Keswick Webcam

A beautiful market town and civil parish

Situated at the northern end of the majestic Derwentwater Lake, Queen of the English Lake District, and at the entrance to the great Borrowdale valley, lies Keswick - one of the world's most beautiful places. This pretty market town offers a wide range of attractions for visitors, from shops and museums, boating trips around Lake Derwentwater and countryside rambles to climbing and fellwalking.

Check out the accommodation on offer in the Keswick area and surrounding villages.

Many of our events start in Keswick itself and many are accessible by public transport. Where events take place out of the town centre, grid references have been supplied to help you find the location.

The Lake District National Park Authority have put together 'Miles without Stiles' routes, ideal for those in wheelchairs, buggies or who find walking a challenge. There are 21 simple short options to give a blast of fresh air without tramping for hours or negotiating stiles. All routes have been 'road tested' by local residents using wheelchairs, and a grading scheme has been adopted in terms of surface quality and gradient.

Keswick is a market town in the Lake District, Cumbria, England. It is located on the banks of Derwentwater and is a popular tourist destination known for its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities, including hiking, camping, boating, and fishing. The town has a rich cultural heritage, with many historic buildings and landmarks, as well as a thriving arts scene and a vibrant local community. Keswick is also known for its traditional market and for its proximity to some of the Lake District's most famous attractions, such as Skiddaw and Catbells.

Keswick has a temperate maritime climate, which is characterized by mild temperatures, moderate rainfall, and relatively low humidity. The town is located in a mountainous region, which can cause variations in local weather patterns. Winter months can be cool and damp, with occasional snowfall, while summers are generally mild and pleasant, with occasional spells of warm weather. Due to its elevation, Keswick can be quite windy, particularly on high ground. Visitors should be prepared for all types of weather, as conditions can change quickly in the Lake District.

The local weather in Keswick can vary greatly depending on the time of year and the prevailing conditions. In general, the town experiences mild temperatures, moderate rainfall, and relatively low humidity. Winter months can be cool and damp, with occasional snowfall, while summers are generally mild and pleasant, with occasional spells of warm weather. Due to its location in the Lake District, Keswick can be quite windy, particularly on high ground. Visitors should be prepared for all types of weather, as conditions can change quickly in the area. It is always a good idea to check the latest local weather forecasts before planning outdoor activities in Keswick.

We visit Keswick in the Lake District UK for a look around the most requested Cumbria town

Keswick is located in the Lake District, Cumbria, England, in a mountainous region. The town is situated on the banks of Derwentwater and is surrounded by some of the most picturesque landscapes in England, including rolling hills, pristine lakes, and dense forests. The surrounding area is also home to a number of well-known peaks, including Skiddaw, Blencathra, and Catbells. The River Greta runs through Keswick, providing a scenic backdrop and adding to the town's natural beauty. The town's elevation of around 200 meters above sea level provides sweeping views of the surrounding countryside. The geography of the Lake District and its proximity to the coast make it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, including hikers, campers, boaters, and anglers.

The town is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world due to its scenic beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities. The town is located in the Lake District, one of England's most picturesque regions, and is surrounded by rolling hills, pristine lakes, and dense forests. Keswick is known for its proximity to some of the most famous peaks in the Lake District, including Skiddaw, Blencathra, and Catbells, which provide ample opportunities for hiking, camping, and climbing.

Derwentwater, the lake on which Keswick is located, is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and other water-based activities. There are several marinas and boat rental companies in the area, as well as numerous footpaths and trails that wind around the lake's shore.

In addition to its natural attractions, Keswick is also home to a rich cultural heritage, with many historic buildings and landmarks, including the Castlerigg Stone Circle and the historic market square. The town has a thriving arts scene, with several museums, galleries, and theaters, as well as a variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Overall, the local tourism in Keswick is a major contributor to the local economy and is driven by the town's stunning scenery, outdoor recreation opportunities, and cultural heritage. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures or cultural pursuits, Keswick has something to offer for every type of traveler.

Keswick has a rich and fascinating history that dates back to the Roman era. The town is believed to have been established as a Roman settlement, and it was later developed into a market town during the Middle Ages. During the medieval period, Keswick was an important center of agriculture and trade, and it became known for its market fairs and events.

During the Industrial Revolution, Keswick was a hub of the slate industry, and the town's economy was largely dependent on the production and export of slate. This period of growth and prosperity led to the development of many of the town's iconic buildings and landmarks, including the Moot Hall and the Keswick Museum.

Throughout its history, Keswick has faced its share of challenges and obstacles, including devastating floods and economic downturns. Despite these setbacks, the town has remained a vibrant and resilient community, and it has continued to thrive as a center of culture, commerce, and recreation.

