Distance from FME
23 Miles
Quick Description
Keswick is situated between the huge bulk of Skiddaw, Blencathra and the gentle beauty of Derwentwater. This bustling market town offers a wide range of attractions for visitors, from shops and restaurants to museums with a difference, and boating trips around lake Derwentwater.
Snippets of History
In 1276 Edward I granted the town its market charter, and the Saturday market continues to this day. The rural economy was transformed in the reign of Elizabeth I, when minerals, copper in particular, were discovered in Newlands and Borrowdale. The discovery of black lead at Seathwaite in the 16th century sparked off pencil making which is still the major industry in the town. The Pencil Museum tells the story of pencil making in Keswick.
Odd Facts
Since 2001 Ospreys have been returning to Bassenthwaite to nest. Prior to that they hadn't nested in England since the 1830's. They are usually present from around April to August.
Amenities
Booths Supermarket Boots Rohan Brysons Bakery & Cafe Outdoor Shops HSBC, Barclays, NatWest Cinema Theatre by the Lake
Links around Keswick
Visit Keswick Bassenthwaite Lake Osprey Project Whinlatter Forest Park Theatre by the Lake Mirehouse Keswick Launches Pencil Museum Honister Slate Mine Castlerigg Stone Circle

Derwentwater looking towards Catbells

Ariel view of Keswick

Castlerigg Stone Circle with Blencathra

Drive from Ennerdale to Keswick via Honister Pass