Six Walks to do from Keswick…

Its clear to see why Keswick is popular amongst hikers from near and far; the town is surrounded by mountains, woodland and a lake making it home to some of the most beautiful walks in the UK. There is a mixture of both beautiful, simple lowland walks and big, epic mountain hikes to suit all abilities in Keswick; here are a few to get you started…

  • The Derwentwater Walk 

Distance: 16km Time: 2 hours Difficulty: Easy

An easy, picturesque walk for all abilities exploring the shores and paths around the lake, The Derwentwater Walk is a signposted route, which takes you on a scenic hike with flat, easy paths through ancient woodland and along the shoreline. The walk starts at the lakeshore at Keswick Launch with simple navigation throughout by following the signposts. There are plenty of picnic spots and cafes on the route for refreshment.

  • Castlerigg Stone Circle 

Distance: 6km Time: 2 hours Difficulty: Easy

A short, simple walk starting from Keswick Market Square to Castlerigg Stone Circle offering stunning views of the surrounding fells and finishing at a historic site dating back to the Neolithic period. The walk follows the old railway path to the Stone Circle and returns via Spring Woods. The 38 archaic stones stand on a natural plateau and are estimated to be between 4000 to 5000 years old. A must see site in the area for history lovers.

  • Latrigg

Distance: 4km Time: 2 hours Difficulty: Easy

One of the most popular little hikes from Keswick, the walk to Latrigg is a leisurely trail for all the family exploring woodland, riverside paths and looking up over to neighbouring giant Skiddaw, finishing the day at the summit bench with a picnic and stunning views over Derwentwater.

  • Skiddaw

Distance: 16km Time: 5-6 hours Difficulty: Medium

Skiddaw draws the eye of anyone walking the streets of Keswick; it is isolated from surrounding fells and offers an unrestricted view from the summit, which is arguably one of the best in the Lake District.  The most popular route to the summit is Jenkin Hill Path. The route can be accessed from Keswick and explores a terrain of bridleways, steep grassy hillside and stony paths. Skiddaw is the sixth highest mountain in the Lake District and is over 3000 feet, making it an ideal hike for the days you’re feeling up to a challenge.

  • Walla Crag

Distance: 9km Time: 3 hours Difficulty: Medium

Walla Crag is a small mountain with huge views over Derwentwater and the surrounding hills. The route takes you to the famous viewpoint at Ashness Bridge and returns to Keswick via the lakes shoreline. The walk starts from Moot Hall in the Market Square and continues on paths with a mixture of rocky and grassy terrain. A great hike for beginners although there are some steep paths on route.

  • Catbells 

Distance: 6km Time: 3 hours Difficulty: Medium

Arguably one of the most popular Wainwrights, Catbells is a great beginners walk and is often many visitors first ever mountain hike. The route begins at Hawes End Landing Stage, which is best reached by taking the launch from Keswick.  The path is well signposted and maintained, making this an easily navigated route. Towards the top, there is a small scramble. The summit offers beautiful lake views of Derwentwater with the return route to Keswick following the lakeshore path.