Top 10 Things to do in Keswick

Things to do in Keswick

Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, Keswick is a charming market town that attracts visitors from all over the world. With its stunning natural beauty and rich history, there’s no shortage of things to do in this picturesque destination. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Keswick has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a virtual tour of the top 10 things to do in Keswick – so grab your hiking boots and get ready to explore!

1. Castlerigg Stone Circle

Castlerigg Stone Circle is one of the most popular and mysterious attractions in Keswick. This ancient site dates back to the Neolithic period, making it over 5000 years old! It’s believed that this circle was used for spiritual or ceremonial purposes by the early inhabitants of Britain.

The stone circle consists of 38 stones arranged in an oval shape, with a large central stone known as the “altar”. The stones are made from local slate and vary in size from just a few inches to almost seven feet tall. Despite their age, many of these stones are still standing today thanks to careful preservation efforts.

Visitors can explore Castlerigg Stone Circle on foot and take in its stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Whether you’re interested in history, spirituality or simply want to experience something truly unique, this mystical site is not to be missed during your visit to Keswick.

2. Lodore Falls

Lodore Falls is a must-see attraction in Keswick for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This stunning waterfall drops 100 feet into the Borrowdale Valley, providing breath-taking views and an unforgettable experience.

The falls are surrounded by lush greenery and towering rock formations that give visitors a sense of being immersed in nature. The roar of the water as it cascades down creates an atmosphere that is both peaceful and exhilarating.

Visitors can take a leisurely stroll to view the falls from different angles or go on more challenging hikes through the surrounding woods. There are also several picnic areas nearby where you can enjoy lunch while taking in the beautiful scenery.

For those looking for some adrenaline-pumping activities, Lodore Falls offers various adventure sports including gorge scrambling, abseiling, climbing and zip-lining. These activities will surely provide you with an adrenaline rush like no other!

No matter what your preferred activity may be – hiking, picnicking or experiencing thrilling adventures – Lodore Falls has something for everyone to enjoy!

3. Derwentwater

Derwentwater is one of the most beautiful and popular attractions in Keswick, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. This vast body of water stretches for almost three miles long and half a mile wide, making it perfect for rowing or simply taking a leisurely stroll around its shores.

Visitors can take advantage of several boating options available including sailing boats, motorboats, kayaks as well as paddleboards to explore the lake. The calm waters also make swimming an attractive option during warmer months.

For those looking to stay on land, there are plenty of walking trails surrounding Derwentwater that offer unparalleled views. Some paths lead through picturesque woodlands or up to high peaks while others pass by beautiful gardens and historic landmarks such as Lodore Falls.

The lakeshore also offers plenty of picnic areas where visitors can relax with their families while enjoying panoramic vistas across this idyllic landscape. With so much natural beauty on display at Derwentwater, it’s no surprise it remains one of Keswick’s top attractions year-round!

4. Fitz Park

Fitz Park is one of the most popular parks in Keswick, offering beautiful scenery and plenty of activities for both locals and visitors to enjoy. This well-maintained park features a children’s playground, tennis courts, and open fields perfect for picnicking or playing games.

One of the main attractions at Fitz Park is its stunning floral displays throughout the year. From colourful tulips in spring to vibrant dahlias in autumn, there’s always something beautiful blooming in this park.

For those who are looking to relax and unwind, Fitz Park also has peaceful walking paths where you can take a leisurely stroll or just sit on a bench and take in the views. The park is surrounded by trees which offer much-needed shade on hot summer days.

Additionally, if you’re visiting with your furry friend then don’t worry! Fitz Park also has an enclosed dog exercise area where dogs can run around safely off-leash.

Fitz Park provides a great place to spend time outdoors while enjoying all that nature has to offer. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, this park definitely deserves a spot on your list of top things to do in Keswick!

5. Whinlatter Visitor Centre

Located in the heart of the Lake District, Whinlatter Visitor Centre is a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. The centre offers an array of activities suitable for all ages, making it perfect for families or groups.

One of the most popular attractions at Whinlatter is its Go Ape high ropes course. This thrilling activity allows you to navigate through treetops, tackle tricky obstacles and zip line your way back down to solid ground.

For those who prefer to keep their feet on the ground, there are plenty of walking trails available that offer stunning views across Bassenthwaite Lake and beyond. You can also hire mountain bikes from the centre and explore some of the area’s best cycling routes.

