Things to do in Keswick in November

When is your trip?

Navigate forward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Navigate backward to interact with the calendar and select a date. Press the question mark key to get the keyboard shortcuts for changing dates.

Looking for a different month?

Overview

November is a less popular time to visit Keswick. The weather is usually cold and slightly windy, with temperatures ranging from 40—47°F (4—8°C). There are plenty of events to check out and activities to try in Keswick during this time. Some of our top recommendations: go on a guided wildlife walk in the Lake District, take a scenic drive through the Lake District National Park, sample traditional Cumbrian cuisine at a local pub, and more!

Keswick has plenty to offer for visitors of all ages and interests. In this article, we tell you the top things to see and do for your November trip to Keswick. Get inspired by the events, activities, attractions, and experiences unique to November. We’ll let you know where to explore events based on your interests, whether that’s food, culture, art, music, sport or others.

We’ll let you know everything you need to prepare for the weather in Keswick in November. Learn about what to wear and pack for your trip, the average temperatures throughout November, temperature changes from morning to evening and much more.

Visiting Keswick? See our Keswick Trip Planner.
Your itinerary and your map in one view

No more switching between different apps, tabs, and tools to keep track of your travel plans.

Learn more
What users say about the app

Best events and things to do in Keswick in November

Top experiences in November
Go on a guided wildlife walk in the Lake District
November is a great time to spot a variety of wildlife, including red deer, red squirrels, and a wide range of bird species. A knowledgeable guide can help you navigate the best spots for wildlife viewing and provide fascinating insights into the local ecosystem.
Take a scenic drive through the Lake District National Park
In November, the stunning autumn foliage is at its peak, creating a breathtaking backdrop for a leisurely drive through the picturesque countryside. The vibrant colors of the changing leaves make for a truly unforgettable experience.
Sample traditional Cumbrian cuisine at a local pub
November is the perfect time to indulge in hearty, warming dishes such as Cumberland sausage, Herdwick lamb, and sticky toffee pudding. Enjoy a cozy evening by the fire with a delicious meal and a pint of local ale.
Visit the Keswick Christmas Market
Held in late November, this festive event features a wide range of stalls selling unique gifts, crafts, and local produce. It's a great opportunity to get into the holiday spirit and pick up some special souvenirs.
Explore the historic Castlerigg Stone Circle
Dating back to the Neolithic period, this ancient monument is a must-see for history enthusiasts. In November, the site is often less crowded, allowing for a more peaceful and contemplative experience.
Embark on a scenic hike to Walla Crag
November offers crisp, clear days that are perfect for exploring the great outdoors. The panoramic views from the summit of Walla Crag are particularly spectacular during this time of year.
Take a leisurely boat cruise on Derwentwater
In November, the lake is surrounded by stunning autumnal scenery, making for a truly magical experience. Sit back, relax, and soak in the beauty of the Lake District from the water.
Create your ultimate travel itinerary

Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.

Learn more
Holidays in Keswick in November
November
  • Guy Fawkes Day (November 5)
  • Remembrance Sunday (November 8)
Other notable holidays
Create your ultimate travel itinerary

Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.

Learn more

Weather in Keswick in November

Temperatures on an average day in Keswick in November

The average temperature in Keswick in November for a typical day ranges from a high of 47°F (8°C) to a low of 40°F (4°C). Some would describe the temperature to be cold. The general area may also feel slightly windy.

For comparison, the hottest month in Keswick, July, has days with highs of 63°F (17°C) and lows of 53°F (11°C). The coldest month, February has days with highs of 42°F (5°C) and lows of 35°F (2°C). This graph shows how an average day looks like in Keswick in November based on historical data.

Visiting Keswick? See our Keswick Trip Planner.

Historical temperature average in November
47°F
highs
40°F
lows

General weather summary

Cold, slightly windy
Feels like
49%
Chance of rain
0.162 in
Amount
19.7 mph
Wind speed
94%
Humidity
8.6 hrs
Daylight length
7:40 AM
Sunrise
4:13 PM
Sunset
31%
Cloud cover
Jacket
What to wear
What to wear in November
With an average high of 47°F (8°C) and a low of 40°F (4°C), it generally feels cold and slightly windy. There might also be a small chance of rain. With that in mind, most people would dress in something warm like a jacket and remember to bring an umbrella
Create your ultimate travel itinerary

Plan your itinerary, find lodging, and import reservations — all in one app.

