Contact DHTour at 1-888-597-3519 or 905-639-9954 or dhtour@dhtour.ca to book.
Known as the ‘Queen of the Lakes’, Derwent Water’s gentle beauty is easy to explore on our Guided Walking holidays. Surrounded by the picture-postcard valleys of Buttermere and Borrowdale and lofty mountains, the sheer splendour of these landscapes is guaranteed to inspire you.
Highlights:
Derwent Bank, Portinscale, Nr Keswick, Cumbria CA12 5TY (Google Map)
4:00pm – You’re welcome to check into the country house hotel from 4pm onwards.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way onward.
Enjoy a full day’s walking with fellow guests and leave all the planning and navigation to us; it’s what we do best. Nobody knows the UK’s best places to walk like us. Our knowledgeable leaders make sure you’re never short of the inside story on local features, viewpoints and places of interest.
On our Guided Walking holidays, we believe that choice is key. Our walks descriptions will help you choose according to your interests and fitness. The walks are grouped together with care by local experts to give the best experience.
Walking Grades Explained:
“There’s no such thing as bad weather, just the wrong type of clothing!” goes the adage. Come prepared for all eventualities and you’ll walk in comfort as well as safety. Britain’s famous for its changeable weather, so here’s our advice on what to wear and bring.
Essentials
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You’re welcome to check in from 4pm onwards. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival.
Accommodation: Derwent Bank (D, T)
Option 1 – Newlands Valley
Distance: 6 miles (10km)
Ascent: 800 feet (260m)
In Summary: This walk takes us into the Newlands valley, a sparsely populated farming area surrounded by high fells. We go through Portinscale and the outskirts of Braithwaite before walking along the bottom of Barrow, arriving at Ghyll Bank. We then pick up part of the Cumbria Way to head back to the house.
Highlight: Explore quaint Newlands Church, which once inspired William Wordsworth.
Option 2 – Barrow and Outerside
Distance: 9 miles (14.5km)
Ascent: 2,200 feet (680m)
In Summary: Cross the Newlands Valley to climb the neighbouring fells of Outerside and Barrow in the Coledale Valley.
Highlight: The grassy slopes of Outerside and Barrow are two delightful lower fells with great views over Bassenthwaite Lake and Derwentwater.
Option 3 – Causey Pike
Distance: 9.5 miles (15.5km)
Ascent: 2,750 feet (840m)
In Summary: We’ll leave from the house for this circular walk, reaching the summit of Causey Pike and Outerside before making our way back.
Highlight: Spectacular views of the surrounding fells and Derwentwater.
Accommodation: Derwent Bank (B, L, D)
Option 1 – Derwentwater to Rosthwaite
Distance: 6 miles (10km)
Ascent: 1,100 feet (340m)
In summary: Follow the stunning western shoreline of Derwent Water to the pretty hamlet of Grange. Visit Dalton’s Cave, tucked away in the peaceful Borrowdale woodland, before following the crystalline water of the River Derwent to Rosthwaite.
Highlight: Mountain, lake and river views at every turn.
Distance: 8 miles (13km)
Ascent: 1,750 feet (540m)
In summary: Cross the hill from Rosthwaite to Watendlath Tarn, then explore the elevated terrace path along the western side of Derwentwater.
Highlight: The walk along Cat Bells Terrace enjoys a breathtaking panorama over the lake and the surrounding fells.
Distance: 9 miles (14 km)
Ascent: 3,150 ft (960m)
In summary: Head to England’s highest summit, Scafell Pike. We’ll ascend via Grains Gill and Esk Hause over large boulders and scree, then descend via the Corridor Route.
Highlight: Expect rough and steep paths; however there’s plenty to celebrate when you cross the final boulders to reach the summit.
Accommodation: Derwent Bank (B, L, D)
A free day for you to explore the local area or to relax in the Country House. Our Discovery Points help you make the most out of your free day. There’s plenty of maps and a selection of the best local walking routes, as well as weather forecasts and public transport options – plus details about other places to visit.
Accommodation: Derwent Bank (B, L, D)
Option 1 – Words in the Woods above Braithwaite
Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)
Ascent: 1,200 feet (380m)
In Summary: We cross the entrance to Newlands Valley where passing through Braithwaite we reach fine deciduous woods and Masmill Beck. The beck is followed into conifer woods and Whinlatter’s walking trails. We descend to Noble Knott, a pleasant picnic area. Our return follows easy forest tracks to the open hillside above Braithwaite before we make our way back to the house on lanes and field paths.
