A firm favourite of visitors to the Lake District. Keswick is bustling with tourists in the summer. But during the colder months of the year, you can take in all of its splendour without the hassle of the crowds. Winter is a magical time in the Lake District with stunning views on offer and plenty of cosy pubs to stop in. Plus, Keswick has a number of festive events on for those visiting in winter. If you’re taking a trip to Keswick this winter, here’s where you should stay and what you should do.

Where to Stay

When it comes to staying in towns set deep in the countryside, a decent B&B or a luxurious resort located in a stately home are usually the options to choose from. But that’s not the case in Keswick. This bustling market town has a wide variety of accommodation types to choose from. Ensuring that you’ll find the perfect one for your trip.

With plenty of four-star hotels to choose from, you can enjoy the same level of luxury that you would be more accustomed to finding in inner-city hotels. Take Inn on the Square, for example. Not only is this sleek hotel ideally located within Keswick’s Market Square. But it also has the contemporary Scandi vibe that many upscale hotels have been adopting recently. 

The hotel also has the benefit of being dog-friendly, so your four-legged friend can join you on your visit to Keswick this winter. If you’re happy to brave the cold weather to enjoy an invigorating winter walk. The hotel caters to lovers of the outdoors with a drying room, packed lunches, boots for borrow, and routes running from the doorstep for both cyclists and walkers.

There are, of course, a number of different styles of accommodations to choose from depending on whether you’re looking for something in the town. So you can be close to all the amenities and local attractions, or somewhere more remote so you can really switch off and get away from the world.

What to Do

There’s plenty to do in Keswick all year round and many of its famous attractions can be enjoyed in winter. For nature lovers, many of the hiking and walking routes are still accessible in winter from Keswick and offer picture postcard perfect views of the snow-covered hills.

Of course, no winter visit to Keswick would be complete without some Christmas shopping and with plenty of independent shops to choose from, you’ll be sure to pick up some unique gifts on your visit. For shopping enthusiasts, there’s also the yearly Victorian Fayre to look forward to in December. Which is a non-profit market fair where you’ll find everything from food to craft stalls and even some live reindeers making a special appearance!

There’s also the annual Christmas light switch on to look forward to if you are visiting at the end of November and an event unique to the town: the Keswick Live Advent. Unlike any other advent calendar, Keswick’s Live Advent sees a different business play the role of the different “windows”. And each day a different business window light up with a festive display until there are 24 unique windows for shoppers to find. All of these are accompanied by different events on each day with plenty of activities and the occasional free treat.   

Theatre by the Lake 

Additionally, for those who revel in cultural experiences, Keswick does not disappoint during the winter months. The town is home to the renowned Theatre by the Lake, which offers a variety of performances ranging from traditional Christmas pantomimes to contemporary plays and musical events.

This beautifully situated theater, just a stone’s throw from Derwentwater, provides a cosy retreat where visitors can enjoy high quality productions in a spectacular setting. Attending a show here is not just about entertainment, it’s about experiencing the arts enveloped by the serene beauty of the Lake District’s winter landscape. Whether you’re a fan of drama, comedy, or dance, the Theatre by the Lake schedules something to suit all tastes, making it a must visit destination for those looking to enrich their cultural palate while in Keswick.

Winter in Keswick is undeniably enchanting, offering a tranquil yet vibrant escape with fewer crowds and a variety of activities tailored for the season. From festive events and unique shopping experiences to cultural indulgences and breathtaking natural vistas, Keswick transforms into a winter wonderland that invites both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re cosying up in a luxurious hotel, exploring frosty trails, or enjoying a live performance, Keswick provides an idyllic backdrop for a memorable winter getaway.

Conclusion

Exploring Keswick in winter offers a unique and memorable experience that contrasts sharply with its bustling summer atmosphere. With its scenic landscapes lightly dusted with snow, cozy accommodations, and a rich array of activities from festive markets and cultural performances to tranquil walks through frosty paths Keswick becomes a serene winter haven.

This season allows you to appreciate the natural beauty and cultural vibrancy of the Lake District without the crowds, giving you the space to enjoy each moment fully. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, outdoor adventures, or cultural enrichment, a winter visit to Keswick promises not just a getaway, but a rejuvenation of the spirit amidst the quiet magic of the colder months.