Derwent Water

Location

Derwent Water, also known as Derwentwater, is a large body of water located in the Lake District National Park in North West England. It is situated entirely within the Borough of Allerdale in the county of Cumbria. The lake is fed and drained by the River Derwent and is located south of the town of Keswick.

Geography

We first discovered Derwent Water whilst on a day trip to Keswick. We walked from the Market though the park towards the Theatre by the Lake. There’s a little hill past the Theatre which you walk up, and then you see the breathtaking and incredible view of this body of water. Our children immediately christened it ‘the magic lake’.

Derwent Water is approximately 3 miles long and 1 mile wide, covering an area of 2.63 square kilometres. It has a maximum depth of 22 metres and is surrounded by a number of fells, including Catbells, Skiddaw and the Borrowdale Volcanic Group. The lake’s shoreline is irregular, with several islands located within the lake, including Derwent Island, Lord’s Island and Rampsholme Island.

Derwent Water is a popular tourist destination due to its stunning scenery and the opportunities it offers for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and water sports. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll around the lake, hire a boat or take a cruise to explore the islands and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding fells.

History

The lake has a rich history dating back to the Neolithic period, with evidence of stone circles and other ancient structures found in the surrounding area. The lake was also an important source of power for the local mills during the Industrial Revolution.

Today, Derwent Water is a protected area within the Lake District National Park and is managed by the National Trust. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including otters, red squirrels and ospreys, and is a designated Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) due to its importance for nature conservation.

The lake has also been used as a filming location for a number of movies and television shows, including Star Wars Episode VII: The Force Awakens and the BBC’s adaptation of Swallows and Amazons.

Activities

Derwent Water offers a wide range of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Whether you prefer hiking and walking, water activities, cycling, or fishing, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Hiking and Walking

Derwent Water is surrounded by stunning scenery, making it the perfect location for hiking and walking. Visitors can take advantage of the many trails and paths that wind their way around the lake and through the surrounding hills and valleys. One popular route is the Cat Bells walk, which offers breathtaking views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

For those who prefer a more leisurely stroll, there are plenty of easy walking routes near Derwent Water. The Miles without Stiles routes are specifically designed for people with limited mobility, while the Portinscale Riverbank Loop and Stair Riverside routes offer gentle walks along the riverbank.

Water Activities

Derwent Water is a great place to enjoy a range of water activities. Visitors can hire rowing boats, motor boats, and canoes from the Keswick Launch Co. and explore the lake at their leisure. For those who prefer a more structured activity, the Keswick Adventure Centre offers a range of water sports, including kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and sailing.

It’s worth noting that New Zealand pigmyweed, an invasive species, has formed thick mats of vegetation across the lake bed, outcompeting native species like water plantain. Visitors should take care not to disturb the lake bed and avoid spreading the invasive species.

Cycling

Derwent Water is a great location for cycling enthusiasts. There are plenty of quiet roads and off-road trails that wind their way through the surrounding countryside. The Borrowdale Bash is a popular circular route that takes in some of the most stunning scenery in the area, while the Whinlatter Pass climb offers a challenging ride for experienced cyclists.

Visitors can hire bikes from a number of local providers, including Keswick Bikes and Cyclewise.

Fishing

Derwent Water is home to a variety of fish species, including pike, perch, roach, and brown trout. Fishing is allowed on the lake, but visitors must have a valid Environment Agency rod license and adhere to local byelaws.

The Keswick Anglers Association offers a range of fishing permits for visitors, including day tickets and season permits. It’s worth noting that some areas of the lake are designated as no-fishing zones to protect the local wildlife.

Sunbathing

The less energetic amongst us can enjoy a sunny day on the beach close to the Theatre by the Lake.

The beach is pebbly, so equip yourseves with beach shoes or Crocs, and remember your sunscreen!

Attractions

Derwent Water is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Here are some of the top attractions to check out:

Keswick Launch Company

The Keswick Launch Company offers boat tours of Derwent Water, allowing visitors to take in the stunning views of the lake and surrounding hills. The boats run regularly throughout the day, with stops at various points around the lake, including Ashness Bridge and Lodore Falls. Visitors can purchase tickets for single trips or for a full day pass, which allows them to hop on and off the boats as they please.

Derwent Water Marina

The Derwent Water Marina is a great place to rent a boat or kayak and explore the lake on your own. They offer a variety of watercraft, including canoes, rowboats, and motorboats. Visitors can also take lessons or hire a guide to help them navigate the lake. The marina is located on the eastern shore of the lake, near the town of Portinscale.

Castlerigg Stone Circle

The Castlerigg Stone Circle is a prehistoric monument located just a few miles from Derwent Water. It consists of 38 stones arranged in a circle, with several smaller stones forming a rectangular enclosure in the centre. The purpose of the circle is not known for certain, but it is believed to have been used for religious or ceremonial purposes. Visitors can walk around the circle and take in the stunning views of the surrounding hills.

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just want to relax and take in the scenery, Derwent Water has something for everyone. Be sure to check out these top attractions during your visit!

Accommodation

Hotels

Derwent Water is a popular tourist destination in the Lake District, and there are a number of hotels in the area to choose from. The Ravenstone Manor Hotel in Keswick is a popular choice, offering easy access to the lake and the surrounding countryside. The hotel is set in 3 hectares of grounds and has a restaurant, bar, and free parking.

Another popular option is The Kings Arms Hotel, located on Keswick’s main street. This hotel is just a 10-minute walk from Derwentwater and offers easy access to the Lake District. The hotel has a restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi.

Guesthouses

For those looking for a more personal touch, there are a number of guesthouses in the Derwent Water area. The Derwentwater Independent Hostel is a popular choice, offering affordable accommodation in a stunning location. The hostel has a communal kitchen, lounge, and free Wi-Fi.

The Derwentwater Hotel is another popular guesthouse, located just a short walk from the lake. The hotel has a restaurant, bar, and free parking.

Camping

For those who prefer to be closer to nature, there are a number of campsites in the Derwent Water area. The Keswick Camping and Caravanning Club Site is a popular choice, offering stunning views of the surrounding countryside. The site has a shop, laundry facilities, and free Wi-Fi.

The Scotgate Holiday Park is another popular option, located just a short walk from the lake. The site has a range of accommodation options, including camping pods, caravans, and lodges. The site has a restaurant, bar, and free Wi-Fi.

Conclusion

Derwent Water is a stunning destination that offers visitors an opportunity to escape city life and immerse themselves in nature. The lake is surrounded by hills and extensive woodlands, making it a place of considerable scenic value. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, including boating, fishing, and hiking, while also indulging in delicious dining options and comfortable accommodation. The lake is approximately 3 miles long and from 0.5 to 1.25 miles wide, with a maximum depth of 72 feet. The River Derwent enters its southern end from Borrowdale, its mountain-girded upper valley, and leaves the lake’s northern end near the town of Keswick. One of the highlights of Derwent Water is the regular passenger launch that operates on the lake, taking passengers between various landing stages. This is a great way to explore the lake and take in the stunning views from the water. Overall, Derwent Water is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. With its range of activities, beautiful scenery, and comfortable accommodation, it is the perfect place to spend a few days exploring the Lake District.