Highlight: Fine views over Bassenthwaite Lake from Noble Knott.
Option 2 – Forest Trail via Comb Beck
Distance: 9.5 miles (15.5km)
Ascent: 1,850 feet (560m)
In Summary: We use the minor roads and field paths to Braithwaite and enter the woodland to reach Comb Beck. Tracing the beck’s course through the forest we arrive at Whinlatter Visitor Centre. Our descent takes us through the trees emerging on the ridge path from Grisedale Pike where with luck we will have extensive views before returning via Braithwaite.
Highlight: Superb views from below Grisedale Pike.
Option 3 – Grisedale Pike
Distance: 11.5 miles (19km)
Ascent: 2,900 feet (880m)
In Summary: Grisedale Pike is the prominent and elegant peak seen from the front of Derwent Bank. We cross to Braithwaite and ascend the well used ridge path to the summit. Our descent begins steeply from Coledale Hause and then follows the grassy flank of Outerside out of the valley with the ridgeline we have walked towering above us. We return through the pretty villlage of Braithwaite and then take roads and paths back to the house.
Highlight: On a clear day there are views in all directions from the summit of Grisedale Pike including the impressive neighbouring Hopegill Head.
Accommodation: Derwent Bank (B, L, D)
Option 1 – Applethwaite and Latrigg
Distance: 7.5 miles (12.5km)
Ascent: 1,000 feet (300m)
In Summary: This walk takes us across flat fields towards the imposing mass of Skiddaw. From the hamlet of Applethwaite we start our gentle climb to the summit of Latrigg. We descend into the market town of Keswick before a level walk across fields and rivers back to the country house.
Highlight: Latrigg packs a real punch for a smaller fell with superb views across Keswick and Derwentwater towards Borrowdale.
Option 2 – Ullock Pike and Carlside
Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)
Ascent: 2,300 feet (700m)
In Summary: This walk ascends via the impressive ‘Edge’ of Ullock Pike with a short traverse of Longside Edge to the summit of Carl Side. A steep descent takes us through Millbeck and Applethwaite as we return to the house.
Highlight: Fantastic views over Bassenthwaite, Derwentwater and all the surrounding fells.
Option 3 – Skiddaw
Distance: 11.5 miles (18km)
Ascent: 3,200 feet (980m)
In summary: Skiddaw dominates the skyline at the northern end of Derwentwater. This route visits the quiet hamlet of Millbeck before a steep but steady climb to Carl Side. From here, we take a challenging route over steep and loose ground to the broad summit of Lakeland’s 4th highest peak. We then descend a well used path to the Cumbria Way and then Keswick, taking in outstanding views of Derwentwater towards Borrowdale. From Keswick, fields and quiet roads take us back to the house.
Highlight: Hopefully we will be rewarded with fantastic views in every direction from the lofty summit of Skiddaw.
Accommodation: Derwent Bank (B, L, D)
Option 1 – Ullswater Way & Aira Force
Distance: 7½ miles (11.5km)
Ascent: 1,250 feet (380m)
In Summary: From Bennethead we follow paths through fields and woodland before gently climbing and following the picturesque terrace path along the east then south side of Gowbarrow with its wonderful views over Ullswater. We descend to reach the famous waterfall of Aira Force. To finish we follow the Ullswater Way to Glenridding.
Highlight: Spending time near Ullswater, described by Wordsworth as ‘the happiest combination of beauty and grandeur which any of the lakes affords’.
Option 2 – Aira Force & Sheffield Pike
Distance: 9 miles (14½km)
Ascent: 2,300 feet (700m)
In summary: Walk from the Aira Force waterfall around the hillside above the Glencoyne Valley to the summit of Sheffield Pike which occupies a commanding position overlooking Ullswater.
Highlight: The impressive waterfall of Aira Force is one of a series of cascades in this delightful wooded valley.
Distance: 8½ miles (13½km)
Ascent: 3,300 ft (1,000m)
In summary: A fine horseshoe walk that takes in the long ridge of Hartsop-above-How and the summits of Hart Crag, Fairfield and St Sunday Crag.
Highlight: The ridge between Fairfield and St Sunday Crag is challenging in places, but is a stunning way to cross between these two impressive mountains.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home. (B)
You’re welcome to check in from 4pm onwards. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival. (D, T)
Accommodation: Derwent Bank
Option 1 – Cat Bells Terrace
Distance: 7 miles (11km)
Ascent: 350 feet (100m)
In summary: Follow the elevated path along Cat Bells terrace, then return along the beautiful lakeshore path.
