3 Night Northern Lake District Guided Walking Holiday
For breathtaking scenery in all directions, little beats the Northern Lake District. This guided walking holiday rewards with glorious trails, visit-worthy attractions, and comfortable accommodation at Derwent Bank - our country house near the market town of Keswick. The setting couldn’t be more ideal; to the west is Cat Bells, to the east is Keswick, Walla Crag, and Latrigg, and to the south is the entrance to the Borrowdale valley.
What you’ll love
- Discovering the gorgeous Northern Lake District on foot
- Admiring rugged mountains and scenic lakes
- Keeping your eyes peeled for wildlife such as red and roe deer
- Spending time with like-minded people in the great outdoors
- Finding new routes and places to explore with your HF Holidays Leader
- Staying at Derwent Bank, our country house near Keswick
What’s included
- Comfortable en-suite accommodation in our country house
- Cream tea on arrival day
- Cooked or continental breakfast every morning
- Daily packed lunches
- Three-course evening meals, plus tea & coffee
- Guided walking with experienced HF Holidays Leaders
- Choice of up to three guided walks (on walking days)
- All transport to and from walks where necessary
- Easy-to-follow routes, maps, and information in our Discovery Point if you want to explore independently
Trip Notes
Easy to download as a PDF, our trip notes provide detailed information for every holiday. Please click below to find the trip notes for your departure date.
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take alternative routes or adapt the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
See Dates, Prices & Trip Note tab to check which itinerary is running
Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival, served from 4.30pm.
Option 1 - Newlands Valley
Distance: 6 miles (10km)
Ascent: 800 feet (260m)
In summary: This walk takes us into the Newlands valley, a sparsely populated farming area surrounded by high fells. We go through Portinscale and the outskirts of Braithwaite before walking along the bottom of Barrow, arriving at Ghyll Bank. We then pick up part of the Cumbria Way to head back to the house.
Highlight: Picturesque Newlands valley, is a lovely quieter area which once inspired William Wordsworth.
Option 2 - Barrow and Outerside
Distance: 9 miles (14.5km)
Ascent: 2,200 feet (680m)
In summary: Cross the Newlands Valley to climb the neighbouring fells of Outerside and Barrow in the Coledale Valley.
Highlight: The grassy slopes of Outerside and Barrow are two delightful lower fells with great views over Bassenthwaite Lake and Derwentwater.
Option 3 - Causey Pike
Distance: 9.5 miles (15.5km)
Ascent: 2,750 feet (840m)
In summary: We'll leave from the house for this circular walk, reaching the summit of Causey Pike and Outerside before making our way back.
Highlight: Spectacular views of the surrounding fells and Derwentwater.
Option 1 - Applethwaite and Latrigg
Distance: 7.5 miles (12.5km)
Ascent: 1,000 feet (300m)
In summary: This walk takes us across flat fields towards the imposing mass of Skiddaw. From the hamlet of Applethwaite we start our gentle climb to the summit of Latrigg. We descend into the market town of Keswick before a level walk across fields and rivers back to the country house.
Highlight: Latrigg packs a real punch for a smaller fell with superb views across Keswick and Derwentwater towards Borrowdale.
Option 2 - Ullock Pike and Carlside
Distance: 7 miles (11.5km)
Ascent: 2,300 feet (700m)
In summary: This walk ascends via the impressive 'Edge' of Ullock Pike with a short traverse of Longside Edge to the summit of Carl Side. A steep descent takes us through Millbeck and Applethwaite as we return to the house.
Highlight: Fantastic views over Bassenthwaite, Derwentwater and all the surrounding fells.
Option 3 - Skiddaw via Ullock Pike
Distance: 11½ miles (19km)
Ascent: 3,150 feet (960m)
In summary: Ascend to the top of Skiddaw via Ullock Pike and Longside Edge, with views over Bassenthwaite Lake. Our descent takes us via the remote Skiddaw House and along the Cumbria Way back to Keswick.
Highlight: Hopefully we will be rewarded with fantastic views in every direction from the lofty summit of Skiddaw.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.
