For those of you who are looking for a quick summer break to the lakes, finding the right activities and events to keep you occupied whilst there might be the tipping point you need to select your destination, with different locations each appealing to a different type of holidaymaker.
If it’s tranquillity and relaxation with an outdoorsy twist that you’re after, Keswick is the perfect base for your weekend in the Lake District – there’s plenty to do and see, as well as a few hidden gems that you simply have to visit. Inn on the Square offers their top 5 things to do on your Keswick trip!
1) Derwentwater
Well, it wouldn’t be a holiday in the lakes without a lake, would it! Luckily, when you’re in Keswick you’ve got one of the most glorious out there right on your doorstep with Derwentwater – it’s a gorgeous span of open water surrounded by the most relaxing of sceneries and you could easily spend a full day just exploring the walking trails around the water, but more on that later.
Derwentwater is one of the largest bodies of water in the district too, so there’s plenty of discovery to be done, with activities like boat trips and cruises showing you the most beautiful spots on the lake, even taking you to some of the islands found in the middle of the water!
2) The Lakes Distillery
Whiskey drinkers listen up! Your trip to Keswick is the perfect chance to experience whiskey in a way you’ve never seen before, with the UK’s largest whiskey distillery within touching distance of your hotel! Whilst at the distillery you’ll be able to learn about the processes that go into producing your favourite whiskeys, gins, vodkas, and there’s even a tasting session at the end to help you really get to grips with the distillery process.
There’s a gift shop where you can find mementoes to help you remember your trip, but the wonders don’t stop there – just look through any window or step outside the distillery and you’ll be greeted by one of the district’s largest peaks, Skiddaw, and the beautiful Bassenthwaite Lake.
3) Guided Walking Tours
One of the most popular and easiest activities to find in Keswick is the guided tours that are available, taking you to some of the most picturesque peaks and viewpoints in the entire Lake District, as well as some hidden spots only known by those who are in-the-know. There are trails for everyone from families with children, dog walkers, or experienced hikers, so regardless of your experience, there’s sure to be a perfect walking tour to help you experience more of Keswick and the lakes.
4) Award-Winning Eateries
One of the most important things before deciding to go anywhere is the food, so you’ll be happy to find out that one of the stars of the show in Keswick is the AA Rosette Award Winning Brossen Steakhouse – if you’re into your meaty dishes you’ll have to check it out.
Using locally sourced ingredients to curate a truly exquisite menu, you’ll be drooling just reading through the menu – the restaurant is part of the Inn On The Square hotel, which also features 2 bars and a dog friendly policy in 25 of the 34 rooms that are available; it’s the perfect accommodation in Keswick for dog owners, luxury-lovers, and foodies alike!
5) Dog Friendly Locations
Being a dog friendly town is another huge selling point for Keswick – it’s quite rare that you have the opportunity to take your pet on holiday, but in Keswick, you’re spoiled for choice! You’ll find a huge selection of dog-focused environments helping your dogs feel as comfortable as possible while you’re on your travels.
Your pup is sure to enjoy the huge open spaces around the town to stretch their legs in and the fresh-water air will leave you and your pooch feeling refreshed and relaxed all weekend long away from the hustle and bustle of city life. In addition to the dog-friendly hotel rooms, bars, restaurants and so much more where your puppy is more than welcome, so you won’t have to make any sacrifices to your own weekend by bringing the dog along.
Nina Smith