Highlight: This stunning route is right on our doorstep. Throughout the walk you’ll enjoy stunning views over Derwentwater and the surrounding Lakeland fells.
Option 2 – Catbells
Distance: 7 miles (11km)
Ascent: 1,600 feet (500m)
In Summary: We begin by heading up the ridge to the summit of Catbells. We then descend to the lakeside path and a beautiful walk along part of the Cumbria Way.
Highlight: Catbells’ shapely summit is one of the most popular fells in the Lake District and affords magnificent views of the Northern Fells.
Option 3 – Cat Bells & High Spy
Distance: 12 miles (19km)
Total ascent: 2,900 feet (920m)
In summary: A Lake District classic right on the doorstep. A great walk from the house over Cat Bells, Maiden Moor and High Spy returning along the tranquil Newlands Valley.
Highlight: The shapely summit of Cat Bells is one of the most popular fells in the Lake District. There are a few rocky sections, but your efforts will be rewarded with a breathtaking view over the lake and the surrounding fells.
Accommodation: Derwent Bank (B, L, D)
Option 1 – Below Blencathra
Distance: 5.5 miles (9km)
Ascent: 250 ft (80m)
In Summary: We walk from Threlkeld through fields and along part of the River Greta into Keswick and then back to Derwent Bank.
Highlight: On a clear day you will get fantastic views of Skiddaw and Blencathra.
Option 2 – Glenderaterra Valley
Distance:10½ miles (17km)
Total ascent: 1,900 feet (580m)
In Summary: Walk from the village of Threlkeld into the lonely valley of Glenderaterra Beck. We follow a terraced path high above the valley and take in the stunning viewpoint of Latrigg on our return via Keswick.
Highlight: Look out for the graves of Robert Southey and Canon Rawnsley as you pass Crossthwaite Church.
Option 3 – Blencathra
Distance: 11 miles (17.5km)
Ascent: 3,100 feet (950m)
In summary: Climb to the top of Blencathra via Souther Fell and Scales Fell. Our descent route over Blease Fell allows us to complete the entire Blencathra ridge before finishing by walking back to the house.
Highlight: Ticking off one of the Lake District’s most iconic mountains.
Accommodation: Derwent Bank (B, L, D)
A free day for you to explore the local area or to relax in the Country House. Our Discovery Points help you make the most out of your free day. There’s plenty of maps and a selection of the best local walking routes, as well as weather forecasts and public transport options – plus details about other places to visit.
Accommodation: Derwent Bank (B, L, D)
Option 1 – Squat Beck and Buttermere
Distance: 6½ miles (10km)
Ascent: 800 feet (240m)
In Summary: Enjoy the scenery as you walk from Squat Beck through fields and farmyards to the village of Buttermere.
Highlights: Walk to the village of Buttermere where at the time of the Norman Conquest, the English had a secret headquarters where they manned a counter-attack from the valley. Buttermere was one of the few northern valleys the Normans were never able to capture.
Option 2 – Sail Pass and Barrow
Distance: 8 miles (13km)
Ascent: 2,050 feet (640m)
In summary: Cross the Derwent Fells from Buttermere to Derwent Bank. Our route takes us through the Sail Pass, then on over the grassy summit of Barrow.
Highlight: Barrow is one of the area’s most attractive lower fells, with views over Bassenthwaite Lake and the Newland’s Valley.
Option 3 – Derwent Fells
Distance: 9 miles (14.5km)
Ascent: 3350ft (1020m)
In Summary: We venture out to Buttermere and then embark on a fantastic journey across some of the most beautiful fells in the Lake District. The walk takes in Whiteless Pike, Wandope, Eel Crag, Sail and finally Barrow before dropping into the valley and walking back to the house.
Highlight: The changes in scenery and outlook across the day. We journey from the beautiful Buttermere and its fells in the morning, to the majestic Derwentwater in the afternoon.
Accommodation: Derwent Bank (B, L, D)
Option 1 – Friar’s Crag and Castle Head
Distance: 6 miles (9.5km)
Ascent: 500 feet (140m)
In summary: We follow minor roads and a field path to Keswick. From the centre of town we head for the lake shore and view point. We then ascend to a rocky summit affording views over Derwentwater before returning to the town centre through woodland.