Learn more

Best attractions for Keswick in November

Besides the array of exciting events and activities Keswick has to offer for travelers in November, we want to remind you of the classic attractions in Keswick that are great to visit at this time of the year as well! You can’t miss these iconic landmarks, local favorites, and places rich with cultural heritage. We hope to give you insights and inspiration into the best things to see and do to make the most of your visit. Here is a list of our top attractions in Keswick for November.
Derwentwater
1. Derwentwater
4.8
(529)
Lake
Nature & Parks
Bordered by fells & ancient woodlands, this 5-km.-long lake offers a network of footpaths & boating.
Slide 1 of 8
An amazing place to walk around, with great views. But make sure that you set off early as it takes a good few hours to do the full circle as we found out due to having to go a longer way due to flooding. However we did manage to get these amazing photos of the lake.
Beautiful place is derwent water i came here for a wild camp with my dog and had a great time. I did repair a couple of firepits someone had left. Have some respect for our beautiful outdoor space.
Beautiful place this with lots to do and enjoy clean fresh air. We walked around the Lake and it is a splendid area to stroll around.
We walked around the lake and it took roughly 7 hours. To be able to take your time and really enjoy the scenic points, I'd recommend 9 hours. You could get a boat across if you have people with you who aren't able to do the whole walk. The views around the lake are incredibly beautiful and worth taking some time to explore or relax.
Derwent Water : A Lakeside Escape from Keswick. 📍Lake District 🌊 Just outside the town of Keswick, Derwent water offers a scenic lakeside trail along the waymarked Derwent water Walk, this trail is surrounded by parks, mountains and breathtaking scenery. Families love gathering by the shore to feed the ducks, feed available for just 50p. Book a scenic boat trip (boat hire) at the Keswick Launch ticket office. 🍦 Treat yourself at nearby ice cream parlours and restaurants dotted along the route. Start your walk through Crow Park and Hope Park, then follow the trail to Friars Crag, one of the Lake District’s most breathtaking viewpoints. Don’t miss the bench overlooking the lake, a perfect photo spot with panoramic views. 🚙paid parking available nearby
Would have loved to be in a canoe today, water was so still and peaceful... lots of wildlife to see also .Wow !
Stunning!! Absolutely stunning! Visited late November. The leaves were off the trees so the views were spectacular! It's an easy 9.5 mile walk round. Clear paths. Very little climb and no styles. Short walks on roads. We went on a Wednesday, the weather was bright but cold. Lovely and quiet although I can imagine it gets very busy on weekends and holidays . Kettle well car park is National Trust so it is free to park for members. Lovely coffee van about a mile from St Mary's hotel.
Went a walk around derwentwater at the weekend.. It says 10 miles ,but my watch said nearer 14 miles .. Great views of the water and mountains.. It's all on the flat, so an easy walk ,.. There are plenty of places to grab a cuppa and cake on route ..
Catbells
2. Catbells
4.9
(796)
Mountain peak
Outdoor Activities
Steep 1,480-foot-high fell summit accessed via a 3.5-mile path with panoramic lakeland views.
Slide 1 of 8
Great quick summit trip for our 1st trip to the lakes. The sunset was amazing from up there too. Was a little busy for our liking, but there was an excellent view all around and the colours of the sunset.
A brilliant hike within walking distance from Keswick. As a ‘larger’ man, hill walking and hiking are not my speciality but Catbells provided a good mix of inclines which allow for plenty of rests if needed. The views of Derwentwater are great and the different routes to the summit provide choices for hikers.
Very recommend this hike if in Keswick. At one point seemed a but steep climb , but keep going , the views will not disappoint. Took me 1.5 hours to complete
A must-do, and perfect for families! The views are absolutely stunning — and the promise of ice cream at the end kept my kids motivated all the way. It can get busy, but everyone we met was friendly and respectful. The loop is about 3.5–3.7 miles with around 1,200 feet of elevation gain. It’s demanding but absolutely doable with a steady pace. Just be sure to bring plenty of water!
Elite, tier 1, lingering loveliness. Catbells is a stunning wee hike. Don’t front on it. Mix it up with a lakeside amble followed by a pint or three at the Swinside Inn makes for one almighty afternoon
Great views. Walked and returned from Keswick with Sid the Border Terrier. Little bit of easy scrambling. Descended via old quarry and along Newlands Valley.
If you're not very fit it's hard work but worth it for the breathtaking views. You need to take water and wear proper footwear. It's not as long a walk as it seems but it is a steep incline. I went on a Sunday when it was 20°c and it was very busy. Parking was very easy and £5 for the day, but it was on a field (bear this in mind if you're in a 2 wheel drive car in bad weather!). Easy walk down to Derwent water for a picnic, walk, or a swim if you're brave enough.
It was our first family hike. You need to be at certain level of fitness to do it. It is family friendly but at times it can be dangerous. I would highly recommend to have hiking sticks. It helps massively. Especially towards the end. At slow pace you can make to the top and go down in 3 hours
Castlerigg Stone Circle
3. Castlerigg Stone Circle
4.6
(6172)
Historical landmark
Sights & Landmarks
English Heritage stone circle thought to be 5000 years old, offering panoramic vistas.
Slide 1 of 8
Upon stepping through the fence, an immediate sense of peace and spaciousness washed over me. Something in the air felt different — as if it carried a quiet pull, connecting me not just to the mountains and fields, but to the animals, the wind, and perhaps even something greater, something beyond. The kids ran free for nearly an hour — climbing, tagging, laughing — while I utterly absorbed in the vast embrace of the surrounding peaks. As the sun dipped low, its golden light spilled over the landscape, turning every stone and blade of grass into something sacred. If you’re seeking a spiritual experience, this is the place to be. On a weekday around 6 p.m., parking was easy, the crowd sparse, and for a brief, perfect moment, we had the entire space to ourselves. In that stillness, the world felt both endless and intimate.
