Places to stay in Keswick

The quaint town of Keswick is cradled by Skiddaw and Cat Bells, two mighty Wainwright fells that can be climbed on circular routes directly from the town centre. Paragliders soar overhead and the ‘Queen of the Lakes’, Derwentwater, sparkles below, dotted with cruisers, kayaks and sailboats. Outdoor adventurers can try ghyll scrambling, water sports and mountain biking, or tackle Striding Edge, the iconic ridge that leads to the summit of Helvellyn.

For something less strenuous, wander the town’s lively streets, popping into independent boutiques, tea rooms, craft beer shops or the Puzzling Place museum of optical illusions. Our special places near Keswick include a huge art-deco house, a cosy cottage with open fires, and a dog-friendly B&B that serves hearty Aga breakfasts. 

Featured places to stay in Keswick

 

Why visit the Lake District?

A source of inspiration for artists, poets and writers, The Lake District National Park has long captivated visitors with its majestic scenery. Explore craggy mountains, dangle aching feet in sheltered tarns and gaze out over an endless patchwork of dramatic green peaks and vast blue lakes.

Relaxed country pubs and bunting-clad tea rooms nestle alongside Michelin-starred restaurants while the region’s famous Kendal Mint Cake is sold in every corner shop to fuel strenuous hikes. Visit picturesque market towns and discover hidden waterfalls, castles and historic houses as you explore the landscape. For the brave, there’s always the prospect of a bracing wild swim at Tongue Pot in the Eskdale Valley or an invigorating session on a paddleboard across Coniston Water. 

 

About our special places to stay in the Lake District

 

Why should I book with Sawday’s?

Every place in our collection is handpicked. That means we haven’t merely viewed it on a screen, we’ve personally visited and inspected it. The inns, B&Bs, cottages and apartments on our website have made the cut thanks to their elusive combination of originality, character and comfort. Our passionate owners pour love and care into every detail and usually boast an encyclopaedic knowledge of the local area.

What attracts people to Keswick?

One glimpse at the peaceful scenery might lead you to assume that Keswick is a sleepy place, but it’s deceptively lively. A highlight of the town’s calendar is Keswick Mountain Festival, an outdoor sports festival which takes place every May. Visitors can sign up for a range of exhilarating events, from trail running to open water swimming, or simply enjoy the live music stage and numerous food stalls. 

Is Keswick worth a visit? 

Its setting on the shores of beautiful Derwentwater is one of the biggest attractions of Keswick, but the town itself offers plenty to do. Stroll around the gardens at Hope Park, visit the surprisingly fascinating pencil museum, take in a show at the nationally-acclaimed Theatre By The Lake and then refuel at Casa Bella, a cosy Italian restaurant serving traditional classics and homemade gelato. 

What day is market day in Keswick?

Stretching from the top of Market Square, Keswick Market appears every Saturday of the year and on Thursdays from February to December. Over sixty traders set up their stalls selling everything from artwork, crafts, clothes and gifts to fresh fish, artisan bread and locally produced meat. If you’ve not made dinner plans, it’s the perfect place to pick up some hot food to take away.