For many visitors, a holiday to Keswick wouldn’t feel complete without bringing the dog along too. Surrounded by lakes, forests, mountains, and endless walking opportunities, Keswick and nearby Portinscale are incredibly popular with dog owners looking for a relaxing Lake District escape. Whether it’s morning walks beside Derwentwater, stopping at dog-friendly cafés after exploring the fells, or curling up in a cosy cottage after a day outdoors, the area is perfectly suited to holidays with dogs.
Walks We Love With Our Dog
Latrigg, Keswick
Walk Details
- Distance: Approx. 2.5–3.5 miles
- Time: Approx. 1.5–2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Parking: Brundholme Road or Keswick Football Club pay & display
One of the most popular walks in Keswick is the climb up Latrigg, a relatively gentle fell with stunning panoramic views across Keswick, Derwentwater and the surrounding Lake District fells. It’s a great choice for families, casual walkers, dog owners, and anyone looking for a rewarding walk without tackling one of the higher mountains.
One of our dog-friendly cottages, Brundholme House, sits right at the foot of Latrigg, making it an ideal base for guests wanting to head straight onto the fell from the doorstep. In fact, Latrigg can easily be reached on foot from all of our Keswick properties, allowing guests to leave the car behind and enjoy one of the area’s most iconic walks straight from town.
If you are staying in one of our Portinscale properties, Latrigg is still only a short drive away. Parking is available on Brundholme Road, or at Keswick Football Club’s pay and display car park, making it easy to enjoy the walk wherever you are staying.
Castle Cragg, Borrowdale
Walk Details
- Distance: Approx. 4–5 miles
- Time: Approx. 2.5–4 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Parking: Rosthwaite & Grange pay & display car parks
- Bus Route: Stagecoach Borrowdale route from Keswick
For those looking to explore beyond Keswick, the walk up Castle Crag in Borrowdale is well worth adding to your holiday plans. Known as one of the smaller Wainwright fells, Castle Crag offers a shorter, more manageable climb while still rewarding walkers with beautiful views across the Borrowdale Valley, surrounding fells, and nearby Derwentwater. The route takes you through peaceful woodland trails and traditional Lakeland scenery, making it a popular choice for families, casual walkers, and visitors holidaying with dogs.
Castle Crag is easily reached by car from both Keswick and Portinscale, with parking available in nearby Borrowdale villages including Rosthwaite and Grange, where there are several small pay and display car parks. During busier periods, arriving earlier in the day is recommended, particularly during school holidays and summer weekends.
For guests wishing to leave the car behind, Castle Crag can also be accessed using the Stagecoach Borrowdale bus route from Keswick. The bus stops at villages including Grange and Rosthwaite, both of which provide convenient starting points for the walk. This makes it an excellent option for visitors wanting to enjoy the scenery of Borrowdale without worrying about parking or driving on the valley roads.
Grisdale Pike
Walk Details
- Distance: Approx. 7–9 miles
- Time: Approx. 5–7 hours
- Difficulty: Challenging
- Parking: Braithwaite roadside parking or Whinlatter Forest
- Bus Route: Keswick to Braithwaite/Whinlatter services
For more experienced walkers looking for a bigger Lake District challenge, Grisedale Pike is one of the most rewarding fells in the North Lakes. Rising above the Whinlatter Pass, this distinctive fell is known for its impressive ridge walk and far-reaching views across the surrounding mountains, lakes, and valleys. On a clear day, walkers are rewarded with panoramic scenery stretching across the north-western fells towards Keswick and Derwentwater.
The walk is particularly popular with keen hikers and active dog owners looking for a more adventurous day out during their stay in Keswick or Portinscale. One of the most common starting points is from Braithwaite village, just a short drive from Keswick, where limited roadside parking can sometimes be found. Additional parking is available at nearby Whinlatter Forest Park, which also offers visitor facilities, cafés, and gentler woodland walks for those not wishing to tackle the summit itself. As parking in Braithwaite can fill quickly during busy periods, arriving earlier in the day is recommended.
For guests wanting to leave the car behind, Grisedale Pike can also be accessed using local bus services from Keswick towards Braithwaite and Whinlatter. From Braithwaite village, walkers can join the route directly onto the fell, making it a convenient option for visitors staying locally without a car.
More experienced walkers may also choose to extend the route into the famous Coledale Horseshoe, one of the Lake District’s best-loved ridge walks, taking in several surrounding fells and some of the area’s most dramatic scenery along the way.