Castlerigg Stone Circle – A Mystical Gem of the Lake District! Castlerigg Stone Circle is one of the most atmospheric and awe-inspiring places in the Lake District — a site that beautifully blends ancient history, mystery, and natural beauty. Perched on a hilltop surrounded by breathtaking views of the mountains, this prehistoric stone circle is believed to date back more than 4,000 years, making it one of the oldest in Britain. Standing among the stones, you can truly feel the sense of timelessness and connection to the past that makes this place so special. The panoramic views from Castlerigg are absolutely stunning — the circle is set against a backdrop of Helvellyn, Blencathra, and other Lakeland fells, creating a magical atmosphere, especially during sunrise or sunset. It’s a peaceful, open site with no entry fee, easy to reach by car, and only a short walk from the parking area, making it accessible for visitors of all ages. What makes Castlerigg so memorable is its simplicity — just nature, history, and pure serenity. The site isn’t commercialized, allowing visitors to experience the raw beauty and mystery of the stones without distractions. It’s an excellent spot for photography, quiet reflection, or just taking in the stunning 360° landscape. Whether you’re interested in archaeology, spirituality, or simply want to enjoy one of the most scenic viewpoints in the Lake District, Castlerigg Stone Circle is an absolute must-visit. A place that stays with you long after you leave — calm, mysterious, and endlessly beautiful. 🌄🪨✨
Castlerigg Stone Circle in Lake District is a significant monument in Lake District which is approximately from 3000 BC. It consists of 38 stones, probably kept for religious ceremonies, astronomical observations, or a social gathering place. Its situated on a hill near Keswick that was formally preserved as an ancient monuments in 1883. It's surrounded by mountains on three sides that offers breathtaking view. Visited it as part of day trip. Highly recommend a visit to this monument
This 4,500 year old World Heritage Site is a really atmospheric and intriguing site to experience ... it may be small in scale but its landscape setting is just so beautiful... even in a damp June visit it was so good! Its poorly signposted btw and we used Google maps to get there.
Magical place with 360° views of the surrounding beauty...the stones standing proud and unfathomable....but the guide from English Heritage gave us some idea of the current theories!! Older than Stonehenge so more stories to tell but accessible and free plus lovely sheep share the field with you and the stones. There is free parking on the access road and a cafe just down the road with all the facilities you could need😋☕!! Truly a detour well worth making and really a shame to miss it if in the area🐑✨☺️xx
Visited Castlerigg Stone Circle for the 2nd time - it is absolutely stunning. The views are breathtaking in every direction — wide open landscapes, and a sense of history that adds to the atmosphere. It’s a peaceful, memorable place to visit and well worth the stop.
An interesting place to visit. Even on a weekday it was quite well visited. We caught the bus and walked up. Patience required to get a photo with no people. Some information boards at the field margin. Careful where you put your feet, sheep keep the grass under control! Commanding views all around no doubt a reason for it to be situated here.
Wonderfully enigmatic place in a beautiful setting. Perfect symmetrical grouping of stones with smaller set within. Fun walk past sheep to get to the site.
The Lakes Distillery
4. The Lakes Distillery
4.6
(671)
Distillery
Food & Drink
Alpacas roam the grounds of this whisky, vodka & gin distillery that offers a range of tours.
Slide 1 of 8
We visited The Lakes Distillery when in the Lake District this past weekend. What a great experience. The distillery is located in a beautiful location (very scenic). Our friends had a tasting and the gentleman that was helping us on Friday afternoon was extremely friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Great experience. We had drinks and snacks in the Bistro and they staff was very friendly. Great atmosphere. The Lakes Distillery is a must visit if you are in the Lake District and enjoy whiskey, vodka, or gin. We loved our visit and highly recommend.
Came here for the distillery tour! We had a fantastic time. It was great to learn new stuff and the drink tasting was amazing. Stopped at the cafe for lunch. Some amazing choices for gluten free food as well as the regular food. Reasonably priced too!
10/10 experience! The location, the tour, the spirits, the atmosphere, the staff and premises! Everything was 100% spot on! Would recommend to anyone who is a fan of gin, vodka, whiskey or just the alchemy behind it all! Our tour host Janice was outstanding. Wish I wasn't so far away, it would be a regular go to! A very well received distillery, set in the stunning Lake District 🫶
Loved this tour today, this is a fairly young distillery, they started producing gin and vodka so they had an income stream until after their first run of whisky, the tasting was great and the guide was very knowledgeable. Bought a few bottles.
Took the tour which was well worth it. Our guide (didn't get their name) was very knowledgeable and at the same time kept it 'real'. It was good to see the transformation from a disused dairy farm to the wonderful distillery today. The tasting was good and enabled sampling of whisky, gin and vodka. Highly recommended.
I had the most fantastic tour of the Kakes Distillery. Janice took me round and she was brilliant! I can highly recommend the tour and their products. The Equinox whisky is superb. Thank you for such a brilliant tour and time.
Fantastic place. The staff were all friendly, professional and knowledgeable. The tour is great and you get a whisky, vodka and gin taster at the end. The shop is very nice and has a great selection of whisky, gin and vodka. It's all immaculate. The bistro is also on site although I found it expensive, for what I got. A beef sandwich at £13.50 which was one slice of sourdough with a bit of beef. Nice but not value for money. Anyway the whisky tour was my thing and it was great. Plenty of on site parking and in a beautiful setting. Credit to the staff and owners who set this up, well done.
Wonderful experience from start to finish. A really informative and interesting tour of the distillery followed by a tasting session. The staff are friendly and made the tour fun. Good to see the process and taste the end results. Shop was good, bought a few bottles to take home. Recommend this to anyone.
Puzzling Place
5. Puzzling Place
4.4
(1989)
Museums
Gift shop
Fun attraction with illusion exhibits, a gallery of holograms and 3D images, and a puzzle shop.
Slide 1 of 8
Well worth a visit! The holograms are incredible. Staff are very friendly and welcoming .
To pay less than 14.00 for a Nana and three kids is amazing value! Staff are really friendly and helpful, and the inevitable “exit through the shop” is very parent friendly. The exhibits are brilliant, we had lots of fun, laughs and education! Thank you!
It was a very wet day in Keswick so we decided to visit the Puzzling Place. Such fun and a great learning experience as well, a fabulous, fun way to spend an hour.
