Keswick, Portinscale and around Derwent Water

Sam Roebuck

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Keswick marks the start of one of the Lakes' classic walks, but very soon we leave the bustling little Lakeland town, quickly to cross to the little village of Portinscale. This is the last settlement we pass through as we begin our circuit of this beautiful lake.

The outward leg, along the western shore of the lake, is characterised by good tracks and paths, as we walk through woodland in the shadow of Cat Bells. The return, on the eastern shore, is split between paths and tracks and a good stretch on the shoreline itself.

It's worth taking a steamer timetable along with you, as the walk passes close to all the piers, enabling you to combine a shorter version of the walk with a pleasant boat trip.

Dog Walkers
Dog-walkers should note that there are sections where sheep may be present and there are also some stiles. There is also a long section on narrow duckboards and a short section along the Borrowdale Road.

England - North England - Cumbria - Lake District - North West

Features

Cafe, Food Shop, Gift Shop, Good for Kids, Great Views, Lake/Loch, Mostly Flat, National Trust, Pub, Public Transport, River, Toilets, Waterfall, Woodland

6/28/2009 - Shaun McKittrick

For some reason, when I was doing this walk this came into my head ... 'Carlsberg don't do walks but if they did ...' This is probably the best walk in the world. Absolutely stunning. Nice and flat and fantastic views. Very popular route.

11/2/2008 - Penelope Pitty

I completed this walk on Friday 31 October along with a dog, and found no stiles, but lots of new looking latched gates. It looks as if much of the lake circuit, paricularly on the west side, has been made more accessible to all.

9/23/2008 - Mark Everson

What a fantastic walk. Stunning views throughout. After a period of heavy rain the path on the return leg was impassable in places at the lake edge which required several detours up to the road. However this added to the enjoyment.

8/12/2007 - AVRIL LOWE

A little confusing at the start, goes through a wooded area, just follow the track and you will end up at the supermarket, honest!

10/1/2005 - Colin Butler

Point 8

There are two boat yards which fit the description here. Do not turn into the first boatyard but continue to the second one.