Seatoller to Keswick walk

To explore the Borrowdale Valley take the bus to Seatoller and return to Keswick. The Seatoller to Keswick walk starts alongside the embryonic River Derwent and completes the day with a choice of 3 paths alongside Derwentwater.

The Walk

The first part of the walk in Upper Borrowdale is a delight. Head alongside the River Derwent (a little awkward in places) and enjoy the woodland and birdsong of the river banks. The path sticks close to the river and is in good condition. On arrival in Grange follow the largely quiet road for 1/2 a mile. Here you can choose how to enjoy the Derwentwater section. What they all have in common is excellent views.

• High Level. The climb of Catbells. There is a steep pull up from the road 1/2 a mile beyond Grange on a wide path. At the col between Catbells and Maiden Moor the views open up dramatically, particularly impressive across the Newlands valley. Carry on climbing to the summit of Catbells before continuing along the lovely north facing ridge. The views over Derwentwater to Skiddaw and Blencathra particularly notable.
• Low Level. The shores of Derwentwater. From Grange turn right towards the lake and join a path that winds its way along the shoreline. The path is through some beautiful woodland and there are pleasant views across the lake.
• A third Middle Level route starts by climbing towards Catbells. However within 100 metres turn right just above the tree level and contour along an excellent terrace path along the flanks of the fell. The views are very impressive.
• The Gpx file and Walk Details follows the Middle Route (if you do not want to Climb Catbells, the best)

All three routes converge at Derwent Bank Country House after Catbells and there is a final 2 1/2 mile stroll through the woods to Keswick along the Cumbria Way

Recommend

Transport: The 77A (Honister Rambler) leaves Keswick bus station at roughly 90 minute intervals. It takes 30 minutes to Seatoller. Check the latest times here.

If you feel you do not want to complete the walk there is a regular ferry service from 3 points on the Derwentwater lakeside. The ferries are roughly every 1/2 an hour in the summer months and there is a timetable here.

Navigation Tips walking from Seatoller to Keswick

The river makes for an excellent ‘handrail’ in the first section of the walk. The lake in the 2nd half!