Castlehead
Castlehead (what3words ///grandest.milk.visions) is a low wooded hill close to Keswick town centre only 162metres high with splendid views for minimum effort. It is a great way to get your bearings and is an excellent introduction to the town and its situation, rewarding you with a stunning panorama for very little effort. You can see the full length of Derwentwater encircled by mountains as well as a bird's eye view over the town and Bassenthwaite Lake. A dial gives the name of 30 fells which can be seen. It is a great route for families as children can gain a great sense of accomplishment from getting to the top of the hill. There is a scrambly bit just before the top which adds to the fun. The whole route from the Market Square can be accomplished in less than an hour and ends with a walk down to the lake and back through Hope Park.
Download pdf - Castlehead walking route
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Castlehead Walking Route
1. Start from the Moot Hall, Market Square, Keswick (what3words ///definite.boot.obviously) and head between Greg's Bakery and The Royal Oak into St John's Street.
2. Carry on past the George Hotel. After St John's Church take the second turning on your right into Springs Road.
3. After approximately 200 metres turn right on footpath to gate and enter woods
4. After climbing a few stone steps take path to the right and keep going up hill.
5. Continue up hill until reaching summit of Castlehead. A plan on the top gives directions and names of all the surrounding peaks. Immediately in front lies Derwentwater encircled by mountains with Walla Crag to the left. To the South lies the head of Borrowdale and beyond is the Scafell range, the highest land in England. Hindscarth, Causey Pike, Grisedale Pike and Bassenthwaite can be seen to the North West and Skiddaw to the North.
6. Retrace your steps for approximately 200 metres and turn left on the path down hill past a wooden bench.
7. Cross over Borrowdale Road and take the footpath towards the Lakeshore from where you can stroll back to Keswick through the beautiful gardens of Hope Park or stop to try your hand at crazy golf. There’s also Café Hope if you’d like to relax with a slice of cake after your adventure, and an ice-cream kiosk which is sure to go down a treat with the kids.
Click here to download a pdf of the route to print
