Derwentwater

Nestled in the northwestern part of the English Lake District, Derwentwater is one of the principal bodies of water that characterize the region. It is most famous for the viewpoint from Friar’s Crag promontory (described by John Ruskin as “one of the three most beautiful scenes in Europe”) and the hilly fells of Cat Bells, a picturesque attraction of the Lake District National Park. The lake is circled by an extensive network of trails, including an eight-mile (13-km) long walking trail, which is popular with both locals in need of a good workout and visitors seeking jaw-dropping backdrops. Early mornings treks are well worth the wake-up call, as the lake transforms into a calm, stoic mirror of the mountains that surround it. Photogenic opportunities await!
And with such beautiful lakeside scenery comes many marinas, the major ones being in Keswick, Portinscale and Lodore Falls. Boat hire is available from all three villages. The Keswick Launch Company also offers regular 50-minute cruises around Derwentwater with seven landing sites located at every corner of the lake. More than just a nautical halt, Keswick is also home to one of Northern England’s most popular theaters, Theatre by the Lake, which features well-known plays lakeside year-round, just five minutes from the town center.
Derwentwater features three uninhabited islands as well as Derwent Island and its famous Derwent Island House, a privately owned 18th-century manor open to the public five days a year.

Practical Info

Derwentwater’s main city, Keswick, is located two hours north of Liverpool and Manchester and can be accessed via the M6 and the A66. It is also reachable from Newcastle via the A69, the M6 and the A66.