Things to do

A 10 minute walk from Dorchester House and the award winning Theatre By The Lake awaits . A one off location to behold attracting productions, actors, artists and acts from all over the world. Head there for films, plays, exhibitions and it’s great for children in the school holidays. The Lakeside Café and Spotlight Café Bar complete the experience.

Dorchester House are Ambassadors for Theatre by the Lake; therefore, you are able to obtain discounts on tickets for certain performances at the Theatre.

The biggest reason for visiting Keswick – the unofficial home of fell walking in the Lake District National Park. Choose a short drive to walk some of the most famous and highest fells but there’s also plenty of walks from the door. High level and low level, something for everyone and we’re also close to the rugged Western Lake District.

Home to the Keswick Launch, view the fells from a different perspective on a lake cruise. There are 7 jetties dotted around Derwentwater for pick up or drop off making it the ideal way to explore the full circumference. Derwentwater Marina is the place to head to for boat hire, sailing, Windsurfing, Canoeing, Kayaking and Stand up Paddle boarding.

Combine challenging golf with fantastic views at the choice of courses in and around Keswick. Our closest Keswick Golf Club just a 10 minute drive, there is also Cockermouth, Workington, Whitehaven, Maryport on the doorstep and regional open championship courses Silloth and Seascale.

The Neolithic Castlerigg Stone Circle is a magical place. Thought to have been constructed in 3000bc, enjoy not just the spiritual feeling but also the 360 degree views. Sunrise and sunset are particularly stunning up there.

Whinlatter Forest is England’s only true mountain forest. Easy to get to just off the A66 up to the summit where you’ll be treated to unrivalled views across Bassenthwaite Lake, Derwentwater and Keswick. Mountain bikers love it with a choice of runs suiting different abilities. Then there’s forest walks, off-road Segway hire, an excellent café and cycle centre and forest walks.

Whilst staying in Keswick take advantage of the many outdoor clothing and gear shops. Most are independents retailers, extremely knowledgeable including George Fisher for all things outdoor through to Keswick Boot Co. You’ll find along with local gifts, crafts and food.

The home of the world’s first pencil, the Derwent Pencil Museum’s location is a beautiful, right in the heart of the town on the banks of the River Derwent. With regular adult and children’s workshops spend a day there and refresh at the Artisan Café.

The drive over Honister Pass to reach the Honister Slate Mine is well worth it with amazing views over the Lake District. There you will find adventure in the form of the Via Ferrata and England’s only mine climb experience. For something slightly less extreme, the shop is a great place to purchase slate products and there’s a great café too.

The Lakes Distillery beside Bassenthwaite Lake continues to go from strength to strength and is a must visit when staying with us. Cumbria’s first single malt whisky has just been launched. See how it is made on one of their tours, browse the shop and then head to The Bistro for lunch, afternoon tea or supper.

Cockermouth is a gem of a historic market town to the west of Keswick. A great place for antiques, the National Trust owned Wordsworth House and of course, the famous Jennings Brewery.