Today, Keswick is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world to its stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and outdoor recreation opportunities. Whether you're interested in exploring the town's history, taking in its natural beauty, or participating in its many cultural events and activities, Keswick has something to offer for every type of traveler.

Set in the Lake District, Keswick is a place of natural beauty, shops, pubs, bars, and a great market

Local Travel & Tourism from Cumbria

Cumbria is one of Britain's most popular and attractive tourist destinations. The area has a wide diversity of scenery and a large number of popular visitor attractions.

Cumbria is well placed for access to most regional markets in the UK and at the centre of the national road and rail networks. In both road and rail communications Cumbria, and Workington and the A590 to Barrow, both now little more than 40 minutes drive from the M6.

British Rail Intercity services link Cumbria direct with many major cities in the United Kingdom. Intercity trains call at Carlisle (with connecting services from West Cumbria), Penrith, Oxenholme (with connections to Windermere), and Lancaster (with connections to Ulverston and Barrow) and direct services to Manchester International Airport from Carlisle, Penrith, Oxenholme and Barrow. By road Manchester International Airport is within a two and a half hour drive from most places in Cumbria, and offers scheduled services to destinations throughout Europe and the World. Carlisle and Barrow Airports are open to private charter and airtaxi traffic.

Cumbria has an extensive network of public transport of use to both residents and visitors.

The County Council supports this unique and simple way of planning a journey in and around Cumbria using public transport. The Journey Planner allows you to select appropriate departure / arrival times to and from any location in Cumbria. The software automatically calculates expected journey times and establishes the most convenient route within seconds.

The railway offers 113 miles (182 km) of scenic splendour, with the train providing a perfect vantage point from which to enjoy the views.

The architecture of the line itself is just as impressive as the scenery, with huge viaducts, long tunnels, and country stations.

The towns and villages along the line must be explored as well, with much to see and do. There are many opportunities for walking, cycling, educational activities, accommodation, refreshments and visitor attractions.

Before travelling to venues and attractions by public transport, it's a good idea to check times and details for your date and day, by telephoning one of the public transport numbers or the local Tourist Information Centre.

Travel on the line by joining a train at any of the stations shown above, from Leeds in the south, to Carlisle in the north. Regular Train Services are operated by Regional Railways North East and there are occasional loco-hauled excursions and steam trains. Unstaffed stations: please purchase your ticket on the train if joining at an unstaffed station.

A new company now operates the railway, supported by members of the Preservation Society. The nearly derelict line has been improved greatly since then and is now one of the foremost tourist attractions in the North-West of England.

About Cumbria

In area terms Cumbria is one of the largest Counties in England, but one of the smallest in terms of its population. Nearly half a million people are spread over 680,000 hectares - a population density of 0.7 persons per hectare.

The County has diverse landscapes reflecting its complex geology. The physical geography of the County is dominated by a central dome of high relief which forms most of the Lake District National Park. Cumbria's sixteen lakes fall within this area and many of its rivers originate here, radiating out towards the lower land on the coast.

Our settlement pattern is distinct, dictated principally by the topography. The majority of Cumbria's settlements are located round its periphery on lower lying land including the larger towns of Barrow, Carlisle, Kendal, Workington and Whitehaven. In addition wide flat fertile river valleys such as the Eden have historically provided a focus for settlement within the County.

Cumbria County Council and six district councils provide a wide range of services to local people, visitors to the area and those interested in harnessing the County's economic potential.

It's easy to see why this is a really popular holiday and tourist destination

Keswick History

Keswick is a small town located in the northern part of the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, England. The area has a rich history dating back to the prehistoric era, with evidence of human activity dating back over 5000 years.

During the Roman era, Keswick was an important center of lead mining and was known as "Salubria." The Romans built a fort near the town, which they used to control the local mines.

In the medieval period, Keswick was part of the Barony of Allerdale, which was controlled by the powerful Percy family. The town grew as a center of wool production, and a market was established in the town in the 13th century.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, Keswick became a popular destination for wealthy visitors who were attracted by the natural beauty of the Lake District. Many of these visitors were poets and writers, including William Wordsworth, Samuel Taylor Coleridge, and Robert Southey, who helped to popularize the area and its scenery.

In the 18th century, Keswick became a center of the pencil industry, with graphite deposits being discovered nearby. This led to the establishment of numerous pencil factories in the town, which became an important source of employment.

During the 19th century, Keswick became a popular tourist destination, with visitors coming to enjoy the stunning natural scenery and to climb the nearby mountains. The town grew rapidly, with the establishment of numerous hotels, shops, and other tourist amenities.

Today, Keswick remains a popular destination for tourists, with many visitors coming to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and boating. The town is also home to a number of museums and galleries, which showcase the area's rich history and culture.

