Nestled in the heart of the Lake District National Park, the charming market town of Keswick in Cumbria is the perfect base for a getaway with the four-legged friend. Surrounded by breathtaking scenery and boasting an abundance of shops, restaurants, cafes and pubs, you’ll find lots to do in this idyllic holiday haven. In fact, Keswick has been named in our top 10 destinations to eat out with your dog!
Due to its location, Keswick has been popular with outdoors enthusiasts and adventure seekers for many years. It’s also a great spot for culture and art lovers, being home of the annual Keswick Film Festival. A much-loved event which showcases the latest work from some of the world’s leading directors, as well as an array of quirky galleries and boutiques.
Furthermore, you’ll find plenty of pet-friendly holiday abodes around the local area. From sleek apartments with plenty of open plan living space to snug log cabins complete with roaring fires and hot tubs, rest assured we know the very best dog-friendly holiday cottages in Keswick.
Best dog-friendly walks in Keswick
With an abundance of hiking, cycling and running trails, the area around Keswick is the perfect place for walkies. Come evening, return to your snug Keswick cottage and warm your toes (and paws) by the crackling open fire.
Derwentwater Walk
Best for: Relaxing lakeside rambles
Distance: 16 km
Time to complete: 5 hours
Take in the full majesty of one of the principal lakes of the Lake District with the Derwentwater Walk. Following the shoreline all the way around the lake, this charming circuit passes through ancient woodland, beautiful parks and picturesque lakeside villages.
Castlerigg Stone Circle
Best for: History buffs
Distance: 6.5 km
Time to complete: 2 hours
Take the pup on a walk to Castlerigg Stone Circle - one of the UK’s oldest Neolithic stone circles. Situated on a vast natural plateau, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding fells from this incredible vantage point.
Latrigg
Best for: Stunning scenery
Distance: 5 km
Time to complete: 2.5 hours
Dubbed ‘Keswick’s own fell’, keen hikers must be sure to tackle Latrigg during their stay. The paths along the route are well-formed and the climb is not too strenuous, making this a great choice for groups with mixed ability levels.
To Friar’s Crag
Best for: Hikers and hounds of all abilities
Distance: 2 km
Time to complete: 45 minutes
The route to Friar’s Crag takes you straight from the centre of Keswick, along the shore of Derwentwater, to a little rocky outcrop. Once here, you and the pooch will be rewarded by spectacular views of the lake and fells beyond.
Catbells and Derwentwater Lakeshore
Best for: Working up a sweat
Distance: 5.7 km
Time to complete: 3 hours
Set yourself and the pooch a challenge and take on one of the Lake District’s most iconic peaks on the Cat Bells and Derwentwater Lakeshore walk. After a short, sharp climb, you’ll find yourself at the summit of Cat Bells soaking in incredible views of the local landscape.
Best dog-friendly attractions in Keswick
Brimming with things to see and do with the pooch, you won’t find a more dog-friendly town than Keswick. Boasting museums, boat trips, historic houses and much more, this is certainly the top choice for a dog-friendly holiday in the Lake District.
Keswick Launch Cruise
Best for: Salty sea dogs
Give the feet (and paws) a well-deserved rest with a cruise on a traditional Keswick Launch Cruise. Sit back and relax and enjoy the incredible panoramic views of the lake and surrounding fells.
Dog-friendly pit stop nearby: One of Cumbria’s best pubs, The Wainwright serves an impressive selection of real ales, all from Cumbrian Breweries.
The Puzzling Place
Best for: A unique day out
Bamboozle your senses in the wonderful world of optical illusion at The Puzzling Place. Children, grown-ups and dogs alike will be delighted by this unique attraction, hidden away in the very heart of Keswick.
Dog-friendly pit stop nearby: After a pint of local cask ale at the Bank Tavern, you and the mutt are sure to leave feeling satisfied.
Lake Windermere
Best for: A classic Lake District experience
You can’t really holiday in the Lake District without paying Lake Windermere, its largest (and most famous) lake, a visit. Wander along the banks, set off on a historic steamer cruise or simply enjoy a picnic on the shores. However you choose to spend your afternoon by Lake Windermere, it’s bound to be a good ‘un.
Dog-friendly pit stop nearby: Located in the bustling town of Ambleside, on the north shore of the Lake, The Golden Rule is a great dog-friendly local.
Mirehouse & Gardens
Best for: An easy-going afternoon
You and the mutt can enjoy a relaxing ramble of the beautifully-manicured grounds at Mirehouse & Gardens. This resplendent family-run historical home comes complete with an array of walking routes, woodland playgrounds and pretty lakeside views.
Dog-friendly pit stop nearby: The Inn on the Square is the ideal spot for a pint and tasty homemade dinner.
Buttermere
Best for: A relaxing Sunday stroll
If you haven’t had your fill of lakes yet then Buttermere Lake, just down the road from Keswick, is the perfect place to while away an afternoon. Wander along the shores of the lake and keep an eye out for local wildlife as you go.
Dog-friendly pit stop nearby: Finish your afternoon with a traditional Sunday roast at The Bridge Hotel Restaurant, nestled in the pretty village of Buttermere.
Local dog-friendly businesses
Honister Slate Mine
Honister Slate Mine offers a range of indoor and outdoor adventures for a range of ages and abilities, including mine tours, climbing in the mine, and high altitude adventures on the infinity bridge. Honister is also the last working slate mine in England and home to the iconic Westmorland Green Slate.