The 5 Best Things To Do In Keswick
Looking for the best things to do in Keswick?
Situated in the heart of the Lake District National Park and surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery in the UK, Keswick is one of the most popular destinations in Cumbria.
Whether you’re visiting for a family holiday, a walking adventure or a relaxing weekend away, you’ll find plenty to see and do.
From alpaca walks and mountain views to ancient stone circles and beautiful lakes, here are five of our favourite things to do in Keswick.
1. Walk Alpacas At Alpacaly Ever After
If you’re looking for unique things to do in Keswick, this is the experience you’ll remember long after your holiday has ended.
Alpacaly Ever After is Tripadvisor’s highest-rated attraction in the Lake District and offers visitors the chance to spend time with rescued alpacas and llamas in some of the most beautiful locations in Cumbria.
What makes Alpacaly Ever After different is that we don’t just offer one experience.
Walk Alpacas At Lingholm Estate
Our famous alpaca walks take place at Lingholm Estate on the shores of Derwentwater.
With stunning views across the lake towards Catbells and the surrounding fells, it’s one of the most picturesque locations anywhere in the Lake District.
Walking alongside an alpaca while taking in the scenery is something most people never forget.
Trek With Llamas Through Whinlatter Forest
For those looking for a bigger adventure, our llama treks take place in Whinlatter Forest.
These longer experiences guide visitors through forest trails, mountain scenery and hidden corners of the Lake District alongside their woolly trekking companion.
The llamas carry the equipment while providing plenty of entertainment along the way.
Meet The Alpacas At Basecamp North Lakes
Located on the A66 between Keswick and Penrith, Basecamp North Lakes offers a more relaxed experience.
Visitors can meet members of our woolly army before enjoying the award-winning farm shop, butchery, bakery, deli counter and café.
You can also explore the community garden, forest boardwalk and lakeside areas before relaxing with a coffee or homemade cake.
Every booking helps support our rescue and rehoming work, allowing us to continue caring for alpacas and llamas that need a second chance.
2. Explore Derwentwater
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 1 hour to a full day
Often called the Queen of the Lakes, Derwentwater sits at the heart of Keswick and is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Lake District National Park.
Visitors can enjoy lakeside walks, rowing boats, paddleboarding, kayaking and scenic cruises while taking in spectacular mountain views.
The full circular route around the lake is around 10 miles, although there are plenty of shorter walks suitable for families.
Whether you’re on the water or simply sitting on the shoreline with an ice cream, Derwentwater is one of the best places to experience the beauty of the Lake District UNESCO World Heritage Site.
3. Walk Catbells
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: Approximately 3.5 miles (5.6 km) return
Time Required: 2 to 3 hours
Catbells is probably the most famous fell walk in Keswick and is often recommended as a first mountain for visitors to the Lake District.
Although it isn’t technically difficult, there are a few steeper sections near the summit where you’ll need to use your hands for balance. Most people with a reasonable level of fitness can complete the walk.
The reward is one of the finest views in the National Park.
From the summit you’ll look out across Derwentwater, Keswick, Skiddaw and the surrounding fells.
And if you’re lucky, you might even spot one of our llama trekking groups enjoying the views nearby. It’s certainly not something you see every day.
4. Visit Castlerigg Stone Circle
Difficulty: Very Easy
Time Required: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Standing proudly above Keswick, Castlerigg Stone Circle is believed to be over 4,000 years old and is one of Britain’s most important prehistoric monuments.
Older than Stonehenge and surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery, it’s one of the most photographed locations in Cumbria.
Unlike many historic attractions, there are no barriers, visitor centres or queues.
Just ancient stones, open skies and some of the finest views in the Lake District.
5. Discover Whinlatter Forest
Difficulty: Easy to Challenging
Time Required: 1 hour to a full day
Whinlatter Forest offers something for everyone.
Families can enjoy shorter walking routes and wildlife trails, while experienced walkers and cyclists can tackle longer routes through the forest.
The forest is home to spectacular viewpoints, mountain biking trails and some fantastic wildlife.
It’s also home to our famous llama treks, giving visitors a chance to explore the forest alongside one of our rescued llamas.
From the higher viewpoints you’ll enjoy panoramic views across Bassenthwaite Lake, Skiddaw and the northern fells.
Why Keswick Is One Of The Best Places To Visit In The Lake District
Few places offer as much variety as Keswick.
You can spend the morning walking with alpacas beside Derwentwater, climb Catbells in the afternoon and finish the day exploring ancient stone circles or relaxing beside the lake.
Whether you’re looking for family-friendly attractions, outdoor adventures, wildlife experiences or iconic Lake District scenery, Keswick has something for everyone.
It’s easy to see why so many people return year after year.
Plan Your Visit To Keswick
If you’re planning a trip to the Lake District National Park, make sure Keswick is at the top of your list.
From alpaca walks and llama treks to mountain views, historic landmarks and beautiful lakes, you’ll discover some of the very best experiences Cumbria has to offer.
If you’re looking for amazing accommodation, we highly recommend Lingholm Estate and Basecamp North Lakes.
Lingholm Estate offers beautiful accommodation on the shores of Derwentwater, surrounded by some of the most spectacular scenery in the Lake District.
For visitors looking for places to stay near Keswick, Basecamp North Lakes offers stunning lakeside cabins overlooking the water, along with access to the farm shop, café, sauna and beautiful countryside right on your doorstep.
Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a longer holiday, Keswick is the perfect base for exploring the Lake District UNESCO World Heritage Site.
We look forward to welcoming you and helping you create memories that last a lifetime.