Highlight: Delightful views over Derwentwater and beyond from Castle Head.
Option 2 – Around Derwentwater
Distance: 9 miles (14.5km)
Ascent: 850 feet (260m)
In summary: Following footpaths and the lake shore for much of this walk, we will make a complete circuit of stunning Derwentwater. Beginning from the house we first walk through Keswick before heading along the east of the lake then returning through beautiful woodland along the western shores to our country house.
Highlight: Spectacular, ever changing views of the all the fells around the lake including the imposing Skiddaw range and famous Cat Bells.
Option 3 – Bleaberry Fell & High Seat
Distance: 12½ miles (20km)
Ascent: 2,450 feet (740m)
In Summary: After a short coach ride we begin at Springs Farm we ascend steadily alongside Brockley Beck to emerge on the open top of Walla Crag. There are superb views over the lake, town and surrounding fells. We continue up to the summits of Bleaberry Fell and High Seat, before descending to the much photographed Ashness Bridge, from where we follow woodland paths to Derwentwater. We follow the shoreline back to Keswick then on to the house.
Highlight: You will enjoy stunning views of the Lakeland Fells, North Pennines and Scotland. You might even catch a glimpse of Criffel.
Accommodation: Derwent Bank (B, L, D)
Option 1 – Ullswater Way & Aira Force
Distance: 7½ miles (11.5km)
Ascent: 1,250 feet (380m)
In Summary: From Bennethead we follow paths through fields and woodland before gently climbing and following the picturesque terrace path along the east then south side of Gowbarrow with its wonderful views over Ullswater. We descend to reach the famous waterfall of Aira Force. To finish we follow the Ullswater Way to Glenridding.
Highlight: Spending time near Ullswater, described by Wordsworth as ‘the happiest combination of beauty and grandeur which any of the lakes affords’.
Distance: 8 miles (13km)
Ascent: 2,100 feet (640m)
In summary: Make the moderately steep ascent to the top of Place Fell that commands an excellent view at the head of Ullswater. We descend to follow the attractive lakeside path to Glenridding.
Highlight: Ullswater is one of the area’s most attractive lakes. You’ll enjoy great views towards Helvellyn and the North Pennines.
Option 3 – Helvellyn via the Edges
Distance: 8½ miles (13.5km)
Ascent: 2,850 feet (880m)
In summary: A famous ascent of Helvellyn, England’s third highest peak. We’ll follow the narrow Striding Edge ridge to the summit, returning via the equally impressive Swirral Edge.
Highlight: Striding Edge isn’t for the faint-hearted; however it is one of the Lake District’s classic walks with a great sense of achievement as you climb the final rocky steps onto the summit.
Accommodation: Derwent Bank (B, L, D)
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home. (B)
| Version 1 Departure Dates |
Per person (single or twin) | Single in a double room |
|---|---|---|
| 2023: April 7 | $2,100 | $2,380 |
| 2023: May 26 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| 2023: June 30 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| 2023: July 21 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| 2023: August 4 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| 2023: September 1, 22 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| Version 2 Departure Dates |
Per person (single or twin) | Single in a double room |
|---|---|---|
| 2023: April 28 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| 2023: May 19 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| 2023: June 2 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| 2023: July 7, 28 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| 2023: August 18 | $2,370 | $2,650 |
| 2023: October 13 | $2,100 | $2,380 |
Pricing
Pricing is per person (pp) based on single/twin/double occupancy.
Supplement applied for single in a double room.
Rates are in $ CAD. Rates include room upgrade (better) and membership fees.
Contact DHTour at 1-888-597-3519 or 905-639-9954 or dhtour@dhtour.ca to book.
Ask us for the best available pricing for your dates & choice of airline. We can assist in your travel to/from the Country House.
This tour is also available in 3 and 4 night duration.
This holiday includes active sightseeing and you should expect to spend lots of time on your feet.
While every effort will be made to adhere to the described itinerary, we may occasionally vary the sequence shown here or substitute an alternative route to suit local conditions or for other operational reasons, potentially at short notice. Sometimes things happen beyond our control – the weather, traffic jams or changes at the places we visit. If we need to adjust your holiday programme, for whatever reason, your leader will help smooth the way.
Travel Details:
Address is: Derwent Bank, Portinscale, Nr Keswick, Cumbria CA12 5TY
By Rail:
The nearest train station is at Penrith on the main line between London and Glasgow.
