Things to do in Keswick
Keswick holds the distinction of being the northernmost town in the Lake District, and perhaps it enjoys the most advantageous location. Lying at the northern tip of the enchanting Derwentwater, Keswick is surrounded by imposing fells, notably Skiddaw and Blencathra, which rank among the favourite destinations for walkers and hikers in the region.
But it’s not just walking, there are plenty of other outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and natural wonders to be enjoyed in Keswick. If you're staying at Haven Lakeland Leisure Park, make sure to include Keswick on your list. To help you plan, we’ve made a list of the top things to do in Keswick for an unforgettable visit.
Derwentwater Cruise
Address: Keswick CA12 5DJ
Begin your Keswick adventure with a leisurely cruise on Derwentwater, one of the most stunning lakes in the Lake District. The crystal-clear waters are surrounded by dramatic fells and lush woodland, creating a postcard-perfect setting.
You can hop aboard one of the traditional wooden launches, operated by Keswick Launch Co., and take in the breathtaking scenery as you relax on the deck. Some cruises even offer informative commentary about the lake's history and the surrounding landscape, enhancing your appreciation of this natural wonder.
Cat Bells mountain
Address: Keswick CA12 5TU
The Lake District is a haven for hikers, with numerous trails catering to all skill levels. Cat Bells, a local favourite, offers a relatively short and rewarding hike with panoramic views of the region. The trail is accessible for beginners and families, making it a great introduction to the Lake District's hiking opportunities.
For more experienced hikers, consider tackling Scafell Pike, England's highest peak, or exploring the less-trodden paths around Borrowdale, where you can immerse yourself in the wild beauty of the fells.
Theatre by the Lake
Address: Lakeside, Lake Rd, Keswick CA12 5DJ
If you're in the mood for some cultural enrichment, don't miss the opportunity to catch a play or performance at the Theatre by the Lake. This award-winning theatre is beautifully situated on the shores of Derwentwater, providing a unique and picturesque backdrop to your evening of dramatic entertainment.
The theatre offers a diverse range of productions, including classic plays, contemporary dramas, and musical performances. Check the schedule to see what's on during your visit and treat yourself to a night of culture in a stunning lakeside setting.
Keswick Market
Address: Market Square, Keswick CA12 5JR
Immerse yourself in the local culture by exploring Keswick market, held on Thursdays and Saturdays. This bustling, award-winning market is a vibrant hub of activity, where you can find a wide array of local produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
Stroll through the stalls, interact with friendly vendors, and sample some of the region's finest offerings. It's a great place to pick up unique gifts, from handcrafted jewellery to artisan cheeses, or simply indulge in some regional delicacies like Cumberland sausages, Kendal Mint Cake and freshly baked pastries.
Keswick Museum & Art Gallery
Address: Station Rd, Keswick CA12 4NF
Explore Keswick's rich history and vibrant art scene by visiting the Keswick Museum and Art Gallery. This cultural gem offers a deep dive into the town's past, showcasing exhibits, interactive displays, and artefacts including Napoleon’s tea cup and other oddities.
You'll also be able to admire the works of local artists, many of whom draw inspiration from the picturesque surroundings of the Lake District. The museum's ever-changing special exhibitions ensure there's always something new to discover, making it a must-visit for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.
Castlerigg Stone Circle
Address: Castle Ln, Keswick CA12 4RN
Just a short drive from Keswick lies Castlerigg Stone Circle, an ancient and mystical site. This neolithic stone circle, estimated to be around 5,000 years old, is a remarkable example of early human construction.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Skiddaw and Blencathra, it's a place where history and natural beauty intersect. The circle's alignment with the midwinter sunrise and various lunar positions only add to the air of mystery and fascination to your visit, making it an excellent spot for photography and contemplation.
Derwent Pencil Museum
Address: Southey Works, Keswick, Cumbria, UK CA12 5NG
A visit to the cosy Derwent Pencil Museum is a delightful and unique experience for all ages. This charming museum, nestled in the heart of Keswick, offers an intriguing journey into the world of pencils and graphite. Discover the fascinating history of this humble writing instrument, from its origins in the Borrowdale graphite mines to its role in World War II espionage.
Marvel at the world's largest pencil and explore a vast collection of vintage and novelty pencils. Interactive exhibits and workshops make it an engaging outing for families, and you can even create your pencil masterpiece to take home as a memento. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a history buff, or simply curious about the world of pencils, this museum might just surprise you with the creative ways it manages to explore the world of pencils!
Hope Park
Address: 30A Lake Road, Keswick CA12 5DG
Nestled between Keswick town centre and Derwentwater, Hope Park is a delightful spot to spend time in. This beautifully landscaped park offers a range of activities, including pitch-and-putt golf, crazy golf, and a putting green, making it perfect for a bit of friendly competition.
