Culture

Theatre by the Lake

Theatre by the Lake has a setting on the shores of Derwentwater no other professional theatre in Britain can match. Each year it stages up to nine of its own productions of classic, modern and new plays on its two stages and has won multi-starred reviews from national critics. It also hosts festivals of literature, jazz, film and mountains. Daytime and evening refreshments are available from light snacks to pre-theatre meals.

Wordsworth House & Gardens

Step back in time to the 1770s and experience William Wordsworth’s childhood home. The house is peopled by friendly, knowledgeable guides. There is real food on the dining table and a fire burning in the kitchen grate. There is a daily children’s trail, and down in the cellar, the household’s ghosts are waiting to tell their stories.

Explore the working 18th-century kitchen, discover the weird and wonderful details of Georgian life, from what the Wordsworth family ate to how often they washed.

Keswick Museum

Exhibitions, events and displays telling the story of Keswick’s landscape, history and culture with a shop and great cafe. 

Situated in the beautiful Fitz Park next to the popular playground and near the Keswick to Threlkeld railway walking trail.

Through our exhibitions, family activities and special events throughout the year, find out about life in Keswick and its surrounds – its characters, industries, arts and the many stories that have put the town firmly on the Lake District map.

The Lakes Distillery

The largest whisky distillery in England, set near the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake. There is has a wide range of facilities for visitors of all ages to enjoy, including an interactive tour to suit all ages which follows the journey of how the distillery’s whisky, gin and vodka are made and includes a tasting session at the end. Whether you are looking for a souvenir or a unique gift, the distillery shop offers a variety of primarily local products to suit all tastes.

Rheged Centre

Rheged is a gallery, café, cinema, shopping venue, workplace and creative space on the edge of the Northern Lakes. A place where friends, family and colleagues can share a meal, watch a film, hold a meeting, see an exhibition, buy a gift or catch up over coffee. A flexible space for getting together or enjoying time alone with a book or notepad; a place where stories are told, ideas are sparked and the Cumbrian landscape is a constant source of inspiration.

Mirehouse & Gardens

Set in the heart of the North Lake District, three miles from Keswick, the beautiful, natural gardens at Mirehouse offer stunning views of the dramatic Lakeland landscape they are set in.

Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the walled Bee Garden, stroll in quiet contemplation along the Poetry Walk, explore woods and farmland, enjoy the adventure playgrounds or relax by the shores of Bassenthwaite Lake.

In the house, a relaxed welcome offers something truly magical for visitors of all ages.  Be inspired by its unique literary connections and beautiful collections, while enjoying the live piano music and children’s activities, as you wander through this family home.

Derwent Pencil Museum

The home of the first pencil, and the Cumberland Pencil Company, manufacturers of Derwent pencil perfection since 1832.

Enter the Museum through a replica of the Seathwaite mine where graphite was first discovered in the 1550’s. Through words, pictures and carefully restored machinery you can trace the history of pencil making and see how we make Derwent Fine Art pencils today.

Threlkeld Mining Museum

The museum offers activities for all the family, from budding geologists to hopeful prospectors. It includes: An underground tour of a mine, A comprehensive geological and mining museum, The quarry site with a unique collection of machinery. A narrow gauge railway that runs into the old quarry – the trip lasts around 25 minutes. Mineral panning, Ample free parking, shop and hot and cold drinks.

Alhambra

Built in 1913 the Keswick Alhambra Cinema is one of the UK’s Original picture houses. It boasts state-of-the art sound and projection in traditional surroundings. See the latest film releases, and live satellite-streamed theatre, opera and ballet. Drinks and snacks are available on site.

Visit Keswick Tourism’s Website for more details, and information on the numerous festivals held throughout the busy annual calendar and many more attractions.