Derwentwater Circular
Walk Details
- Distance: Approx. 9–10 miles
- Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Starting Points: Keswick or Portinscale
One of the most popular low-level walks in the area is the Derwentwater Circular, a scenic route that takes walkers around the shores of Derwentwater through woodland paths, lakeside trails, and beautiful Lakeland scenery. The walk offers constantly changing views across the lake towards the surrounding fells and is a fantastic way to experience the landscape at a gentler pace. Popular with families, dog owners, and casual walkers alike, the route combines peaceful stretches of shoreline with charming cafés, jetties, and small villages along the way.
The circular route can easily be started from both Keswick and Portinscale, making it ideal for guests staying in either location. Many visitors begin from Keswick town centre before heading towards Friar’s Crag and continuing around the lake, while guests staying in Portinscale can join the route directly from the village via the lakeshore paths. Starting from either location allows guests to leave the car behind and enjoy a full day exploring the area on foot.
For those wanting a shorter day out, sections of the walk can also be combined with the Keswick Launch boats, allowing walkers and dogs to hop on and off around the lake at various jetties. Whether completed as a full circular walk or enjoyed in smaller sections, the Derwentwater Circular is one of the best ways to experience the beauty of Keswick and the surrounding Lake District scenery.
Keswick to Portinscale
Walk Details
- Distance: Approx. 1.5–2 miles each way
- Time: Approx. 25–45 minutes
- Difficulty: Easy
- Best For: Families & evening strolls
The walk between Keswick and Portinscale via The Howrahs is a lovely, gentle route and a great option for guests wanting to explore the local area on foot. Starting from Keswick, the route heads towards Portinscale via the suspension bridge and The Howrahs, following peaceful paths with beautiful views across open green spaces, the surrounding fells and towards Derwentwater.
The walk can also be enjoyed in reverse from Portinscale to Keswick, making it ideal for guests staying in either location. It’s a relatively easy route, perfect for families, dog owners, and anyone looking for a relaxed stroll without needing the car.
Many guests enjoy walking from Keswick to Portinscale for a café stop, pub lunch or evening drink before heading back the same way. It’s a simple but scenic walk that shows off the quieter side of the area and connects our Keswick and Portinscale properties beautifully.
Portinscale to Braithwaite
Walk Details
- Distance: Approx. 4–5 miles return
- Time: Approx. 1.5–2.5 hours
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Route Type: Quiet footpaths avoiding the A66
For guests looking for a quieter walk away from the busier tourist routes, the walk between Portinscale and Braithwaite is a fantastic option. Following peaceful footpaths and quieter lanes while avoiding the A66, the route passes through beautiful countryside with views towards the surrounding fells and nearby Newlands Valley. It’s a lovely way to explore the area at a gentler pace while enjoying some of the North Lakes’ less crowded scenery.
The walk can easily be started from Portinscale, making it ideal for guests staying in the village who want to enjoy a longer low-level walk directly from the doorstep. Along the route, walkers pass open fields, traditional dry stone walls, woodland sections, and small bridges, with plenty of opportunities to stop and take in the surrounding views.
Braithwaite itself is a popular Lakeland village with cafés, pubs, and access to several well-known fell walks, making it a great destination before returning to Portinscale the same way. The mostly low-level route is particularly popular with dog owners and visitors wanting a more peaceful alternative to some of the busier Lake District walking routes.
Dog-Friendly Cafés & Pubs
We are so lucky that most Cafes and pubs in Keswick are dog friendly, here are a few of our favourites:
Cafes
- Yonder, Keswick
- Café Hope, Keswick
- The Chalet Tea Rooms, Portinscale
- The Lingholm Kitchen and Walled Garden, Portinscale
Pubs/Restaurants
- The Royal Oak, Keswick
- The Square Orange, Keswick
- Barua, Keswick
- Fellpack, Keswick
- The Round, Keswick
- The Swinside Inn, Newlands Valley
- The Coledale, Braithwaite
- The Royal Oak, Braithwaite
Tips for Holidaying in the Lake District With Your Dog
A holiday in the Lake District is even better when your dog can come along too. With endless walking routes, dog-friendly cafés, beautiful lakeside paths and plenty of outdoor adventures, Keswick and Portinscale are fantastic places to explore together. To help make your stay as enjoyable as possible, here are a few helpful tips for holidaying with your dog in the area.
