Best lakes around Wythop are found in the northern Lake District, an area closely associated with Bassenthwaite Lake. The region features fells and woodlands, offering panoramic views of Bassenthwaite Lake and the surrounding landscape, including the Skiddaw mountain range. This location provides opportunities for walking, cycling, and appreciating natural beauty. Wythop Woods walking routes offer diverse hiking experiences, combining woodland paths, open fellside, and lakeside views.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
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Great place to start a walk up to Catbells
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Pier for the ferry
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Tranquil place where you can go open water swimming
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Keswick Launch jetty. Tickets can be purchased on the boat. For more details about Keswick Launch, visit https://keswick-launch.co.uk/ These cruises sail past Derwentwater's four islands, now owned by the National Trust and each with its own special history; Derwent Island, Lord’s Island, Rampsholme and St Herbert’s Island. The latter can be seen from the west shore, and is named after the saint who brought Christianity to the area in 685 AD. Legend tells us that on St Herbert's death on 20th March 687, his wish to die the same day as his great friend, St Cuthbert, was fufilled. After his death, the island he lived on as a hermit became a place of pilgrimage, and St. Herbert’s cell can still be identified amongst the undergrowth. St Herbert’s is also the inspiration for the fictional Owl Island in Beatrix Potter’s ‘The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin’. Derwentwater and St. Herbert’s Island was also used as a filming location for the 1974 and 2016 Swallows and Amazons films.
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Keswick Launch jetty. Tickets can be purchased on the boat. For more details about Keswick Launch, visit https://keswick-launch.co.uk/ These cruises sail past Derwentwater's four islands, now owned by the National Trust and each with its own special history; Derwent Island, Lord’s Island, Rampsholme and St Herbert’s Island. The latter can be seen from the west shore, and is named after the saint who brought Christianity to the area in 685 AD. Legend tells us that on St Herbert's death on 20th March 687, his wish to die the same day as his great friend, St Cuthbert, was fufilled. After his death, the island he lived on as a hermit became a place of pilgrimage, and St. Herbert’s cell can still be identified amongst the undergrowth. St Herbert’s is also the inspiration for the fictional Owl Island in Beatrix Potter’s ‘The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin’. Derwentwater and St. Herbert’s Island was also used as a filming location for the 1974 and 2016 Swallows and Amazons films.
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beautiful views and fairly easy walk to the top if you go via the village and not by the waterside. If you are not great at walking I would suggest going back down the hill the way you came as the loop down. The access is not great and can be slippy on a wet day.
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While Wythop is closely associated with Bassenthwaite Lake, visitors also enjoy other nearby Lake District gems. You can find splendid views across Derwentwater towards Catbells from Walla Crag overlooking Derwent Water. Another must-see spot is View of Buttermere and Crummock Water from Rannerdale Knotts, offering outstanding views of these two beautiful lakes.
Yes, the area offers numerous hiking opportunities. You can explore trails like the Sale Fell & Ling Fell loop or the easy Ling Fell Trig Point – Ling Fell Summit loop from Wythop. For more options, check out the Hiking around Wythop guide.
Beyond hiking, the region is popular for running and gravel biking. You can find various routes, such as the Rivings Summit Cairn – Sale Fell loop for running or challenging gravel biking trails like The Skiddaw Roll from Keswick. Explore more in the Running Trails around Wythop and Gravel biking around Wythop guides.
Yes, open water swimming is possible in some areas. For instance, Low Brandlehow Jetty on Derwentwater is a tranquil spot that allows for open water swimming.
While exploring Wythop Woods and areas near Bassenthwaite Lake, you might spot red squirrels and various bird species, including woodpeckers and owls. If you're fortunate, otters might also be seen near the lakeside.
Many spots are family-friendly. Low Brandlehow Jetty on Derwentwater is a great access point for lake activities, and the town of Keswick offers amenities and cultural attractions suitable for families. Walks like the one to Walla Crag are also considered family-friendly.
For exploring Derwentwater, the Keswick Launch offers cruises past its islands. You can board these cruises from jetties like Low Brandlehow Jetty or Hawes End Jetty. Tickets can often be purchased directly on the boat.
The nearby market town of Keswick is a popular hub with a huge number of cafes, pubs, restaurants, and shops. The Lingholm Kitchen and Walled Garden near Hawes End Jetty is also a good option for refreshments.
The Lake District is beautiful year-round. Spring is particularly noted for the bluebells around Rannerdale Knotts, offering a stunning display. Summer provides ideal conditions for water activities and longer walks, while autumn brings vibrant foliage. Winter offers a quieter, often dramatic landscape.
Yes, the area has historical significance. Wythop Mill, a historic watermill dating back to the 16th century, is located in the village. Additionally, near Walla Crag, you can find the picturesque and historic Castlerigg Stone Circle. St Herbert's Island on Derwentwater also has a rich history, named after a saint who lived there as a hermit.
Visitors frequently praise the stunning panoramic views, such as those from Walla Crag over Derwentwater, and the outstanding vistas of Buttermere and Crummock Water from Rannerdale Knotts. The tranquility of spots like Low Brandlehow Jetty and the diverse walking experiences through woodlands and fells are also highly appreciated.


Still not found your perfect lake around Wythop? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.