5 of the Best Picnic Spots in Keswick and Where to Find the Ingredients
It has been wonderful to see our residents and visitors out and about, exploring Keswick again. We need to extend a big thank you to those who have visited Keswick since lockdown has eased for respecting our town, residents and businesses.
Now that visitors are returning and enjoying the outdoors, we thought we’d write this week’s blog on some of the best picnic locations in Keswick and where you can buy excellent ingredients locally.
Castlerigg is one of the earliest stone circles to be found in the UK and it offers a 360 degree view of its surrounding fells. Castlerigg Stone Circle dates back around 5,000 years, meaning it was created during the Neolithic period. Absorbing the historic surroundings while enjoying some local Cumbrian produce is certainly an excellent way to experience Keswick.
Ashness Bridge, just off the shore of Derwentwater, is a popular spot and one of the most photographed areas of Keswick. With outstanding views, this small packhorse bridge and its surroundings are a wonderful destination for a Lake District picnic.
Postcode for Ashness Bridge car park: CA12 5UN
You can get to Calfclose Bay through this gorgeous walking route (giving you a chance to work up an appetite!) and it really is one of the best spots in Keswick for a relaxed picnic. At Calfclose Bay, you’ll be eating your meal with views of Derwentwater, Skiddaw at Catbells.
Derwent Island, which is owned by the National Trust, is one of the four islands of Derwentwater and is only open five days per year! It was first settled by German copper miners in the 16th century. You can only get to Derwent Island through an organised trip with the National Trust where you can arrive by canoe. While there are few opportunities to visit Derwent Island, we think that makes it an extra-special picnic location.
A classic picnic location in Keswick, we absolutely had to put Hope Park on the list. You’ll find Hope Park between Derwentwater and Keswick town centre, and its picnic area is next to both the woodland walk and 18-hole putting green, making it a great family-friendly spot.
Booths in Keswick can be found on Tithebarn Street and is known for selling high-quality produce. This family-owned, independent supermarket sources 80% of its meat from this region, supporting Cumbrian fell farmers.
Whatever you’re planning to take to your picnic in Keswick, you’ll surely find it at Booths, whether you’re looking for crisps, pasta, fine wine, or anything in between.
The Cheese Deli boasts an impressive selection of artisan cheeses from the local area, as well as jams and chutneys, olives, crackers, and alcohol such as beers, wine and gin. On top of getting excellent picnic food from The Cheese Deli, you’ll also get the feel good factor of knowing that what you have bought is locally sourced.
For your sugar fix, stop off at Friars. This shop is known for its exquisite chocolate, but that’s not all you’ll find on the shelves: shortbread, honey, jam, and unusual chutneys and mustards are all sold here, each a delicious treat.
Dogs accompanied by sensible owners are always welcome in Keswick, so if you’re bringing your canine friend along to picnic with you, we suggest you swing by Podgy Paws to get them a little something to nibble at, too.
Podgy Paws, which specialises mainly in outdoor equipment for dogs, will be able to supply your pup with raw diet dog food from Natural Instinct and Nature’s Menu, as well as tasty dog treats from Lily’s Kitchen.
Keswick Market can be found in Keswick’s Market Square on Thursdays and Saturdays from 8 am - 4.30 pm. At this much-loved market, you’ll find all manner of goodies, including excellent picnic additions such as freshly baked breads, hot food to take away with you, and sweet treats, too.
We hope you enjoy your picnic in Keswick - don’t forget to send us your photos on our social media pages. To find out more about things to see and do in Keswick, as well as where to eat and stay, take a look around our website.