There's also a lovely cafe where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a light snack while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding fells.
Whinlatter Forest Park
Address: Keswick CA12 5TW
For an adventure in the great outdoors, head to Whinlatter Forest Park, just a short drive from Keswick. This stunning forest offers a range of activities, from walking and mountain biking trails to a Go Ape treetop adventure.
You’re also sure to see a variety of wildlife during your visit, and you might even spot a red squirrel or two! The visitor centre provides maps and information, and the cafe is perfect for a post-adventure snack.
The Puzzling Place
Address: 9, Museum Square, Keswick CA12 5DZ
This unique attraction is filled with optical illusions and mind-bending exhibits that will leave you amazed and entertained. From the anti-gravity room to the hologram gallery, there's plenty to explore and enjoy. Don't forget your camera: there are plenty of photo opportunities that will have your friends scratching their heads to work out!
Start planning your Great British break
Related Posts
Best walks near Keswick
Things to do in Windermere
Best walks in the Lake District
Important information
New holiday homes from £34,995 – UPDATED 16 May 2025
*Holiday home price is based on a new 2-bedroom Willerby Ellerton holiday home and includes siting, connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2025 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 16 May 2025, price is available at Berwick, Burnham On Sea, Caister-On-Sea, Cala Gran, Cardigan View, Devon Cliffs, Greenacres, Hopton, Kent Coast, Lakeland, Marton Mere, Perran Sands, Rockley Park, Seton Sands. Price can be withdrawn at any time.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Pre-owned holiday homes from £19,995 – UPDATED 16 May 2025
*Holiday home price is based on a pre-owned holiday home and includes siting,connections and standard accessories.
Price excludes 2025 site fees, running costs and add-ons requested at point of sale. Subject to status and availability.
As at 16 May 2025, price is available at Berwick, Burnham On Sea, Caister-On-Sea, Cala Gran, Cardigan View, Devon Cliffs, Greenacres, Hopton, Kent Coast, Lakeland, Marton Mere, Perran Sands, Rockley Park, Seton Sands. Price can be withdrawn at any time.
Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times.
Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Let2offset - make no site fee payments until 2032 Let2offset is a contractual lettings product that offers eligible owners a guaranteed letting income at a preferential rate (calculated each year) in exchange for a stipulated number of letting breaks. It also allows eligible owners to pay their site fees and receive their letting income in 12 equal monthly instalments; the monthly site fee amount charged by Haven will be after deduction of the letting income.
‘Make no site fee payments until 2032 when using Let2offset’ is available at 33 Haven parks excluding Burnham, Cardigan View, Far Grange, Garreg Wen, Lydstep Beach, Riviere Sands and Seaview. The letting income received will vary by make, model and location. The monthly site fee payment does not include running costs e.g. utilities, rates & insurance.
“Make no site fee payments for until 2032 when using Let2offset” is applicable to new and existing customer purchases of new Victory Ashberry 3 Bed or equivalent grade holiday home purchases made through Haven where customers have also signed up to Haven’s Let2offset contract. It is not applicable to private sales and cannot be used in conjunction with our free Site Fee promotion. An example of how “Make no site fee payments until 2032 when using Let2offset” operates under Let2offset is the purchase of a Victory Ashberry 3 Bed holiday home at Seton Sands with a monthly site fee of £667.08 (includes purchasing discount of £17.08) and monthly letting income of £673.17. The monthly difference equates to £23.17, which will be credited to the owner's account. Both letting income and site fees are subject to yearly pricing reviews and the monthly site fee costs and letting income shown in the example are based on 2025 figures. Modelled assumptions on expected annual site fee and letting income charges over the 7-year lettable life of the Victory Ashberry 3 Bed indicate that under Let2offset it is anticipated that these customers will continue to receive a monthly credit during this period, however, this is not guaranteed. The modelled assumptions are based on the historical performance of Haven over the past 5 years of trading as of 2024. Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them. Site fees from as little as £130 a month with Let2offset at Burnham-on-Sea Let2offset is a contractual lettings product that offers eligible owners a guaranteed letting income at a preferential rate (calculated each year) in exchange for a stipulated number of letting breaks. It also allows eligible owners to pay their site fees and receive their letting income in 12 equal monthly instalments; the monthly site fee amount charged by Haven will be after deduction of the letting income. ‘Site fees from as little as £130 a month with Let2offset’ is available at Burnham-on-Sea. The letting income received will vary by make, model and location. The monthly site fee payment does not include running costs e.g. utilities, rates & insurance. Offer is subject to availability. “Site fees from as little as £130 a month with Let2offset” is applicable to new customer purchases of new Victory Ashberry 3 Bed or equivalent or superior gradeholiday home purchases made through Haven where customers have also signed up to Haven’s Let2offset contract. It is not applicable