Keswick Top Tourist Attractions

Keswick is a popular tourist destination and offers a range of attractions for visitors. Some of the top tourist attractions in Keswick include:

• Derwentwater: A beautiful lake located in the heart of Keswick. Visitors can take a boat tour around the lake or hike along the shoreline.
• Castlerigg Stone Circle: A prehistoric stone circle located just outside of Keswick. It dates back to around 3000 BC and is considered one of the most important stone circles in Britain.
• Keswick Museum and Art Gallery: This museum showcases the history and culture of Keswick and the surrounding area. It also features a range of art exhibitions.
• Theatre by the Lake: A popular theater located in Keswick, offering a range of plays, musicals, and other performances.
• Honister Slate Mine: A historic slate mine located in the nearby Honister Pass. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mine and learn about its history and the process of slate mining.
• Whinlatter Forest Park: A large forest park located just outside of Keswick. It offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and zip-lining.
• Go Ape: An adventure park located in Whinlatter Forest Park. It offers a range of outdoor activities, including tree-top adventures and zip-lining.
• Skiddaw: One of the highest mountains in the Lake District, located just outside of Keswick. Visitors can hike to the summit for stunning views of the surrounding area.
• Keswick Climbing Wall: A climbing wall located in Keswick, offering a range of climbing experiences for all levels.
• Cumberland Pencil Museum: A museum located in Keswick that showcases the history of pencil making in the area. It also features the world's largest pencil.

Keswick is both the most northerly of the Lake District’s towns and maybe its best located

Keswick Climate

Keswick has a temperate maritime climate, which is typical of much of the British Isles. The town experiences mild temperatures throughout the year, with temperatures rarely dropping below freezing in winter or rising above 25°C (77°F) in summer.

The average temperature in Keswick during the winter months (December-February) is around 4°C (39°F), while the average temperature in the summer months (June-August) is around 16°C (61°F). However, temperatures can vary greatly depending on the weather conditions, with cold snaps and heatwaves occurring from time to time.

Keswick receives a moderate amount of rainfall throughout the year, with the wettest months being November and December. However, rainfall is fairly evenly distributed throughout the year, and visitors to Keswick should be prepared for rain at any time.

The town can also experience strong winds at times, particularly in the winter months. Visitors should be aware of weather warnings and take appropriate precautions if planning outdoor activities during windy conditions.

Keswick Geography

Keswick is located in the northern part of the Lake District National Park, in Cumbria, England. The town is situated on the banks of Derwentwater, a large lake that is surrounded by mountains and hills.

The town itself is located on a relatively flat area of land between the lake and the surrounding hills. To the west of the town lies Skiddaw, one of the highest mountains in the Lake District. To the east of the town lies the Borrowdale Valley, a picturesque valley that is popular with hikers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Keswick is located approximately 20 miles (32 kilometers) south of Carlisle, the largest city in the area, and approximately 95 miles (153 kilometers) north of Manchester, one of the largest cities in the UK.

The surrounding area is characterized by rugged mountains, rolling hills, and picturesque valleys, and offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, mountain biking, fishing, and water sports on the lake. The area is also home to a range of wildlife, including red squirrels, otters, and a variety of bird species.

Landmarks

The town is known for its stunning natural surroundings and is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and tourists. While Keswick itself may not have many large landmarks, the surrounding area is filled with picturesque landscapes, lakes, and historical sites. Here are some notable features and landmarks in and around Keswick:

• Derwentwater: This is one of the principal bodies of water in the Lake District, and Keswick is situated on the shores of Derwentwater. The lake is surrounded by fells and woodlands, offering beautiful views and opportunities for outdoor activities.
• Skiddaw: This mountain is one of the highest in England and dominates the skyline around Keswick. It is a popular hiking destination, and reaching the summit provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
• Catbells: A fell on the western shore of Derwentwater, Catbells is a popular choice for walkers and hikers. It offers relatively easy access and stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
• Keswick Market Square: The town's market square is a focal point, surrounded by shops, cafes, and traditional market stalls. The Moot Hall, a historic building in the square, houses the Keswick Tourist Information Centre.
• Castlerigg Stone Circle: Located about a mile and a half from Keswick, this prehistoric stone circle is one of the oldest in Britain, dating back to around 3000 BC. The site provides a unique and atmospheric experience, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
• Theatre by the Lake: This is a notable cultural venue in Keswick, situated on the shores of Derwentwater. The theater hosts a variety of performances, including plays, concerts, and other cultural events.
• Hope Park: A beautiful public park with gardens, a putting green, and a playground. It offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Keswick.
• Keswick Museum and Art Gallery: Located in Fitz Park, this museum showcases the local history, culture, and natural environment of Keswick and the surrounding areas.

While Keswick itself may not have towering landmarks, the charm of the town lies in its natural surroundings, historical sites, and the vibrant community that attracts visitors seeking outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.