April 2024

Skiddaw and the local area

Skiddaw is the 6th highest mountain in the UK at 931 metres.

Arthur Wainwright, wrote of Skiddaw in his 1962 guide, “The summit is buttressed magnificently by  a circle of lesser heights, all of them members of the proud Skiddaw family, the whole forming a splendid and complete example of the structure of the mountains, especially well seen from all directions because of its isolation.”

Compared to some of the Lakeland climbs, getting to the summit of Skiddaw is relatively easy, with some well-established paths to the top.  The footpath can be joined at the bottom of neighbouring Ravenstone Manor.  There is a steep initial walk, but then fairly straightforward until the final climb up a scree path. You will still need to be relatively fit, have a good sense of adventure and most definitely  wear appropriate footwear. There is also a gentler climb down towards Keswick should you wish to do so.

Bassenthwaite Lake.

Bassenthwaite is one of the largest lakes, at 4 miles long and one of the shallowest. It is home to the rare and endangered species of fish, the Vendace, which is only found here and in Derwentwater. Head out of the Ravenstone Lodge across the fields and follow the footpath which will also take you past the ancient St Begas Church.

The Lakes Distillery

You might also want to pop into the Lakes Distillery. It opened in 2014 and produces its own artisan gin, whisky and vodka.
https://www.visitcumbria.com/cm/the-lakes-distillery/

There is also a visitors centre along with a bistro and shop. 

The Lake District Wildlife Park

https://www.lakedistrictwildlifepark.co.uk

The Lake District Wildlife Park has an emphasis on  conservation and education as well as an impressive collection of well looked after animals, from Meercats to Zebras and an impressive display of birds of prey.

April 2024

Keswick Outdoor Market

The market is held every Thursday and Saturday from 9am to 4.30pm and has a range of food, craft and gift stalls

Theatre by the Lake

https://www.theatrebythelake.com/whats-on

The theatre is located on the shores of Derwentwater and has a year-round programme of plays, musicals, lectures & films, and always something seasonal for school holidays for the whole family. There is also an on-site café and bar refreshment too if you’re down at the boat landings on Derwentwater

Keswick Launch

https://keswick-launch.co.uk/ 

A cruise on Derwentwater is one of the best ways to explore. Take the 50 minute round boat trip or disembark at one of the eight jetties en-route and take a lakeland walk via well-marked paths to famous landmarks such as Ashness Bridge, Lodore Falls, Grange in Borrowdale and Lingholm, holiday home of Beatrix Potter.

The Alhambra Cinema

https://www.keswickalhambra.co.uk/

This classic 100 year old cinema has been beautifully refurbished and is open 7 days a week, runs with all the big films of the moment, and some classic art films.  They also offer parent & baby and ‘relaxed’ screenings, as well as a Film Club every Sunday evening offering world-class film selections.

Keswick Pencil Museum

https://www.derwentart.com/en-gb/c/about/company/derwent-pencil-museum

The Derwent Pencil Museum in Keswick is the home of the world’s very first pencil, with graphite mined from the Seathwaite Mine in the Borrowdale Valley.

Discover the history of pencil-making, see the world’s longest pencil,  and see how Derwent Fine Art Pencils are made today. There’s also a replica of the Seathwaite Mine, where graphite was first discovered.

The Puzzling Place

https://www.puzzlingplace.co.uk/

A fascinating, interactive excursion into the world of optical illusions for all ages in the centre of Keswick.  Explore the ‘Anti-gravity Room’, ‘Ames Room’, ‘Hologram Gallery’ and ‘Eyelusions Exhibition’. Open 10-5.30 last entry 4.30.

Keswick Museum and Art Gallery

https://keswickmuseum.org.uk/what-on

Situated in Fitz Park, the Keswick Museum and Art Gallery is a must, showcasing the stories of local people, places, and artefacts.

There’s always interesting and changing exhibitions and activities.

There’s a range of galleries local to Keswick, including The Northern Lights Gallery, The Cookhouse Gallery and Gallery 26. You’ll find exhibitions of contemporary art alongside paintings of the Cumbrian countryside.

April 2024

The Theatre by the Lake in Keswick has a year long calandar of performances for all the family. To find out what’s coming up click HERE