Borrowdale and Derwentwater (NT)

Recommended by

Overview

Derwentwater is often called the 'Queen of the Lakes', and as you canoe between the islands it's easy to see why. The friendly staff at the shop and information centre on the Keswick Foreshore will help you out with local knowledge about canoeing, interesting things to do and see, and walking opportunities in the area. At the south end of Derwentwater, the boardwalk across the wetlands makes the 9-mile circular walk around the lake very pleasant, with the chance to see otters and wetland birds if you're lucky. The jewel in the crown is Derwent Island House, open for five special days each year, as is Force Crag Mine - a hidden gem at the foot of a waterfall in the Coledale valley. As Borrowdale winds the 7 miles from Keswick to Seathwaite, there are eight National Trust car parks from which you can start your adventure.

Location

KESWICK

About the area

Cumbria's rugged yet beautiful landscape is best known for the Lake District National Park that sits within its boundaries. It’s famous for Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake, and Derwent Water, ‘Queen of the English Lakes', but other lesser-known areas in the south, such as the Lune Valley and the coastal towns, are secret gems of wide cobbled streets and rolling hills.