View of Derwent Water from Friars Crag
View of Derwent Water from Friars Crag
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4.9
(451)
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May 3, 2022
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May 27, 2024
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Nearby routes
Best routes near View of Derwent Water from Friars Crag
4.7
(429)
3,606
hikers
17.3km
04:45
260m
260m
Embark on a moderate hike around Derwent Water from Keswick, a journey that covers 10.7 miles (17.3 km) with an elevation gain of 856 feet (261 metres). This loop typically takes around 4 hours and 45 minutes to complete. You will find varied terrain, including well-maintained gravel paths, boardwalks through marshy areas, and sections winding through ancient woodlands. As you walk, you will enjoy expansive views of Derwent Water, its islands, and the surrounding fells, with the dramatic backdrop of Cat Bells often in sight.
Planning your visit is straightforward, as the route is easily accessible from Keswick. The path is largely waymarked, making navigation simple. If you wish to shorten your walk, you can combine sections of the trail with a trip on the Keswick Launch boat service, which has multiple landing stages around the lake. Buses also serve various points, offering additional flexibility for your day out. The trail's newly constructed bridges and raised paths mean it is often viable even in wetter conditions.
This trail is notable for offering some of the Lake District's most iconic views, such as those from Friar's Crag, which famously inspired writer John Ruskin. The route provides a wide range of experiences, from gentle lakeside strolls to options for more challenging fell climbs if you choose to extend your adventure. Along the way, you will encounter interesting features like the Chinese Bridge and several jetties, passing through areas rich in flora and wildlife cared for by the National Trust.
4.8
(224)
1,036
hikers
Embark on the Derwent Water & Walla Crag loop from Keswick, a moderate hike spanning 5.2 miles (8.4 km) with an elevation gain of 944 feet (288 metres), typically completed in 2 hours and 37 minutes. This route offers a diverse experience, winding through forested areas with cobbled paths and tree roots, transitioning to grassy tracks and dirt trails. You will encounter steep and rough sections, particularly on the ascent to Walla Crag, which rewards you with expansive views of Derwent Water, its islands, and surrounding fells like Cat Bells and Skiddaw. The return leg along the lakeshore provides a gentler, flatter finish to your walk.
Starting from Keswick, this accessible loop is a great option for a comprehensive Lake District experience, blending woodland, fellside, and lakeside environments. Due to the varied and sometimes challenging terrain, including potentially boggy sections after rain, sturdy walking boots are highly recommended for your comfort and safety. While generally considered moderate, some parts can be strenuous, so plan your visit during suitable weather conditions to fully enjoy the panoramic vistas.
The trail is particularly notable for its exceptional viewpoints, with Walla Crag offering one of the Lake District's finest panoramas, extending to Bassenthwaite Lake and even distant Scottish hills on clear days. You will also pass the iconic Ashness Bridge, a classic stone-built packhorse bridge perfect for photographs. Historically, Lady's Rake, a narrow cleft in Walla Crag, is linked to the Countess of Derwentwater's escape during the Jacobite Uprising, adding a layer of local lore to your journey.
4.8
(415)
3,439
hikers
15.0km
03:58
130m
140m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Elevation 140 m
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Tuesday 5 May
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3°C
6 %
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Max wind speed: 12.0 km/h
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