Brilliant place, excellent value. We'd spent about sn hour in there but it was quiet so no waiting (or watching other people) Hilarious and very clever with lots of interactive displays with some nice science. Nice big rooms and probably the best gift shop ive ever been in!
Brilliant place to visit great value for money we all loved it
Great fun and dog friendly. Very good value, especially for the Lakes. Would definitely book tickets beforehand as it seems a very popular place and was not accepting walk-ins when we arrived.
The Puzzling Place is a brilliant, mind-bending attraction that’s full of fun and surprises. Every room is packed with clever illusions and exhibits designed to trick your eyes and challenge your perception. It’s one of those places where you can’t help but laugh and marvel at how easily your senses are fooled. Great fun for both kids and adults alike — a perfect mix of education and entertainment that leaves you seeing the world a little differently when you walk out!
Fun place to spend an hour or two. It's looking a bit tired nowadays and could do with a bit of a face-lift and maybe a few new illusions but still fun.
Honister Slate Mine
6. Honister Slate Mine
4.7
(939)
Outdoor activity organiser
Sights & Landmarks
England's last working slate mine, offering underground tours & several different climbing routes.
Slide 1 of 8
We only visited the shop & walked around but there are so many activities here. It’s set in a beautiful area with fantastic views. The parking is only £5 a day with plenty of spaces and you can walk miles.
Amazing place, visually stunning and really makes you rethink your position in life as well as the Uk as a whole. Tour guide was absolutely fantastic and can be forgiven for his football alliances. Well worth a visit, booking is a must!!
3 of us visited yesterday for the adrenaline pass activities. We were not disappointed! We were scared, excited, nervous, surprised, exhilarated, terrified etc!!!!🤣 Our guide Heather was amazing….. just the perfect combination of encouragement and support along with no nonsense attitude! Climb the mine was great, hard going at times! The infinity bridge in the rain and wind, well I’m sure you can imagine what that was like! The drop….. amazing! Terrifying but amazing! The adrenaline buzz is awesome, as was the feeling of satisfaction when we’d done, we couldn’t stop smiling! 😊 I’d recommend it to anyone but be prepared for your body to feel like it’s had the mother of all workouts the following day! Thank you for a wonderful experience! X
I did the Adrenaline Pass, which included the Infinity Bridge, Climb the Mine, and The Jump—a 30m freefall experience (the only one of its kind in the UK!). It was brilliant fun and well worth the money. The staff were lovely, the weather was great, and the views were absolutely stunning. Didn’t see any low-flying aircraft this time, but it was still such an amazing few hours. A fantastic experience all round—highly recommend!
This was such a fun and exhilarating thing to do! We did the Via Ferrata Extreme. Zara our guide was friendly and professional and put our mind at ease. At least give it a go, once in your lifetime. Climbing the outside of a mountain, mega fun 😊
We've just had the best afternoon here!!! We done the Mine Tour first and then The Infinity Bridge....which was absolutely brilliant! We were so lucky (not with the weather.....it rained but that's the Lake District for you) as no one but us had booked the 3pm slot. We had Heather (who was really fun....plus an EXCELLENT photographer) as our guide and we just had the best, most fun, experience and got some great photos to remember it by.
A brilliant day out. We did the Full Adventure which included a morning canyoning down a river, jumping, swimming, and abseiling our way down. After lunch we had a "walk" across the longest infinity bridge and then had a climb around the cliff face on the via ferrata experience. Even the drizzle in the afternoon didn't prevent this activity, and we were so engrossed we hardly noticed how wet we were! Our guide was Hannah, who was amazing at keeping the fun and excitement going all day and taking lots of superb action photos, which were sent to us for free at the end of the day. Probably one of the best days I have had. Yes, it is a lot of money, but considering all the equipment that was provided to take part in the activities, and put the activities together, it was tremendous value. Worth every penny. Highly recommended fun.
Great experience in the slate mine. Took my 85 year old mum and she loved it. We took our time getting around and didn't feel under pressure at all. Great tour guide with a fantastic sense of humour!
Theatre By The Lake
7. Theatre By The Lake
4.6
(1530)
Performing arts theater
Concerts & Shows
Contemporary theatre with 2 stages for new and classic works, touring shows, plus a cafe/bar.
Slide 1 of 8
We saw Di and Viv and Rose at Theatre by the Lake and it was one of the best theatre performances I’ve ever seen. The stage is set in the round, which means everyone gets a great view and very different to more traditional theatres. The cast was phenomenal. The story had me both laughing and crying. It’s funny, heartfelt, and beautifully performed. The staff at the theatre were absolutely lovely - so helpful and welcoming, they really added to the whole experience. We had such a great night out and if i ever visit Keswick again, i'll definitely be going to the theatre again.
This is the View from the Field above the Lake. Next Door to the People's Theatre : An Entertaining Visit To Make! The Lake is full of Activity : Viewed from the Grassy Take Mound. Take Your OWN Chair though : AsThere's NO Seating Found.
Saw Di and Viv and Rose. Fantastic piece of theatre in a brilliant setting. Love this theatre. I have been several times when visiting Keswick and it never disappoints.
My husband, toddler and I spontaneously stopped by while on a trip to the lake. Although 2 hours and 30 mins of Pride and Prejudice (and so brilliantly performed) isn’t an ideal activity for a toddler to sit through, the staff were incredibly accommodating and inviting. An anxiety inducing turned into a memorable experience.
Fabby-tantasssstic. As a star war fan, who can take,or leave Pride&Prejudice. Wife bought a family of 4 to watch the show.. I can honestly say it was AAAAMAZING. As well as i surrounded theatre which have never experienced, all the actors and show was 1st class , would def go watch again.
We went to see Pride & Prejudice last night - two adults and two kids (10 and 13). A really tremendous, cosy and intimate theatre and setup. We all really enjoyed it. Great performances, innovative production. A real gem of a venue in an incredible location. Do go if you can.
Brilliant little theatre where we watched a play in the round. Theatre can be reconfigured to accommodate regular tiered seating. 'Relaxed screenings' take place occasionally to accomodate people with special requirements e.g. BSL, and for those with ADHD, autism, visual impairment etc. Great to walk straight out of the place and stroll on Derwentwater. Cafe and refreshments also available.
