Walk 2321 - printer friendly version

Shores of Derwentwater from Keswick Walk

Author - Lou Johnson

Length - 3.5 miles / 5.7 km

Ascent - 150 feet / 45 metres

Grade - easy

Start - OS grid reference NY265228
Lat 54.5950150 + Long -3.1390793
Postcode CA12 5DJ (approx. location only)

This linear Lake District walk starts from the large car park adjacent to the landing stages in Keswick (grid ref. NY265228) and follows the shores of Derwentwater for just over three miles south to Lodore. From here you can return to Keswick using the launch service (click for more details). Note that at certain times of the year the launch service is relatively infrequent so you should allow yourself plenty of time to reaching Lodore.

Exit the car park and walk down to the jetties from where the launches depart. You can check the timetable here when passing. Continue past the jetties and follow the path on the shore of Derwentwater. You soon enter woodland and it is worth taking the path as close to the shore as possible so you can enjoy the first of many views from Friar's Crag. The path continues along the shore to Strandshag Bay where you go inland a short, cross a footbridge and turn right. Reaching a T-junction of paths (grid ref. NY268220), turn right and continue to pass in front of Stable Hills. Just past this large house, turn right and follow the concessionary footpath which returns to the shore of Derwentwater with Lord's Island lying just offshore.

The path continues around the shore of Calfclose Bay, passes through a short section of woodland to regain the shore with the Borrowdale Road immediately to your left. After reaching the landing stage at Ashness Gate in Barrow Bay the path veers away from the road for a short section before returning to the road opposite Strutta Wood (grid ref. NY267197). Bear right down the road with the lake to your left. Sadly, there is no option but to walk along the road. Do be aware of the traffic which in high season can be very busy. However, in 250 metres you can escape the road and take the concessionary footpath on the left which is opposite the small lakeside car park on your right. Continue along this path to regain the road at Lodore by the Watendlath Beck. Cross the road and take the footpath down to Lodore jetty.

It is worth mentioning that even on sunny days it can be cold on the launches so do take an extra layer so you can relax and enjoy the cruise back to Keswick.

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