Ever dreamt of waking up in the heart of the Lake District, surrounded by the spectacular views and immersed in nature?
Borrowdale is the perfect place for a summer escape. Nestled in the Borrowdale Valley at the southern tip of Derwentwater, and just a short drive from Keswick, it offers a piece of tranquility that still keeps you close to everything the Lake District has to offer.
Whether you’re trying to complete the Wainwright Fells or prefer a more relaxing break surrounded by stunning views, this guide will help you plan your perfect break in Borrowdale, completed with a stay at the Borrowdale Hotel.
Take On The Fells
From adventurous hikes to gentler walks, the views are truly breathtaking and on the doorstep of Borrowdale. Here is a tailored guide whether you’re a hiking expert or a Wainwright novice.
The Keen Hiker
Scafell Pike
Difficulty: Hard
Height: 978m
Duration: 4-6 hours
Dog friendly? Only recommended for active and experienced dogs.
As the highest peak in England, Scafell Pike is recommended for experienced hikers who are ready for a challenge. It can be accessed at the end of Borrowdale Valley.
The ‘In-Training Mode’
Catbells
Difficulty: Moderate
Height: 451m
Duration: 2-3 hours
Dog friendly? Yes
A very popular hike with iconic ridge-walking and a mild scramble with an incredible panoramic view as a your reward.
Beginner-Friendly
Castle Crag
Difficulty: Easier
Height: 379m
Duration: 2-3 hours.
Dog friendly? Yes
A hike that will give you the true Wainwright experience, as one of the easier fells to walk with slightly less crowds. Located just down the road from both Borrowdale Hotel and Lodore Falls Hotel and Spa.
The Leisurely Stroller
Want to see the beautiful Derwentwater views that’s friendly on the knees? These walks are perfect!
- Surprise View (accessible via car) / Ashness Bridge
- Derwenwater Circular / Chinese Bridge
Difficulty: Easy
Height: Mainly flat
Duration: Up to 4 hours (full lake walk) or use the Keswick Launch boats to cross the lake.
Dog friendly? Yes
No Car? No Problem!
Did you know that the Borrowdale Hotel is actually accessible by several (rather scenic) modes of public transport directly from Keswick?
Make your journey part of the adventure by leaving the car behind. During the busy summer months, travelling by bus is a great way to avoid traffic, relax, and enjoy the spectacular views along the way.
Choosing public transport is not only a stress-free way to travel, but also helps protect the beautiful landscapes of Borrowdale for everyone to enjoy. Sit back, take in the scenery, and arrive ready to explore.
So, skip the traffic and savour the journey.
Boat
Hop aboard a lake cruise at Keswick Launch for the most breathtaking views of Derwentwater and surrounding fells. With the Launch stopping at Lodore jetty, it is the ideal way to explore everything this special valley has to offer.
More information, timetable and how to book can be found here.
Bus
The open-top bus from Keswick to Borrowdale is operated by Stagecoach on Service 78 (The Borrowdale Bus). From just £3 per adult, the scenic, 15-minute journey begins at Keswick Bus Station and travels along the eastern shore of Derwentwater, providing hop-on, hop-off access around the Borrowdale Hotel and surrounding areas.
More information, timetable and how to book can be found here.
Make the Most of Borrowdale
The Falls Spa
Fancy something a little bit more relaxing? The Falls Spa at Lodore Falls Hotel is the perfect place to to slow down, unwind, and rest those post-hike muscles.
With views of the fells, calming spa facilities and the sound of nearby waterfalls, it’s a peaceful place to recharge and relax.
The best offers can be found here.
Sights Worth Seeing
- Lodore Falls Waterfall – next to the Falls Spa and Lodore Falls Hotel. The waterfall can be accessed by walking through the hotel’s award winning gardens, crossing the beck over a footbridge, and through some woodland before climbing very slightly to reach the falls. There is a bench which allows easy viewing of the falls if you wish to relax and enjoy the view.
- Bowder Stone – As one of the most famous rocks in the Lake District, it weighs 2000 tonnes and is 30 feet in height. There’s even a fixed ladder which you can use to climb to the top.
- The “Hundred Year Stone” – a sculpture by artist Peter Randall-Page located on the shores of Derwentwater. It is a carved glacial boulder, commissioned by the National Trust in 1995 to mark its 100th anniversary.
Adventure Hunter
Does that describe you? Adventure Hunter is a local family business ran by highly-qualified instructors, offers many Lake District activities from ghyll scrambling and paddleboarding, to mountain climbing and canoeing. Guests of Lake District Hotels can enjoy 15% off. Book your activities online here.
Honister Zip Wire – NEW
Fancy a thrill during your break in Borrowdale? Honister Slate Mine has recently opened England’s longest zip line. Launching from high on Honister Crag, riders soar over 1.2km across the dramatic Borrowdale Valley at speeds of up to 65mph, following the historic route once used to transport slate from the mountain. Accessible by the 77A Stagecoach bus or by car. More info can be found here.
Keswick Market
Just a 10 minute drive from Borrowdale is the virbant market town of Keswick. Their popular market is worth visiting on Thursdays and Saturdays. This a free activity (although you will be tempted to make a purchase or five!) There are no cars allowed in the pedestrianised area of Market Square which makes for a safe, family and dog-friendly experience.
Wake Up to Valley Views...
After a day exploring Borrowdale’s fells, woodland and lakeshore, the Borrowdale Hotel offers a warm welcoming base to return to.
Set beneath Shepherds Crag and close to scenic walks, it combines classic country-house charm with comfortable rooms, great food and beautiful views – the perfect place to relax after a day outdoors.
Guests can also look forward to warm, attentive service from the team, along with freshly refurbished rooms designed for comfort and relaxation. The well-kept gardens offer a peaceful spot to unwind, with lovely views across the surrounding fells, making it easy to soak up the scenery without even having to leave the hotel.
Don’t forget to invite your four-legged friends and book one of our dog-friendly rooms.
Best offers are found by booking directly with us here or by calling us on 0330 0564 884
Please remember that you are responsible for your own safety when exploring the Lake District. Always check the weather, plan your route, and ensure you are properly prepared. We share these walks and activities for inspiration only and accept no responsibility for any incidents or accidents that may occur.
