It’s easy to think it’s all about the great outdoors when you’re in Keswick, but there’s a whole lot more to this interesting town, with something on offer for every visitor.
Here is just a small selection of the area’s most popular attractions.
1. Keswick Museum and Art Gallery
The museum is something of a classic, with elderly glass displays preserving a fascinating array of artefacts ranging from antique climbing equipment to lion’s teeth. Under cover in the literary room are various letters, and memorabilia from the likes of Wordsworth, De Quincey, Coleridge, Walpole and Ruskin. The museum and art gallery is located in Fitz Park and is open daily from Easter to October.
2. Cumberland Pencil Museum
Keswick has a long history as an important pencil-making town, dating back as far as the 16th century. Find out all about this long and complex history, along with everything you will ever need to know about pencil manufacturing – and the chance to view the world’s largest pencil – by visiting the museum which is located close to Greta Bridge, west of Main Street.
3. Crosthwaite
Passing over Greta Bridge, it’s a 15-minute walk down High Hill and Church Street to reach the tiny parish of Crosthwaite and its historic church. There is evidence here that dates back as far as 553 AD, although the current church structure was rebuilt in 1523. The poet Robert Southey is buried here, alongside his wife and children. Next to the church is the Punch Bowl, a traditional 17th century Lakeland pub, featuring original beams and open fires.
4. Castlerigg Stone Circle
Castlerigg Stone Circle is Keswick’s most mysterious landmark. Set atop a sweeping plateau, 38 boulders of Borrowdale volcanic stone – the largest of which is 8 foot tall – form a large circle, 100 foot in diameter. It is estimated to date back some 5,000 years, and many believe it was set up for some kind of astronomical or time-keeping function, but no-one really knows exactly what its purpose was.
Nonetheless, it makes for a fascinating spectacle. It is possible to reach the site by foot from Keswick, just follow the disused railway line to Threkeld and it’s well signposted. It’s a couple of miles but an easy walk; alternatively there are 2 buses a day to take you there.
5. Derwentwater Lake Cruises
What better way to travel around the Lake District than by boat? Keswick Launch Company, located at the town pier, runs cruises across Derwentwater throughout the year. You can buy an ‘explorer’ ticket which allows you to hop on and off the boats at leisure.
The boats stop at various points on the lake where you can begin some classic walks including Friar’s Crag and Cat Bells. It is also possible to hire self-drive motor boats and rowing boats – perfect for a lazy sunny afternoon.
Further information on all of these attractions can be found at the Tourist Information or you can pick up leaflets from most hotels in Keswick.
Now that you know all the best things to do in Keswick, check out our page on Keswick Tourist Information or if you’ve decided to visit, Compare the best deals on Keswick Hotels