Derwentwater Walk: full lakeside circuit from Keswick
Walk
- Distance
- 9.9 mi
- Est. time
- 5h
- Difficulty
- Medium
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About this walk
Start at Lakeside long-stay car park beside the Theatre by the Lake in Keswick. Walk clockwise past the launch landings and Friar's Crag, then follow the waymarked lakeside paths through Strandshag Bay and Stable Hills to Calfclose Bay. Use the roadside footpath towards Ashness Gate rather than the low-water shore shortcut. Continue to Kettlewell, cross the road carefully and follow the woodland path towards Lodore. The signed route returns to the road by the hotel; cross with care and continue on the roadside path to the Manesty track. Cross the Chinese Bridge and boardwalks, then follow the western shore through Brandelhow to Hawse End and Nichol End. The route returns through Portinscale, across the suspension bridge and fields to Keswick, then via the town centre, Bell Close, Pack Horse Court and Hope Park to Lakeside.
Allow five hours for the complete circuit. This is a low-level walk with gates, steps, tree roots, rocky woodland paths and short road sections, including a short stretch without a pavement at Lodore. Wear walking shoes with good grip and take food, water and waterproofs. Lakeside has public parking and nearby toilets; cafes are available in Keswick and at some landing places. The southern boardwalks and shore paths can flood: never wade through floodwater, and follow current signed diversions via Grange if required, which add around 3 km. Keep dogs under control around livestock and wildlife.
Walk details
- County
- Cumbria
- Walk type
- Circular
- Category
- Countryside
- Distance
- 9.9 mi (15.9 km)
- Est. time
- 5h
- Explorer
- Yes, off the beaten track
Route map
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Where to start
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Photos
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Along the route
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Joining a walk
A few things to know before you make plans.
Can I join if no one else is going?
You can be the first to join a scheduled walk. A suggested date is an idea for a group walk; choose Set this date up to organise it. Check the participant list and meeting details before setting off.
What if there is no date yet?
Choose Put a date on this walk to organise a group walk. Not ready to choose a day? Follow the route for scheduling updates, or save it for later.
What does the organiser do?
The organiser sets the date and meeting details and helps the group get started. They are a fellow walker and may be new to the route too.
Each walker is responsible for their own safety and navigation. Check the route, weather, equipment and whether the walk suits your experience and fitness.
Can I walk this route on my own?
Yes. Choose Walk this route on your own to open the start screen, then start when you are ready. Finish the walk to add it to your walking history. You do not need a group date.
What happens after I join?
Use the walk page to check meeting details, updates and who is going. Check in from 24 hours before the start to let the group know you still plan to come.
How do I confirm plans with the group?
Check the participant list and check-ins, and message the organiser or other walkers to confirm where to meet and who is coming. This is especially useful when the group is small.