
Stunning Views over Derwentwater
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 3 miles (4.8 km) round trip
Ascent: Approximately 100 m (328 ft)
Walk Time: 1.5 hours
Type of Walk: Out-and-back
Child Friendly: Yes, suitable for older children
Dog Friendly: Yes, but keep dogs on a lead near wildlife
The Walk
Start Point: Holly Cottage (Postcode: CA12 5JU)
Begin your walk by heading to the bottom of the street and turning left. Walk towards Keswick town centre, passing the Moot Hall on your right. Follow Borrowdale Road, passing George Fisher’s outdoor shop, the cemetery on your left, and two unique stone benches built into the wall.
Turn left into the woods, where the path gently ascends. As you climb higher, breaks in the trees reveal glimpses of Derwentwater and the nearby fells. The final section is steeper but manageable, leading you to the summit of Castlehead. Here, a viewpoint marker helps identify the peaks in the sweeping panorama, including Catbells and the surrounding Lake District fells.
Finish Point: Return to Holly Cottage via the same route. Alternatively, from Borrowdale Road, turn right to head into Keswick town centre (Postcode: CA12 5JR), where cafes, shops, and other amenities await.
Tips for the Walk
Best Time to Visit: Early morning for tranquility or late afternoon for stunning lighting.
Accessibility: Not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs due to uneven paths and the steep climb.
Facilities: No facilities on the route, but Keswick town centre has cafes, public toilets, and shops.