We stopped in for lunch as a mixed party, 2 adults, 2 children and an elderly disabled member. Set up was fine to allow us to easily get a table that was suitable. We had to clear and clean the table and seats ourselves. Seats and table were acceptable, but did feel a bit "school cafeteria style". Food was decent, although not good at the prices. They were having a number of technical issues which meant a fair old wait to be served at the tills.
Derwent Pencil Museum
8. Derwent Pencil Museum
4.4
(2958)
Museum
Coffee shop
Cozy museum since 1981 exploring the history of pencil manufacturing, with exhibits, a cafe & shop.
Slide 1 of 8
Heard about this from a friend and originally thought I was having my leg pulled. Surely there couldn't be an entire museum dedicated solely to the humble pencil? How wrong was I! This is the real deal and a seriously good trip out for children and adults alike. Takes you on a journey through the history of pencils, from beginning as a lump of graphite wrapped in leather used by shepherds to mark their sheep (see I really was paying attention), right up to the present day and the seemingly endless range of artists pencils now available. The addition of a quiz sheet for everyone even the adults seemed a bit odd at first. But it was an absolute genius move that compelled everyone to engage with the exhibits in search of answers. I don't think I saw anybody not frantically scribbling down answers with the pencil that doubled as their entry ticket. No spoilers but the last question will properly test your pencil skills. World longest (and I would guess largest) pencil, and a collection of micro pencil sculptures are other highlights. My only disappointment here was that they had sold out of the replica wartime map and compass pencil. A fascinating item that made a genuine and important contribution to our own history. If you are visiting Keswick purely for the museum then use the on site parking. It is slightly cheaper than the in town option. The museum does get busy and there was barely any elbow room as people gathered around some of the exhibits, so you need to be prepared to share a bit of personal space. But if you are okay with that then there really is every reason to recommend a visit.
The Pencil Museum in Keswick is small but full of charm. It takes you through the history of the pencil, from the discovery of graphite in the Lake District to how pencils are made today. There are interesting displays, including one of the world’s largest pencils, and stories about pencils used in wartime. It’s not a huge place, but it’s fun and a bit quirky, especially if you like local history. There’s also a nice café and a shop with quality pencils and art supplies. A pleasant visit, especially on a rainy day in the Lakes.
I'd bookmarked this as a place to go on our holiday in The Lakes, and I am glad I did. It is a small museum, but worth a visit. I really liked how at the beginning they give you a quiz to take round with you to win a prize at the end - it's a great way to get everyone engaged in the visit and really making the best of all the information and history that is there. Your entry ticket is also in the form of a pencil, which is a fabulous idea. Really friendly staff and a great place. Perfect stop for a rainy day, or if you have an hour spare.
A small but interesting museum exploring the history of pencil manufacturing in the local area. The factory making pencils is behind the museum and still manufactures them today. The museum staff were very friendly and gave us pencils as an entry ticket together with a quiz to complete as we went around the museum. Well worth a visit but doesn't take long to look around. There is also a small cafe and toilets at the museum.
A small, themed museum in the traditional museum style of exhibits and information panels. There was not a lot of interactivity for children. However there was an excellent quiz, and some area for colouring sheets and using pencil and drawing skills. The museum plots the history of pencil making from the 16th century, originally in this Lakeland area. It’s informative and interesting, with some quirky exhibits like a secret agent’s pencil with hidden map and compass. The staff are very welcoming and friendly. There’s a small cafe (although it was understaffed to the point of having reduced menu - no food only cakes, when we were there. ♿️The museum is all on one level and easily accessible throughout. Very reasonably priced, with a free pencil and quiz sheet (with a prize) on admission.
This museum is not what I expected. It’s mostly educational, but it does not have many interactive projects or visual demonstrations. I appreciate how many different pencils they have displayed, as well as the various merchandise and products related to the pencil-making process that were shown. They also have a few colored pencil artworks exhibited on the wall, which are quite extraordinary. However, I think they could have hired a few more employees, presented the visitors with the process of making penciled in pencils, and let us try to make pencils ourselves. Just seeing different materials for pencil making is not enough for visitors to imagine how pencils were born. Additionally, their art shop is quite good, although all their products say they are on discount but they are actually overpriced.
Sweet museum telling the story of Derwent Pencils. Aimed squarely at families, as a solo visitor it didn’t hold a lot of appeal to me. I entered for free with a Museums Association membership, so nothing lost, but I probably wouldn’t pay for entry. Very nice staff though! Would love to see a tour or access made available for the stunning modernist building next door, although looks like it might not have much link to the company anymore.
A little museum more interesting than it seems. Dedicated paid disabled bays. Automatically doors. Wheelchair access inside the museum was OK but busy with people doing the quizzes. You get a free pencil which was a nice surprise. The history of the WWII secret pencil was fascinating. There is the Guinness book of records for the longest pencil. Gift shop and cafe located inside. Disabled loo was outside.
Lake District Wildlife Park
9. Lake District Wildlife Park
4.6
(2797)
Wildlife and safari park
Outdoor Activities
Over 100 species of exotic animals live at this 25-acre park with an on-site cafe and a play area.
Slide 1 of 8
Great place. Great location. Suitable for all. Outstanding bird of prey show (on twice a day), returning in future on strength of this alone. Buy feed bags on entry for the goats, sheep, donkeys, pigs and alpacas. Restaurant is very reasonably priced and despite being advised a 30 minute wait, it was only 5 mins. For those who can't walk far, the distance around the park is reasonable, flat and plenty of places to sit for a rest. Looking forward to seeing how the Bald Eagle training develops, and learn about Vultures... inspired. Enjoy it here, got a great feel to it, outstanding scenery, relaxed and take the scenic route back!
