circuit. While relatively flat, there are some rocky sections and, if the water level is high, you may need to scramble over rocks to avid getting wet meaning good footwear is a must.


For those not wanting to do the full route, a circuit of Friars Crag from Keswick provides an easier alternative with stunning views across the Lake. An all mobility Tramper can be hired that can be used here as well, providing access for all.


Newlands horseshoe
The Newlands Fells from the shore of Derwentwater
Derwentwater islands
The islands in Derwentwater
Woodland on the shores of Derwentwater
Woodland on the shores of Derwentwater




Latrigg


Another small fell with a mighty view, Latrigg can either be walked from Keswick or via the Latrigg Carpark at the end of Gale road. while small, it is one of the best viewpoints around, giving clear views across the lake to the fells beyond.


Should you choose to walk from Keswick, a circular route through the woods, and up through the fields provides an interesting walk that is not too much of a challenge. For those looking for a quicker route, parking at the Latrigg carpark means a short route on a large path can get you to the summit.


latrigg
Latrigg from the side of Blencathra

Newland and Coledale fells
The Newland and Coledale fells from the summit
latrigg
Lenticular clouds from the summit of Latrigg
latrigg
The path leading down to Keswick


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