Walking Around Derwentwater: One of Keswick’s Most Beautiful Days Out
Few walks capture the magic of the Lake District quite like the circular route around Derwentwater. Just a short stroll from Keswick Park Hotel, this stunning lakeside walk offers spectacular mountain views, peaceful woodland trails, hidden bays, and plenty of opportunities to stop for refreshments along the way.
Whether you’re a keen walker looking to spend a day exploring or simply want a leisurely route to enjoy some of the finest scenery in Cumbria, the Derwentwater Circular Walk is a must-do during your stay in Keswick.
Why Walk Around Derwentwater?
Often referred to as the “Queen of the Lakes”, Derwentwater sits at the heart of the northern Lake District and is surrounded by some of the area’s most iconic fells, including Catbells, Skiddaw and Walla Crag.
The circular route around the lake covers approximately 10 miles (16km), following largely flat and well-maintained paths through ancient woodland, open shoreline sections and peaceful countryside. Unlike many Lake District walks, the route offers incredible scenery without requiring any steep climbs, making it accessible for most walkers with a reasonable level of fitness.
Along the way you’ll discover:
- Beautiful lakeshore views
- Ancient woodland paths
- Hidden beaches and picnic spots
- Traditional Lake District cafés
- Historic landmarks and memorials
- Abundant wildlife and birdlife
Starting Your Walk from Keswick
One of the best things about this route is its convenience. From Keswick Park Hotel, you can simply walk into town and join the route near the lakeshore.
Many walkers choose to begin at Keswick’s lakeside area near the launch jetties, heading clockwise or anti-clockwise around the lake. The route is waymarked and easy to follow for most of the journey.
If a full 10-mile walk feels a little ambitious, there are several options to shorten the route using the Keswick Launch boats, which operate from various landing stages around the lake throughout the season.
Highlights Along the Route
Friar’s Crag
Often described as one of the finest viewpoints in the Lake District, Friar’s Crag offers breathtaking views across Derwentwater towards the Borrowdale Valley. It’s an ideal early stop and one of the most photographed locations in Keswick.
Great Wood and Lakeside Forests
The eastern shoreline takes walkers through beautiful woodland managed by the National Trust. In spring and autumn particularly, these paths provide some of the most atmospheric scenery around the lake.
Catbells Views
As you make your way around the western shore, you’ll enjoy uninterrupted views of the famous Catbells ridge rising above the water. It’s one of the most recognisable landscapes in the Lake District.
Southern Derwentwater
The quieter southern end of the lake feels wonderfully remote despite being only a few miles from Keswick. Boardwalks, wetlands and woodland combine to create a peaceful escape from the busier northern shore.
Wildlife Around Derwentwater
Derwentwater is home to a rich variety of wildlife. Depending on the season, visitors may spot herons, ospreys, red squirrels, ducks, swans and a variety of woodland birds.
The lake and surrounding woodland habitats are carefully protected, helping to preserve one of the Lake District’s most important natural environments.
Essential Information
Distance: Approximately 10 miles (16km)
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Typical Walking Time: 4–6 hours depending on stops
Terrain: Mainly flat paths, woodland trails and lakeside tracks
Best For: Families, couples, photographers and leisurely walkers
Starting Point: Keswick Lakeside
Stay at Keswick Park Hotel
After a day exploring Derwentwater, return to the comfort of Keswick Park Hotel and relax in the heart of town. Our central location makes us the perfect base for walkers wanting easy access to Derwentwater, Catbells, Latrigg, Skiddaw and countless other Lake District adventures.
If you’re planning a walking break in Keswick, our team is always happy to recommend local routes, hidden gems and the best places to stop for a well-earned drink or bite to eat.
Book your stay and discover why Derwentwater remains one of the Lake District’s most loved walks.