I recently visited the Lake District Wildlife Park and really enjoyed the day. The park is set in beautiful countryside with lovely views of the fells, which made the visit feel very relaxing. There is a good variety of animals, from zebras and meerkats to birds of prey, and the enclosures are spacious and well looked after. The staff were friendly and happy to share information, which made it more interesting. It felt calm and family-friendly, not overcrowded, so we could take our time. It’s a great place for children and adults, and I would happily recommend it for a day out.
We booked online for a family of 4. Wonderful day out at wildlife park. Plenty to see, plenty to do. Various animals, birds and playground for children. There is a picnic area outside, dine inside, gift shop, toilets. You can feed some animals with special food from the shop. Generous parking. Overall it was a pleasant experience!
We went in November because we were trying to find something to do because the weather was too bad for our hiking plans, and I am so so glad we found this little gem of a place. The value for money is amazing for all the animals you see. We thought we'd found somewhere to kill a couple of hours but ended up spending 5 hours there and it was easily the best day of our holiday. The staff are so friendly and informative; being able to see the lynx, red panda and gibbon feeds was amazing and the owl display/ talk was really special. Firmly recommend (it is still outdoors so dress accordingly)
Lovely place to spend a few hours surrounded by nature and animals. The park isn’t very big but it’s well laid out and the staff are friendly and knowledgeable. Great variety of animals and nice talks throughout the day. Some areas could use a little refresh and the café is a bit pricey, but overall a very enjoyable visit. Perfect for families and animal lovers.
Great wildlife park, the birds of prey event is brilliant, with very passionate and informative staff, I would really recommend this if you go... Lots of improvement works going on, (we look forward to seeing new animal pens etc next time we come) however this didn't spoil our second trip to the park. My family and I really like this site, it's not too big, so your not walking miles and it's much nicer than the typical main steam zoos. There are facilities on site: restaurant, shop, toilets, hand washing stations, children's adventure play and you are able to buy feed, to feed certain animals. So a great site and were looking forward to the current improvement works being completed.
Great place to visit, not like a regular zoo. There are conservation projects they are aligned with such as the one for vultures. Micheala does an amazing bird of prey talk, she's very knowledgeable and her interaction with the birds she uses in her display is lovely to watch. She is very passionate, especially about vultures. The park has lots of animals, birds and reptiles and there are plenty of opportunities to hand feed which we all loved. Free parking, accessible, not too big that you feel the need to rush to see everything. There's a cafe and play park on site too. It's a great place for a day out.
A great start to a few days in the lakes. Plenty of well looked after animals and birds of prey to be seen, displays and talks. Shop, toilets and places to eat. Can easily spend a good few ours here. 👍
Whinlatter Forest
10. Whinlatter Forest
4.8
(2918)
National forest
Nature & Parks
Forested mountain park with walking and biking trails, plus rich wildlife and a visitor centre.
Slide 1 of 8
To find something really good and free in the UK is a rarity these days. OK- so parking is not free if you choose to park, and the cafe is not free either. But the use of the well marked and maintained trails is free. There are bike trails for all abilities. There are great walking trails, too. I'll definitely be back.
Whinlatter is an amazing place for the whole family! The serene atmosphere is perfect for a calming and relaxing walk. There are scenic routes for all abilities, from beginner routes for children to slightly more challenging routes for the more experience hikers. Highly recommend
Great walks with amazing views. Stopped off at the lookout , had a lovely chat with a ranger there. Beautiful wildlife and managed to watch some gorgeous Red Squirrels. Made my holiday .
Rented a mountain bike at the cycle centre. Great staff set me up with a cracking bike. They recommend the south red route to start. Great trail, a mixture of tails and forest tracks. Challenging and enjoyable. Then the red route north, again great trail. A bit of a drag up to the top, the descent now than made up for it! In and out for the forest drops and flowing down the hill. The blue route, faster and not so technical. Still great fun. Defo worth a visit and a few hours on the trails.
Whinlatter Forest is an incredible destination for anyone who loves the outdoors. The mountain bike trails are some of the best in the UK, with routes to suit all levels of experience — from smooth, scenic tracks to thrilling downhill runs that test your skills. Hikers will also find plenty to enjoy, with well-marked paths weaving through lush woodland and offering stunning views across the Lake District. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. Beyond the trails, Whinlatter offers a real sense of peace and adventure. There are plenty of camping spots that make it easy to turn a day trip into a full off-grid experience, surrounded by the sights and sounds of wildlife. Deer, birds, and red squirrels are often seen in the forest, adding to the magic of being so close to nature. Whether you’re cycling, hiking, or just relaxing under the trees, Whinlatter Forest is a brilliant escape from the modern world.
Very clean and well looked after. The Gruffalo trail took around 1 hour with a toddler walking. Only feedback is to make it clearer on the map where this trail begins from the carpark and entrance. We had to ask someone who said to go through the building past the toilets and to the other side we’ll see a sign, map didn’t show this route at the main entrance. Great shop here and the cafe was nice too
Something for everyone here! Play area, go ape, segways, wildlife, bike tracks and some nice walks. Every route is well signposted. Only thing that let it down was overpriced drinks (£4.30 for a latte!) And the astronomical eye-watering car park charge was outrageous!
