There's more to Keswick than Words and Water

By Lauren Moore

With its picturesque scenery and rich literary tradition, Keswick lends itself perfectly to the annual hosting of the Words by the Water festival. But there are plenty of other things to do in and around the town which is a tourist destination in its own right.

Why not hire a bike from the Keswick Mountain Bike workshop on Carding Mill Lane (prices start at £15 for adults and £10 for children) and take a ride around the lake? Along the route, cyclists are able to take in sites such as the two marinas, the slopes of Catbells as well as a waterfall made famous by Lakes poet Robert Southey, which you can find behind the Lodore Hotel. www.keswickbikes.co.uk

If you are looking for a more relaxing way to explore Derwentwater, several cruises are available daily, which gives visitors the opportunity to hop on and off at seven different jet ties - including Nichol End and Lodore - or simply enjoy the full 50 minute round trip. www.keswick-launch.co.uk

Keswick Museum and Art Gallery is only a five minute walk away from the town centre. Situated on Station Road, it gives visitors an insight into the Victorian history of the area. The main exhibit is the stone dulcimer, a set of musical stones used in performances for Queen Victoria. Also, in keeping with the literary theme, the 'Poets Corner' has an impressive collection of original manuscripts and memorabilia from Robert Southey, William Wordsworth and Hugh Walpole. www.allerdale.gov.uk/keswick-museum

If you are in the area between May 13 – 17 and action-packed adventure is more your style, why not take part in the Keswick Mountain Festival? A host of activities are planned over the five days of the event including rock climbing, sailing and a triathlon. Tickets start from £3 - there’s never been a better excuse to lose yourself in the magnificent mountains of Keswick. 

For more infornation check out: www.keswickmountainfestival.co.uk  

Keswick is situated in an extremely beautiful area of the Lake District and anybody who is here for the festival should definitely take the time to explore all that it has to offer.