With magnificent fells, stunning lakes and magical villages, the Lake District is a beautiful place to visit throughout the year. Yet it becomes even more magical at Christmas time and it’s the ideal location for a weekend away during the festive season.
Nestled at the northern end of Derwentwater, Keswick is overlooked by stunning fells, including Skiddaw, Blencathra and Grisedale Pike. When the mountains are topped with snow during the winter months Kewsick could double as an alpine location, especially when you add the gorgeous Derwentwater into the mix. But at just over two hour's drive away from Greater Manchester, it's a bit closer to home than a traditional alpine destination.
If its scenic location wasn’t enough to entice you to visit Keswick during the winter, then its unique Christmas market might just do the trick. In the first weekend of December Keswick hosts a Victorian Fayre, which sees the market town transformed into a buzzing hive of old-fashioned festive fun.
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Walking around the Fayre you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time as people dress up in Victorian outfits, choirs sing traditional carols and brass bands perform. Santa, along with his reindeer, even makes an appearance for the ultimate Christmassy experience.
Held on December 4, visitors can expect a range of stalls selling food and drink, homemade gifts and local produce, in aid of various charities. There’s plenty of entertainment to get involved with too, including games, tombolas and raffles.
Although the Victorian Fayre takes place for one day only, Keswick still has lots of festive charm throughout the run up to Christmas. Wander around the town’s streets and you’ll notice beautiful shop windows, all dressed-up in their festive splendour.
With plenty of independent retailers it’s a lovely place for a spot of gift-buying and you’ll certainly find a unique present in one of Keswick’s boutiques. After dark the town is illuminated with gorgeous Christmas light displays, adding to the festive mood.
Once you’ve had your fill of Christmas shopping there are dozens of beautiful walks to discover on Keswick’s doorstep. You can take a scenic stroll along the shores of Derwentwater and soak up the mountain views across the lake.
Only a short walk from Keswick is Friars Crag, a stunning view point where you can look out over the water to the jaws of Borrowdale. From there you can extend your walk further around the lake, which has flat and easy paths.
Another walk you can do from Keswick which has breathtaking views of the town and the surrounding mountains is Latrigg, the fell which is closest to the town. Located three miles from the town, it takes around two to two and a half hours to reach the summit.
After exploring the stunning scenery which surrounds Keswick, head to one of the town’s cosy pubs or restaurants for a hearty meal and a refreshing drink. Try the Oddfellows Arms for a beautiful interior with exposed beams, or visit The Bank Tavern for a selection of locally-sourced cask ales.
There are plenty of accommodation options in Keswick, ranging from welcoming hotels in the heart of the town to self-catering cottages further out.
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