By Taxi:
The journey from Penrith to Derwent Bank can be made by taxi. The 20-mile journey from Penrith railway station takes approximately 40 minutes. You can pre-book a taxi from our recommended taxi company, Davies Taxis. The price of a 4-seat taxi is around £40. 8-seat taxis are also available at a higher rate. Please pre-book your taxi at least 7 days in advance by contacting:
Davies Taxis*
Tel: +44 (0) 17687 72676
Email: info@daviestaxis.co.uk
The return taxi journey can be arranged on your behalf by the Derwent Bank Manager.
*Davies Taxis is not owned or managed by us.
By Bus:
The X5 bus runs approximately every hour from Penrith station. The nearest bus stop is on the A66, about ¾ mile walk from Derwent Bank. Alight at the Portinscale bus stop and take the road on the left (signposted to Portinscale, Grange and the Newlands Valley). Follow this road through Portinscale village – Derwent Bank is on the left-hand side after the Derwentwater Marina.
Alternatively catch the bus to Keswick and then take a short taxi journey to Derwent Bank in Portinscale.
By Car:
From Penrith – leave the M6 motorway at junction 40 and take the A66 towards Keswick. After 17 miles you’ll reach a roundabout in Keswick – continue ahead following signs to Cockermouth and Workington. One mile beyond the roundabout, and 200yds beyond the B5289 turning to Keswick, turn left off off the A66 signposted to Portinscale, Grange and the Newlands Valley. Derwent Bank is approx ¾ mile along this road on the left after the Derwentwater Marina and before the Nichol End Marina. There is a large car park available at Derwent Bank.
Close to Keswick and situated slap bang on the shore of Derwentwater, with the glassy lake on one side and the razor-edged ridges, humpbacked fells and muscular mountains of the Lake District on the other, beautiful Derwent Bank has been entrancing walkers since 1785. Extensive refurbishment and investment have seen this established walkers’ retreat transformed into a beautiful country house hotel perfect for people looking to explore the great outdoors. It’s also perfect for drinking in the views over a glass of something chilled on the terrace. With 41 bedrooms across the main house and garden rooms as well as a rustic ‘pod’ to sleep in, there’s plenty of space, along with a pretty orangery, large lounge and relaxed vibe. The lakeside land encompasses a formal garden, extensive lawns and mature trees. The emphasis is on enjoying the great outdoors and it’s all made super easy with walkers’ facilities from an inspiration point equipped with maps and route ideas to a boot room and drying space – this is the Lakes, after all. With views of Cat Bells and Grizedale Pike, the inspiration for adventure is never far away. Venture out from the house to head to the high peaks such as Scafell Pike, Blencathra and Helvellyn or stick to the lower slopes and lakes; Ullswater, arguably the most beautiful of the Cumbrian lakes, Borrowdale and Buttermere are all within easy reach.
Address: Derwent Bank, Portinscale, Nr Keswick, Cumbria CA12 5TY
Room Amenities: Tea & coffee-making facilities, TV, Hairdryer, Toiletries, Wi-Fi
Stay in one of the main building’s beautifully presented rooms or in the stylish outhouse where there are eight garden rooms with exceptional views for stylish, laid-back Lake District accommodation. In the main house, we’d pick room 12 for the extra space and stunning views over the gardens and Derwentwater. Alternatively, ask for rooms 46, 47, 48 and 49 in the outhouse, all first-floor garden bedrooms with their own glass balcony looking over the ornate formal garden and with views of the lake. There’s easy access to the boot room and orangery too, making these rooms a must to stay in. If you’re after somewhere a little more unusual to stay overnight, there’s a ‘pod’ in the garden that offers extra privacy, sleeps up to four and gives you a great story to take away!
Premium Rooms are more spacious en-suite guest rooms. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers, and comfortable mattresses.
Hotel Amenities: Free Wi-Fi, boot room and drying room, formal garden, extensive garden, putting green, orangery, lounge and board games to borrow
After a day exploring the Lake District, settle in at our country house. Walk the pretty gardens, pause on the pier that juts out in to Derwentwater and look for the boats and ferry that sail on the lake. Try your hand on the putting green or at croquet. Grab a drink and sit on the terrace above the sloping lawns. Indoors, the spectacular orangery with its superb views, is the ideal setting for a bit of peace and quiet, or sink into the sofas in the large, comfortable lounge. Head to the bar for a great local ale and a cracking conversation with fellow guests.
