Derwent Water and Surprise View loop from Keswick — Lake District National Park

Derwent Water lies in the Borrowdale valley just south of Keswick, the adventure capital of the northern Lake District. Nestled at the foot of some of the most popular Lakeland fells, you’re guaranteed stunning scenery throughout this Tour. The trail circumnavigating Derwent Water is an obvious low-level challenge, and one used by several local races. It’s a nicely varied route, visiting the popular, easy to reach sites around the lake as well as hidden beaches and airy viewpoints, all on well-maintained trails. At around 10 miles (16 km) in length, with 950 feet (290 m) of ascent, it’s an enjoyable challenge but nowhere near as epic as many of the surrounding routes.
Starting out from Keswick, this Tour takes in an anti-clockwise loop of the Derwent Water. The first half follows the waymarked Cumbria Way around the northern end of the lake and down the western shore to the marshland at its southern tip. Those seeking a more level route can keep to the water’s edge for the return journey, following the road and paths back to Keswick. But this Tour takes you higher up into the fells for spectacular views and fewer road miles. The final stretch along the north-eastern shoreline follows easy paths with wonderful views of the islands, the dramatic backdrop of Cat Bells dominating to the southwest.
Trail running shoes with a mixture of grip and cushioning are best suited to this terrain, but road shoes would be fine unless it’s been very wet. Most runners will take a couple of hours to complete the loop, and Cumbrian weather is notoriously changeable, so carry some water, snacks and an extra layer just in case. Over the summer months you’re likely to find an ice cream van or two on route, but expect refreshment stops to be few and far between.
Keswick is well served by buses from Penrith and other parts of the Lake District. If you’re arriving by car there are several car parks in town – Lake Road is closest to the start. Keswick has one of the best selections of outdoor shops in the country, so if you find you’re missing something you’re in a good place to sort it. There are also plenty of cafes, restaurants, pubs and a Booths supermarket. For excellent, runner-friendly cafes we’d recommend Fellpack on Lake Road or Elm Café upstairs in George Fisher. You’re also spoilt for choice with a range of excellent outdoor friendly accommodation options, including camping, YHA Keswick and cottages, B&B and hotels to suit all budgets.