A wonderful Forestry England venue set in The Lake District just a few miles up mountain from Keswick. It's family-friendly and accessibility friendly. There's are paths and trails for walking, hiking, cycling, mountain biking, and horse riding. All abilities are catered for, including a children's Gruffalo Trail. You can arrange separately to walk Alpacas, hire bicycles, and visit Go Ape. There's also a Forest School onsite at the Yurt. There's ample chargeable parking, a shop, cafe, toilets including baby changing and accessible facilities. You can also hire a tramper if you require an all terrain mobility scooter. The main car park and toilets are open 8.30am to 8.30pm. Monday-Sunday onsite opening: Visitor Centre and Forest Shop 10am - 5pm Bike Hire 10am - 5pm Cafe 9.30am - 5pm They do not allow camping or overnight stays in the forest or any of the car parks in Whinlatter Forest. https://www.forestryengland.uk/whinlatter
Hope Park
11. Hope Park
4.7
(2922)
Park
Nature & Parks
This serene retreat with manicured gardens & a stream offers trails, picnic tables & mini golf.
Slide 1 of 8
Had a great day out playing crazy golf with the children, despite the on and off rain the children still had a great time. We then went on the boats, you can pay cash or card for these and they are just next to the crazy golf hut.
Lovely well maintained park offering refreshments plenty of seating areas and beautiful scenery. Great for adults and children
This us a truly beautiful place.It has lots of things on offer for almost everyone.There is even an ice cream shop that sells doggy ice cream 🍦 😋.It has old fashioned motorised boots that you can take for a spin round the wee pond,there's plenty of places to sit and watch the world go by perhaps while having a cheeky sandwich.It even has a chip&putting green and crazy golf.Meanwhile in the middle it has a little river running through(no fish).The garden and plants are very pretty.Lovely way to spend an afternoon
Beautiful location. And gardens worth a walk on your way to the lake
Went hope park which is lovely, then a steady walk to Derwent water, what a beautiful day for sept 23c, then we got aboard a launch and had a beautiful trip around the lake so relaxing.
I love a little wonder around hope park when I visit Keswick, I wills have to go and say hi to Max the rescue dog.
Beautifully laid out gardens with plenty of colour and flower varieties.
Immaculately presented public area. Beautiful lawns and gardens. Interesting and well kept paths though mature trees. Lots to keep all members of the family well entertained. Our first game of crazy golf in at least a decade! Loved it.
Alpacaly Ever After (office only)
12. Alpacaly Ever After (office only)
5.0
(5)
Outdoor Activities
Nature & Wildlife Areas
Slide 1 of 3
visited with my partner at The Lingholm Estate and it was such a fun experience! Our guide was very lovely and chatty! even took photos for us. Can’t praise her and this whole experience enough!
We had a great afternoon doing a meet and greet session with the Alpacas at the Lakeland Distillery site. Informative, fun and well organised.
Outstanding day out, Nicole and Ruth were so knowledgeable and informative, offering detail throughout and taking over a hundred photos which were transferred to our own cameras. Can't praise highly enough. Wonderful grounds and a trip to the water's edge with your alpaca companion/friend. Brilliant.
Bassenthwaite Lake
13. Bassenthwaite Lake
4.7
(132)
Lake
Nature & Parks
Scenic hills surround this large lake featuring waterside paths, sailing & osprey viewing areas.
Slide 1 of 8
First lake I visited in the lake district and it doesn't disappoint at all, absolutely phenomenal views, overall perfect, the walk along the lake and around area is just absolutely unreal. I found my inner peace here the second I was their.
Stunning drive to get there. Beautiful walk with amazing views. Parking fills up quickly though.
We passed on our way back from somewhere and were drawn to park up and enjoy the stunning views. Lots of little lay-by parking areas and paths to walk to the lake side which is pebbled. Perfect place for a quick dip or some water sports such as paddleboarding or kayaking. We had a lovely swim but for comfort I'd highly recommend wearing watershoes as walking into the water on the stones isn't the most comfortable thing 😉 Seeing the sailboats from the sailing club on the lakes was amazing.
Stunning, picturesque and beautiful view! All year around amazing. Many places to stop by car and just chill and see... The A66 runs directly by the lake. Easy to ride around by bicycle too.
Off season Bassenthwaite Lake was lovely as it was a lot quieter so easier to find a place to park and a place to put you picnic blanket down if you wished. Blessed with the sun there were some nice little walks to explore away from the lake, great fun for the dogs but ultimately we went to swim and enjoy the views.
A beautiful place in all seasons. I do love a frosty clear winter morning here and could resist stopping off on my way back home after visiting family.
Spent an afternoon kayaking on the lake. Parked in designated spot. Short amble to the lake with easy access to the water. Water was quite mild. Lots of little fish darting between my legs in the crystal clear water. Much warmer than Wastwater lake. Great fun and recommended.
One of the best spot in the Lake District area. Surrounded by nature and nature only. It is great for Photo Spot with all those lush greens and a beautiful lake. On the other side of the road near the car park lies an old cottage with those wonderful lamb and sheep with an old tree it serves as a picturesque. A place must for a stop when you around Lake District.
Keswick Museum
14. Keswick Museum
4.4
(510)
Museum
Art museum
Slide 1 of 8
Small but interesting museum and art gallery with a few activities for kids to do, great also as paying once let's you visit again for a year. Nice dog friendly cafe with lovely staff which leads outside also toilets and a lift between the two floors
Great for older kids, but my 4 year old had fun, too. Good place to learn about the nature for adults as well.
Very informative (both the displays and the friendly staff.) It's not often you get to play a STONE "Piano that was played for Queen Victoria! Lovely cafe on site with DELICIOUS Bacon Rolls Definatly worth a visit rain or shine.
Nice exhibits but it’s a pretty limited space. Only two galleries means the history of Keswick and the region is condensed massively. Free entry with my Museums Association card, so no harm done. But I probably wouldn’t pay for entry. Nice staff though!
A brilliant little museum packed with character and surprises! Keswick Museum offers a fascinating look into local history, with everything from Victorian curiosities to hands-on exhibits. The musical stones were a real highlight – who knew rocks could make music? 🎶🪨 The whole place is thoughtfully curated, with a friendly atmosphere and plenty to explore despite its modest size. Definitely worth a visit if you're in the area and love places that are a bit quirky, educational, and full of charm. #LocalHistory #KeswickMuseum #LakeDistrict #QuirkyMuseums #MustVisit
Nice little gem, went in because we just finished the junior park run. Deffo worth doing, tickets valid for 12 months
