KESWICK
Words: Jo Davies
On the surface, Keswick is another of the many attractive Cumbrian market towns, home to stunning views and an awe-inspiring lake.
Dig a bit deeper, however, and you’ll find a remarkable landscape, shaped by Neolithic occupation, Roman settlement and Viking invasion. Its scenery inspired the Lake Poets, while its graphite gave us the humble pencil.
This gem of the northern lakes is simply replete with natural beauty, vibrant local business and an intriguing history.
DAY 1
10am Off to market Surrounded by views of the fells and the mountains beyond, the town’s cobbled streets are lined with independent shops, traditional pubs and charming cafés.
Grab yourself a cake and a cuppa in the modern-rustic Elm Café, then take a gentle stroll beside the River Greta, which flows through the town.
On Thursdays and Saturdays, visitors can explore Keswick Outdoor Market, in the town square. Running from 9am to 4.30pm, the market has been active for 700 years, offering a huge range of award-winning local produce and crafts.
keswick.org/what-to-do/shopping/keswick-market
12pm Lunch break For lunch, stop by The Square Orange, a cosy café providing an excellent menu of tapas and stone-baked pizza, along with superb coffee and delicious cakes. They’re also licensed, should you fancy nominating someone else to drive and enjoying a lunchtime tipple!
thesquareorange.co.uk
2pm Walk this way Derwentwater, lying just to the south of Keswick, is the third largest body of water in the whole of the Lake District, so tackling the walk right around it can be a lengthy undertaking. But if you do want to follow the 10-mile circular route, there are plenty of beautiful views to enjoy along the way. However, if you prefer the idea of more leisurely exploring, Keswick Launch runs hop-on hop-off pleasure cruises, stopping at seven points of interest on the journey, where you can alight and discover the beautiful surroundings.
keswick-launch.co.uk
5pm Time to dine Make your way back into town and enjoy an early dinner at the family-run Thyme Bistro, offering fresh and locally sourced dishes, including pizza and pasta.
thymebistrokeswick.co.uk
7pm Take in a movie The Keswick Alhambra is a century-old cinema in the heart of town. Settle into one of the historic theatres with a cup of tea or a glass of wine and enjoy a film, livestreaming or exhibition on screen.
keswickalha