to private sales and cannot be used in conjunction with our free Site Fee promotion. An example of how “Site fees from as little as £130 a month with Let2offset” operates under Let2offset is the purchase of a Victory Ashberry 3 Bed holiday home at Burnham-on-Sea with a monthly site fee of £783.75 (includes purchasing discount of £19.58) and monthly letting income of £634.00. The monthly difference equates to £130.17 which will be billed to the owner's account monthly; to meet the site fee payment of £130 per month, an additional credit of £0.17 per month will be applied to the owner’s account. Both letting income and site fees are subject to yearly pricing reviews and the monthly site fee costs and letting income shown in the example are based on 2025 figures. Modelled assumptions on expected annual site fee and letting income charges over the 7-year lettable life of the Victory Ashberry 3 Bed indicate that under Let2offset it is anticipated that these customers will continue to receive a monthly credit during this period, however, this is not guaranteed. The modelled assumptions are based on the historical performance of Haven over the past 5 years of trading as of 2024. Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them. Site fees from as little as £160 a month with Let2offset at Lydstep Beach Let2offset is a contractual lettings product that offers eligible owners a guaranteed letting income at a preferential rate (calculated each year) in exchange for a stipulated number of letting breaks. It also allows eligible owners to pay their site fees and receive their letting income in 12 equal monthly instalments; the monthly site fee amount charged by Haven will be after deduction of the letting income. “Site fees from as little as £160 a month with Let2offset” is available at Lydstep Beach. The letting income received will vary by make, model and location. The monthly site fee payment does not include running costs e.g. utilities, rates & insurance. Offer is subject to availability. "Site fees from as little as £160 a month with Let2offset” is applicable to new customer purchases of new Victory Ashberry 3 Bed or equivalent grade holiday home purchases made through Haven where customers have also signed up to Haven’s Let2offset contract. It is not applicable to private sales and cannot be used in conjunction with our free Site Fee promotion. An example of how “Site fees from as little as £160 a month with Let2offset” operates under Let2offset is the purchase of a Victory Ashberry 3 Bed holiday home at Lydstep Beach with a monthly site fee of £939.58 (includes purchasing discount of £28.83) and monthly letting income of £751.17. The monthly difference equates to £159.58 which will be billed to the owner's account monthly. Both letting income and site fees are subject to yearly pricing reviews and the monthly site fee costs and letting income shown in the example are based on 2025 figures. Modelled assumptions on expected annual site fee and letting income charges over the 7-year lettable life of the Victory Ashberry 3 Bed indicate that under Let2offset it is anticipated that these customers will continue to receive a monthly credit during this period, however, this is not guaranteed. The modelled assumptions are based on the historical performance of Haven over the past 5 years of trading as of 2024. Images are shown for representational purposes. Access to holiday home is subject to park opening times. Park cannot be used as a permanent residence. Haven Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 01968698) and is a FCA appointed representative of Bourne Leisure Limited (t/a Haven). Bourne Leisure Ltd is registered in England (No. 04011660) and is authorised and regulated by the FCA (Financial Services Register No. 312847) as a credit broker and insurance distributor. Registered office: One Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire, HP2 4YL. We may receive commission from the finance provider if you enter into an agreement with them.
Owner’s 'Appy Meal Deal for £7.99
All day, every day* - collection only
Only available to Owners staying on park
Any pie, fishcake or large sausage, small chips, any side and a soft drink
Upgrade to regular cod or haddock^ for £3
Owners can use their discount on top of this offer
Only available in Cook’s venues and not from our Cook’s vans. Offer includes any pie: Minced Beef and Onion, Chicken and Mushroom, Steak or Cheese and Onion, fish cake or large sausage (choose from plain or battered) and a portion of small chips, any side and a soft drink. Sides include curry sauce, gravy, beans or mushy peas. Drinks include any soft drinks can or bottled water (excludes Coca Cola). ^Some of our Cook’s do not serve haddock - in this case, an upgrade to cod will be the only option of fish to purchase. Dishes cannot be changed or swapped for alternatives. Non-inclusive of upgrades or add-ons. Discount is applied if all dishes and drinks are purchased together, and this must be in the same transaction. Available daily, subject to venue opening hours. *Some of our Cook’s do not open for lunch trading. Offer is only available when ordering via QR code, app or website and for collection only. Offer is only available to Owners who are staying on park. Owners can use their owner discount on top of this offer. Offer may be withdrawn or changed at any time, without notice. Offer is valid March 2025 - November 2025. Prices include VAT. This offer can be used in conjunction with all other offers. Offer not available in any on-park franchises. Haven Holidays is a trading name of Bourne Leisure Limited. Registered office: 1 Park Lane, Hemel Hempstead, Hertfordshire HP2 4YL. Registered in England and Wales, no 0401166