8 Best Keswick Walks in the Lake District

From difficult high peaks with breath-taking views to peaceful strolls around glistening lakes, there are so many Keswick walks to choose from.

The sensational choice of walks around Keswick are some of the UK’s best for families, lone ramblers and couples. Whether you’re looking for easy strolls, challenging mountain paths or something child-friendly, these Keswick walks have it all.

Discover your inner adventurer with these 8 Keswick walks below…

1. Catbells

First on our list of the best walks in Keswick is Catbells, which is also recognised as one of the most popular Lake District walks. This climb is short and rich in beauty, offering striking views of Derwentwater along the way. Reaching 451 metres in height, this is a simple but stimulating route to indulge in the true beauty of the Lake District National Park.

The route begins in Keswick town centre, leading towards the Cumbria Way, over to a steep but quick path up to Catbells’ summit. This trail is great for families and their four-legged friends, as well as solo ramblers looking for a fast climb.

Difficulty: Easy
Suitable for: Families, teenagers, couples, pets
Parking: Available in Keswick town centre

2. Castlerigg Stone Circle

Castlerigg Stone Circle offers an easy Keswick walk, littered with a deep history. Resting below an imposing backdrop of Skiddaw and Blencathra mountains, you are promised breath-taking scenery at every corner. This is a spectacular facet of Lake District history and English Heritage, recognised as one of the first British circles, thought to have been constructed around 3000 BC during the Neolithic period.

Start the walk at the centre of Keswick and follow the path towards the Keswick to Threlkeld Railway Path, before heading towards the stone circle, ending the route trekking over rural farmland.

Difficulty: Easy
Suitable for: Children, families, elderly, pets, couples
Parking: Near Moot Hall Tourist Information and Visitors Centre

3. Castlehead

Those looking for short walks around Keswick that offer stunning views will love the Castlehead walk. Another easy Keswick walk with incredible views of the glistening waters, the short scramble to the top makes the view even more worthwhile.

This route takes less than an hour, making it perfect for restless kids who want to reach the top as quickly as possible. This Keswick walk passes fabulous local attractions including the popular Theatre by the Lake and the beauty of Hope Park.

If you’re bringing your pet along with you, take a peek at the best dog-friendly pubs in Keswick here.

Difficulty: Easy/moderate
Suitable for: Families, kids, pets
Parking: Near Moot Hall (Keswick Tourist Information and Visitors Centre)

4. Latrigg

Next on our list of Keswick walks is Latrigg, one of the lowest fells in the Lake District at just 368m. Latrigg offers another short walk around Keswick where you can stretch your legs, whilst surrounded by tranquil countryside views. You can take a longer route starting at the centre of Keswick or enjoy a shorter stroll around the fell.

This is a perfect option for those with mobility issues or young children looking for picturesque and easy Keswick walks that offer amazing views without the strenuous legwork. It is recommended to start at the town centre of Keswick, heading northeast onto the Cumbria Way.

Difficulty: Easy
Suitable for: Families, children, elderly, pets
Parking: At Crosthwaite Road car park

5. Derwentwater

Bring the family along for a full day of exploration on this Keswick walk around Derwentwater Lake, a long but low-level route that’s perfect for a summer’s day. The best thing about this walk is the level ground, making it ideal for the elderly or those with mobility issues who don’t want to take on the whole trail.

Discover a wealth of beautiful attractions along the scenic route as you follow the flat pathways. Be greeted by cascading water at Lodore Falls, the National Trust’s Centenary Stone, and enchanting woodland within Brandelhow Park. Choose to undertake the whole 10-mile waymarked walk or stop off at a café or for a picnic in the nearby area.

Difficulty: Easy/moderate
Suitable for: Families, children, pets, elderly
Parking: Near Moot Hall (Keswick Tourist Information and Visitors Centre)

6. Walla Crag to Ashness Bridge

This is a great route for beginners looking to take on a moderate hill climb during their walk near Keswick, starting at Great Wood towards a tall cliff. Boasting views over Keswick to Bassenthwaite Lake and Skiddaw, providing a well-deserved treat on your inspiring ascent, before heading back down to the traditional stone Ashness Bridge.

Walla Crag is the perfect choice for a short Keswick walk when you fancy an early morning challenging stroll. Getting your body moving whilst enjoying peaceful landscapes and meandering through enchanting forestry, heading back in time for a well-earned pub lunch.

If pubs are your favourite endpoint to any walk, try one of our wonderful Lake District pub walks.

Difficulty: Moderate
Suitable for: Pets, new starters, teens
Parking: At Great Wood car park

7. Skiddaw

Explore the magnificent summit of Skiddaw as you walk up a strenuous path of narrow ridges to find stunning views down to the idyllic Borrowdale valley. Reaching a whopping 931m in height, this ascent is an arduous choice for ramblers who are keen to tackle one of the best walks in Keswick.

Make your way down an effortless track, boasting even more amazing views over the falls of Derwentwater and back to the start. Ideal for avid walkers who want to set themselves a tough but rewarding challenge. Once you’ve finished this spectacular Keswick walk, reward yourself further with a refreshing beverage at one of the best pubs in Keswick.

Difficulty: Moderate/Experienced
Suitable for: Adults, experienced, good fitness
Parking: At Keswick Leisure Pool

8. Helvellyn

Completing our guide to the best Keswick walks is Helvellyn, a not so easy choice, but one of the best Lake District walks there is. If you’re an experienced rambler, get ready for a challenging trip up this striking mountain, which reaches up to 950m above sea level at its highest point. Make sure to prepare for this extremely popular trail with plenty of water and food, as it can take up to seven hours to complete.

The ascent to the peak requires scrambling and steep hills up the captivating Striding Edge, with rewarding views at the top of the third highest mountain in England. Swirral Edge is an equally difficult but shorter route, ideal for experienced hikers who want to get back to their cosy Helvellyn holiday cottage in time for dinner!

If you’re looking for more outdoor adventure, enjoy a scenic drive over to Windermere to try out one of the fabulous Windermere walks there.

Difficulty: Advanced
Suitable for: Adults, those with a high level of fitness
Parking: At Swirls car park, Keswick

Check out our Keswick Travel Guide for more holiday inspiration, whether you’re searching for a leisurely break over sparkling waters or a tough challenge up rugged peaks in the heart of Cumbria. Don’t miss out on the amazing Keswick walks right on your doorstep during a memorable Lake District getaway, before heading back to a homely Keswick Cottage.