The visitor centre itself houses an interactive exhibition about forestry in England, as well as a cafe serving delicious food made from locally sourced ingredients. There’s also a gift shop where you can pick up souvenirs to remember your visit.

Whether you’re looking for adventure or simply want to soak up some natural beauty, Whinlatter Visitor Centre has something for everyone.

6. The Puzzling Place

The Puzzling Place is a unique and entertaining attraction in Keswick that offers visitors a chance to test their senses with mind-boggling optical illusions. As soon as you enter, you are transported into a world of puzzles and tricks that will leave you questioning your own perception.

One of the most popular exhibits at The Puzzling Place is the Ames Room, which creates an illusion where people standing on opposite ends appear either much larger or smaller than they really are. It’s fascinating to see how perspective can be manipulated so easily!

Another must-see exhibit is the Anti-Gravity Room, where water appears to flow uphill and objects seem to defy gravity altogether. Visitors can even attempt the famous “Levitation Trick” for themselves!

The Mirror Maze is also a favourite among visitors, offering an exciting challenge as you navigate through twisting hallways filled with mirrors reflecting images in every direction.

The Puzzling Place provides a unique experience for all ages and abilities. Whether it’s testing your brainpower or just having fun with friends and family, this attraction should definitely be on your list of things to do in Keswick!

7. Kong Adventure

Looking for an adrenaline rush in Keswick? Look no further than Kong Adventure! This indoor climbing and adventure centre has something for everyone, from beginner to advanced climbers.

Upon entering the facility, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff who will guide you through a safety briefing before letting you lose on the walls. The walls themselves vary in difficulty, with some even featuring overhangs and caves for a real challenge.

But that’s not all – Kong Adventure also offers bouldering areas for those who prefer to stay closer to the ground, as well as a dedicated kids’ zone so even the little ones can get in on the action.

Once you’ve had your fill of climbing (if that’s possible!), be sure to check out their other activities such as high ropes courses and zip lines. And if all that physical activity works up an appetite, grab a bite at their onsite cafe which serves up delicious food and drinks.

Kong Adventure is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to add some excitement into their Keswick itinerary.

8. Castle Crag

Castle Crag is a popular destination for walkers and hikers in Keswick. It’s a relatively small hill, but it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The walk to Castle Crag takes about 2-3 hours, depending on your pace.

The path up to Castle Crag is fairly steep, but it’s well-maintained and easy to follow. Once you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of Derwentwater and the surrounding fells.

One of the highlights of Castle Crag is its history. The hill was used as a lookout point during World War II, and there are still remnants of old fortifications dotted around the summit.

If you’re interested in wildlife, keep an eye out for red squirrels on your way up to Castle Crag. They’re known to frequent the area and can often be spotted darting through the trees.

If you’re looking for a short but rewarding hike with beautiful views and interesting history, Castle Crag is definitely worth checking out while visiting Keswick.

9. Lake District Wildlife Park

If you’re an animal lover, then the Lake District Wildlife Park is a must-visit attraction in Keswick. This park is home to over 100 animals from various species, including zebras, lemurs, meerkats and many more.

One of the highlights of this wildlife park is their bird show where visitors can witness beautiful birds-of-prey such as eagles and falcons take flight. It’s a truly breathtaking experience that should not be missed.

Aside from the bird show, there are also opportunities to get up close and personal with some of the animals. The friendly staff at the park offer guided tours where guests can learn about each animal’s habitat and behaviour.

For those who want more adventure during their visit, there’s even a treetop trail available which offers stunning views of both the wildlife park and surrounding areas.

Visiting Lake District Wildlife Park will undoubtedly provide fun for all ages while educating visitors on conservation efforts made for these amazing creatures.

10. Great Wood

Great Wood is our final pick on the list of top 10 things to do in Keswick. As the largest mixed woodland in the Lake District, it offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

With numerous walking trails and paths for all abilities, this ancient woodland is perfect for a leisurely stroll or an adventurous hike. The woodlands are also home to diverse wildlife such as badgers, deer, foxes and over seventy species of birds.

Whether you’re looking to explore nature or simply relax amidst beautiful surroundings, Great Wood is definitely worth a visit while in Keswick.

There’s no shortage of activities to enjoy during your stay in Keswick! From stunning natural landmarks like Derwentwater and Lodore Falls to fascinating man-made attractions like The Puzzling Place and Castlerigg Stone Circle- there’s something for everyone here.