Bring Layers & Towels
Lake District weather can change quickly, even during summer months. Bringing spare towels, a drying coat and a waterproof lead or harness can make life much easier after muddy walks or rainy days exploring the fells.
Check Walk Difficulty Before Setting Off
While many local walks are suitable for families and dogs, some higher fell routes can be steep, rocky or exposed in places. Always check the route beforehand and choose walks suited to both your fitness level and your dog’s ability.
Keep Dogs on Leads Around Livestock
Many walks around Keswick, Portinscale and Borrowdale pass through farmland where sheep and lambs may be grazing. Keeping dogs under close control, particularly during lambing season, helps protect local wildlife and livestock.
Carry Water & Snacks
Even on cooler days, dogs can become tired quickly after longer walks. Carrying fresh water, a collapsible bowl and a few snacks is always recommended, especially on fell walks where facilities may be limited.
Plan Ahead for Parking
Popular walking areas can become very busy during weekends and school holidays, particularly during warmer weather. Arriving earlier in the day often makes parking much easier and allows for a quieter walking experience.
Respect Other Walkers & Wildlife
The Lake District is enjoyed by walkers, cyclists, wildlife and local residents alike. Cleaning up after your dog and keeping them under control around busy paths, wildlife and lakeside areas helps everyone enjoy the landscape safely.
Don’t Forget Time to Relax
While the Lake District is famous for walking, some of the best holiday moments are simply relaxing together after a day outdoors. Whether it’s enjoying a quiet evening in a cosy cottage or sitting outside at a dog-friendly pub, Keswick and Portinscale are perfect places to slow down and unwind with your four-legged companion.
Frequently Asked Questions About Dog-Friendly Holidays in Keswick & Portinscale
Are dogs allowed on walks around Keswick and Portinscale?
Yes, many of the area’s most popular walks are dog-friendly, including Latrigg, the Derwentwater Circular, Castle Crag and the walk between Keswick and Portinscale via The Howrahs.
Are there dog-friendly pubs and cafés in Keswick?
Keswick and Portinscale have plenty of dog-friendly cafés, pubs and outdoor seating areas, making it easy to stop for food or drinks during your stay.
Can dogs go on the Keswick Launch boats?
Dogs are welcome on the Keswick Launch boats around Derwentwater, making it a great way to explore different parts of the lake without completing the full circular walk on foot.
Are dogs allowed on buses in the Lake District?
Yes, dogs are generally allowed on most local bus services around Keswick, Portinscale and the wider Lake District area. This makes it easy to explore nearby villages, walking routes and attractions without needing the car. Many visitors use local buses to access popular walking areas before returning on foot or by bus later in the day. Dogs are usually expected to remain under control and need to stay off seats during journeys.
Which walks are best for families with dogs?
The Derwentwater Circular, Keswick to Portinscale walk and Latrigg are all popular options for families looking for scenic walks suitable for most ages and abilities.
Are there easy walks near your cottages?
Yes, many walks can be started directly from our Keswick and Portinscale properties, allowing guests to leave the car behind and explore straight from the doorstep.
Where can I park for popular walks around Keswick?
Most popular walking areas have nearby pay and display car parks or limited roadside parking. During busier periods and school holidays, arriving earlier in the day is recommended.
Are dogs allowed in the Lake District all year round?
Yes, the Lake District is popular with dog owners throughout the year. However, weather conditions on higher fells can change quickly during autumn and winter months, so suitable clothing and preparation are important.
Do I need to keep my dog on a lead?
Dogs should be kept under close control, particularly around livestock, wildlife and busy walking routes. Many areas of the Lake District have grazing sheep throughout the year.
Which areas are best to stay in for walking holidays?
Keswick is ideal for guests wanting easy access to shops, cafés and walking routes, while Portinscale offers a quieter village setting with excellent access to lakeside and fell walks.
Are your holiday cottages dog-friendly?
We have four pet friendly properties, Brundholme House – Keswick, Derwent Cottage – Keswick, Riverside View – Keswick, Brandelhowe – Portisncale, making it easy to enjoy a Lake District holiday without leaving your dog behind.
Whether you’re planning challenging fell walks, peaceful lakeside strolls or relaxing pub lunches with your dog by your side, our dog-friendly cottages provide the perfect base for exploring the Lake District together.
Browse our dog-friendly holiday cottages in Keswick and Portinscale and start planning your next Lake District escape.
