Keswick is one of the prettiest places in the Lake District. Situated near the scenic Derwentwater lake, this stunning village is a popular year-round destination for people of all ages. With rich history and culture, beautiful surroundings, as well as a huge variety of things to see and do, it’s easy to see why Keswick is a top destination.

Image credit: Neil Turner on Flickr
Keswick is perfect if you’re looking for an authentic Lake District experience and outdoor pursuits. Here’s our guide for things to do in Keswick…
Derwent Pencil Museum
Derwent Pencil Museum is famously known as being the home of the very first pencil. Also the base for the Cumberland Pencil Company, who have been manufacturing pencils since 1832.
Inside the Museum visitors can trace the history of pencil making and find out more about the process of producing Derwent Fine Art pencils today. There’s also a coffee shop as well as the Derwent Pencil Shop, stocking every variety of pencil you could possibly wish for!

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Keswick Museum
Keswick has an award winning local museum boasting digital and interactive exhibitions. The displays tell the story of Keswick’s landscape, history and culture with a shop and great cafe. The museum is located in Fitz Park, a five minute walk from Moot Hall in the centre of Keswick. Check the Keswick Museum website for the very latest exhibitions, events and opening times.

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Catbells Lakeland Walk
Catbells Lakeland Walk is one of the most popular Lake District walks. Starting from Keswick Launch, this fantastic fell walk provides sweeping views over Keswick, Derwent Water and Borrowdale. As well as views to the the West of Newlands Valley and the Western Fells, this 3.5 mile walk is a great way to take in some of the most spectacular Lake District views.
Newlands adventure centre
For those that enjoy a little bit of outdoor adventure, Newlands Adventure Centre is near Keswick. From archery to rock climbing, kayaking to the high ropes course, the excellent facilities at the centre are another superb way to explore the area, with added adrenalin-fuelled experiences.
Derwent Water
Derwent Water is easily accessible from Keswick town centre and take just 15 minutes to walk to arrive at the lakeside. The area has a rich history which includes its inspiration for Romantic Poets such as William Wordsworth.
With viewpoints such as Friars Crag there are plenty of places to enjoy stunning views of Derwentwater and the Borrowdale valley. The viewpoint is one of the most popular and well known beauty spots in the Lake District.

Theatre by the Lake
Fans of the stage and screen will love Theatre by the Lake which is set on the shores of Derwentwater in a very unique location. The award-winning and critically acclaimed theatre hosts a variety of plays across two stages. Plan your visit by checking the Theatre by the Lake website and checking the what’s on guide.
The Puzzling Place
For those looking for something a little bit quirky and unusual The Puzzling Place fits the bill! This fun and eye-opening attraction is based on optical illusions and other strange phenomena that will guarantee to surprise and amaze its visitors!
Main header photo credit: Powershift2012 on Flickr
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