Other Activities
Click the links below to find out about updated events and activities:
Adventure into Keswick
Huddled beneath the massive bulk of Skiddaw is a compact town with neat grey stone buildings on the southern bank of the river Greta. Built on the alluvial plain between Derwentwater and Bassenthwaite Lake, Keswick is one of the area’s busiest and most vibrant locations. The town’s pubs, restaurants, cafes, independant shops and outdoor clothing shops surround the Moot Hall, a distinctive building in the central square which now accommodates the Tourist Information Centre.
Whether you want to explore the lakes and fells, discover the history of the region, have fun or just sit back and enjoy the wealth of art and culture that the Lake District has to offer, Keswick has something for everyone.
When the weather is bad and you’re forced inside, the town comes into its own.
The Keswick Alhambra Cinema is a world away from the city centre multiplexes but is full of character has had some considerable restoration in recent years. The new auditorium screens a diverse range of films and on rainy days puts on extra matinees.
The Theatre By the Lake with its unrivalled setting on the shores of Lake Derwentwater stages a variety of top notch classic and modern productions for adults and children alike. Daytime and evening refreshments are available from light snacks to pre-theatre meals.
The Rheged Centre is a multi-activity centre on the edge of the northern lakes, it encompasses a gallery, café, shopping venue and a creative space. Watch a film, share a meal, entertain your children or indulge in some retail therapy in the speciality shops.
The world-famous Pencil Museum, Keswick Museum and Art Gallery are all well worth a visit, Keswick provides history and culture for the whole family.
Honister Slate Mine
We recently had a guest stay at the hotel, who was bought an unusual birthday present, a subterranean climb at the dramatic Honister Slate Mine. This nearby attraction is a unique adrenaline fuelled adventure playground, Climb the Mine challenge descends deep inside the caverns and caves of the historical slate mine, follow the route of the original mine workings, complete with vertical climbs, infinity rope bridges crossings, ladder ascents, zip line and a Tarzan swing. As an alternative the Via Ferrata Challenge follows the miners track up the steep outer incline of Fleetwith Pike, be prepared for mountain edge exposure and vertical ladder climbs, this adventure is a thrilling experience and worth the spectacular views.
For the less adventurous a Mine tour is ideal, experience first-hand what life was like for the miners of old, enhanced technology and explosive special effects will transport you back in time. End your day with a visit to the gift shop and café.
Whinlatter Forest
Whinlatter forest is England’s only true mountain forest and boasts dynamic views and unique landscapes and is the home to the new GO APE attraction, families can enjoy high ropes treetop adventures and there are also advanced activities for those looking for something a little trickier with challenging obstacles, high platforms and longer zip wires, don’t forget to book online before you travel.
If you fancy a walking/running challenge and want to have as much of a mental challenge as well as a physical one, head to Whinlatter Forest to try out thier orienteering courses, Buy a map from the visitor centre and take on a course to suit you, from the Gruffalo Trail to a 3.5K course, there's something for everyone.
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Adventure on the water, It's time to get wet!
Whether you want to be at one with nature and swim in the famous lakes and experience the thrill of open water swimming, paddle board, kayak or canoe along in the sun, or sail. The Lake Derwentwater provides an opportunity to be on the water for all.
Paddle Boarding
A decade ago, many Brits had never heard of Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, let alone given it a go themselves and now it is one of the fastest growing water sports where you can combine adventure and exercise.
Paddle board taster sessions are available, join in for an instructor led session to learn the basics of paddle boarding, an opportunity to get out onto the lake and try something new. There are lots of dates available throughout August and September.
Price £30 per person, over 12’s welcome.
Meet the instructor at Crow Park, Borrowdale, CA12 5DJ
Dress for the weather, sunglasses, sunscreen, shoes that you don’t mind getting wet, as you will have to walk into the lake, wetsuits included.
More info can be found @ Events at Borrowdale and Derwent Water (nationaltrust.org.uk)
Contact info 01768774649 or email NorthanddWestLakes@nationaltrust.org
How To Stay Safe When Paddle Boarding – Aquaplanet (aquaplanetsports.com)
Canoeing
There’s nothing like gliding across the smooth surface of a lake, especially with the sun slowly setting over the fells and listening to the evening birdsong, whether you’re a long-time paddler or have never set foot on one before, come and indulge in a 2 hour evening sunset paddle, a memorable experience perfect for all the family.
Brought to you by the National Trust and Derwentwater Marina, dates available are 8th 15th 22nd 29th August, 5th 12th September 6pm – 8pm.
Price £25 per person, all ages welcome.
Meet at the Derwentwater Marina, Pontinscale, Keswick, CA12 5RF
Bring an extra base layer as it can get a bit chilly as the sun sinks beyond the fells. Buoyancy aids provided.
Contact info 017687 72912 or email info@derewntwatermarina.co.uk
Wild Swimming, fancy a dip?
Take the plunge and swim on the wild side, no chorine, no lane ropes just the tranquillity of the lake and the company of like-minded people. Wild swimming in Lake Derwentwater has enjoyed increased popularity in recent years and even though the water temperature can be a little bracing, summer is a more favourable time to swim. It’s a great way to stay fit, connect with nature and cold water therapy can also boost mental health and build resilience.
If you would like some tuition, fully coached activities with knowledgeable swim coaches are available for open water swimming experiences for individuals and groups. You can also join in with organised wild swims in Lake Derwentwater, all the details, dates and prices can be found on their website. Guided Coached Open Water Swimming Lake District Cumbria Swim on the Wild Side (swimwildside.com)
Dawn Chorus
Starting at sunrise, this swim tour will take place in the peaceful waters of Derwentwater, afterwards there will be a welcome hot drink and breakfast waiting for you on the shores.
Full Moon Swim
Why not spend the evening swimming under the full moon in Derwentwater, followed by a BBQ on the shores afterwards, there is no experience like floating on the lake looking up at the full moon.
Island hopping
Indulge in some gentle swimming amongst Derwentwater’s many islands, followed by a fabulous fish supper in Keswick.
Adventure by bike
Whether you are a Mountain Biker or Road Cyclist you are very welcome here. We are just off the Sea to Sea (C2C) Cycle route and eight miles from the 19km Altura Trail in Whinlatter. We are on Cycleroutesuk’ Honister Loop and handy for several of their other excellent tours.
Why not yump around the Borrowdale Bash on your full sus or use us as a base to train for the Honister and Newlands stages of the The Fred Witton Challenge.
If your legs and lungs can cope with the hills, we can keep you fuelled and watered. We have plenty of secure undercover storage, so you don’t need to trundle around with your bike. There’s even an outside tap and hose to wash away the mud. Pumps and tools available too. Please be reassured that although the volume of cyclists doesn’t warrant us paying to be included in Cumbria Tourisms Cyclists Welcome Award we do warmly welcome you.
Whinlatter Bikes: 82 Main Street Keswick, Cumbria CA12 5DX Tel: 017687 73940
Keswick Mountain Bikes: Tel:017687 75202
Greystoke Cycle Cafe: Greystoke Penrith Cumbria CA11 0UT Tel : 01768 483984