Perfect for kids and adults. Brilliant insight into local history. There’s a lot of love evident in this community museum. I was surprised at how entertaining it turned out to be. The blurbs don’t do it justice. A child is free with a paying adult. They get a pocket history about local geology and fondle a selection of rocks before having a 3D visual of the surrounding area. The rock xylophone must be experienced in person. Kudos if you can belt out a tune. Plus there are type writers, ink and feather quills, 3 bears story telling, arts and crafts, etc. Don’t wait for a rainy day to experience it.
Nice lady at the front desk, but cost of entry is £7.50 which is way too much for what is there. Very tiny museum, but I didn't stay more than 20 minutes.
Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum
15. Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum
4.5
(670)
Museum
Mines
Narrow-gauge rail ride into a quarry & tours of a copper mine, with exhibits of vintage machinery.
Slide 1 of 8
A wonderful visit! Staff and volunteers were knowledgeable and engaging and showed a real pride to be there. I thoroughly enjoyed the railway and learning about its history and its exciting future. The museum was jam packed with information, exhibits, photographs and artefacts along with a quaint little gift shop. The quarry had tons of interesting and historic vehicles and equipment a short walk from the museum. Plenty of space for parking with a few benches to sit outside. Based on the customer service and the amount of stuff to see, I would highly recommend visiting!
A fantastic place to spend a few hours! You can immerse yourself in the area’s rich mining history and explore fascinating vintage machinery. Hop aboard the steam train for a scenic ride up to the quarry face and back, then enjoy panning for gemstones in the stream — a hit with both kids and adults.
Visited October half term 2025. Had a great day out here with the kids and dogs too. Dogs are welcome anywhere, even in the museum and on the steam train, which was a bonus. The museum is only small but it’s very well laid out, packed full of items and history. The steam train takes you around to the end of the quarry site, where you can get out and briefly explore a large dumper truck and excavator, before heading back to the engine house. There is a lot of surrounding grounds to explore at your leisure full of endless old heavy duty machinery, including trucks, excavators, and cranes etc. The staff were also very friendly. Highly recommend a visit.
Dedicated to our past quarrying heritage. The museum is going to be moved to a new building, however the longer and slower you go around the museum the more interesting it becomes. A place to learn a lot about the area and our past. Really enjoyed my visit.
Great experience. Didn’t know what to expect and we were positively surprised. Informative small museum set up by knowledgeable volunteers, and a short ride in a really cute narrow gauge steam train through the old granite quarry. The quarry has become a sort of resting place for a ton of old mining equipment, mostly excavators most of which are still in working order. Don’t expect polished and shiny machines, this stuff looks like it did when it finally stopped being used. Highlight for us was an engaging conversation with a lovely gentleman who was “playing” with his excavator and the owner of the quarry. Two very genuine characters with a wealth of knowledge and experience.
If I'm completely honest, I think we had high expectations coming here having visited some excellent mining museums in the past. The museum itself has a lot of information about mining in the area, and the geology. Around the grounds are lots of pieces of equipment, which parents seem to let their kids climb all over (not sure they're supposed to). There's also a place for kids to pan for something. There is a steam train which is cool, and although it does take you to the quarry - it's a little underwhelming when you get there. There's plenty of parking, and it looks like it might be a campsite of sorts as well. Canbot fault the staff or their enthusiasm and dedication however!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum – A Fascinating Journey into the Earth’s History! Threlkeld Quarry & Mining Museum is an incredible place that brings geology and industrial heritage to life! Nestled in a scenic part of the Lake District, it’s a great spot for both adults and kids to explore and learn about mining history, machinery, and the fascinating world beneath our feet. The museum is well-organised, with detailed displays about the quarry’s past, tools, and minerals found in the region. One of the highlights is the underground mine tour — it’s short, safe, and gives a real sense of what life was like for miners working deep in the rock. The staff are very friendly, knowledgeable, and always happy to share stories and explain things in detail. The outdoor area with large vintage mining machines is also impressive and fun to explore. I also bought a few mineral stones and crystals from their gift shop — they were beautiful, reasonably priced, and a lovely keepsake from the visit. If you love geology, history, or just want an interesting day out in nature with a bit of adventure, this museum is definitely worth visiting. A hidden gem in the Lake District! ⛏️💎🏔️
Had a lovely day out with the kids, our son loved the train ride :) but if your kids are like my son bring some ear protection aa he did like the loud screeching of the wheels on the bends :), Allan our guide told us lots of info about the qaurry/machines and about the local history he was easy to follow and clear spoken. The Gem search/panning was brilliant :) our son had lots of fun with the looking and playing in the water so spare clothing is recommended :). A big thanks to all the team for making our day great :)
Keswick
16. Keswick
Outdoor Activities
Hiking Trails
Keswick is a market town in northwest England’s Lake District National Park, surrounded by mountains like Skiddaw. In town, The Cumberland Pencil Museum documents the history of pencils, and the Keswick Museum & Art Gallery displays local artefacts. On a hilltop east of town, Castlerigg Stone Circle dates back to the Neolithic era. Vast Derwent Water lake is south of town, with boat tours and the Theatre by the Lake.

Top searches in Keswick

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Keswick?

Get inspired for your trip to Keswick with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

Planning a trip to Keswick?
Save all the best places to visit with WanderlogDownload the travel planning app everyone's been raving about
  • Itinerary + map in one view
  • Live collaboration
  • Auto-import hotels and reservations
  • Optimize your route
  • Offline access on mobile
  • Optimize your route
  • See time and distance between all your places
Learn more
Get the iOS app from the App Store
Get the Android app from Google Play
0 places saved to your trip to Keswick