See Dates, Prices & Trip Note tab to check which itinerary is running
Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival, served from 4.30pm.
Option 1 - Cat Bells Terrace
Distance: 7 miles (11km)
Ascent: 1,100 feet (340m)
In summary: Follow the elevated path along Cat Bells terrace, then return along the beautiful lakeshore path.
Highlight: This stunning route is right on our doorstep. Throughout the walk you'll enjoy stunning views over Derwentwater and the surrounding Lakeland fells.
Option 2 - Catbells
Distance: 7 miles (11km)
Ascent: 1,600 feet (500m)
In summary: We begin by heading up the ridge to the summit of Catbells. We then descend to the lakeside path and a beautiful walk along part of the Cumbria Way.
Highlight: Catbells’ shapely summit is one of the most popular fells in the Lake District and affords magnificent views of the Northern Fells.
Option 3 - Cat Bells & High Spy
Distance: 12 miles (19km)
Total ascent: 2,900 feet (920m)
In summary: A Lake District classic right on the doorstep. A great walk from the house over Cat Bells, Maiden Moor and High Spy returning along the tranquil Newlands Valley.
Highlight: The shapely summit of Cat Bells is one of the most popular fells in the Lake District. There are a few rocky sections, but your efforts will be rewarded with a breathtaking view over the lake and the surrounding fells.
Option 1 - Below Blencathra
Distance: 5.5 miles (9km)
Ascent: 250 ft (80m)
In summary: We walk from Threlkeld through fields and along part of the River Greta into Keswick and then back to Derwent Bank.
Highlight: On a clear day you will get fantastic views of Skiddaw and Blencathra.
Option 2 - Glenderaterra Valley
Distance: 10½ miles (17km)
Total ascent: 1,900 feet (580m)
In summary: Walk from the village of Threlkeld into the lonely valley of Glenderaterra Beck. We follow a terraced path high above the valley and take in the stunning viewpoint of Latrigg on our return via Keswick.
Highlight: Look out for the graves of Robert Southey and Canon Rawnsley as you pass Crossthwaite Church.
Option 3 - Blencathra
Distance: 11 miles (17.5km)
Ascent: 3,100 feet (950m)
In summary: Climb to the top of Blencathra via Souther Fell and Scales Fell. Our descent route over Blease Fell allows us to complete the entire Blencathra ridge before finishing by walking back to the house.
Highlight: Ticking off one of the Lake District's most iconic mountains.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.
See Dates, Prices & Trip Note tab to check which itinerary is running
Enjoy a complimentary cream tea on arrival, served from 4.30pm.
Option 1 - Cat Bells Terrace
Distance: 7 miles (11km)
Ascent: 1,100 feet (340m)
In summary: Follow the elevated path along Cat Bells terrace, then return along the beautiful lakeshore path.
Highlight: This stunning route is right on our doorstep. Throughout the walk you'll enjoy stunning views over Derwentwater and the surrounding Lakeland fells.
Option 2 - Cat Bells
Distance: 7 miles (11km)
Ascent: 1,600 feet (500m)
In summary: Starting from the front door we head up the ridge to the summit of Cat Bells. We then descend to the lakeside path and a beautiful walk along part of the Cumbria Way.
Highlight: Cat Bells' shapely summit is one of the most popular fells in the Lake District and affords magnificent views of the Northern Lakes.
Option 3 - Cat Bells and High Spy
Distance: 12 miles (19km)
Total ascent: 2,750 feet (840m)
In summary: Rising above the western shore of Derwentwater is the distinct shape of Cat Bells. After an initial steep ascent we stride out along the ridge of Maiden Moor to High Spy with wonderful views in all directions. Then descent into the upper reaches of the Newlands Valley.
Highlight: The descent via Dalehead Tarn and a waterfall makes for a lovely contrast as we pass old mine workings, farms and the homes of Beatrix Potter’s animal characters.
Option 1 - Squat Beck and Buttermere
Distance: 6½ miles (10km)
Ascent: 800 feet (240m)
In summary: Enjoy the scenery as you walk from Squat Beck through fields and farmyards to the village of Buttermere.
Highlights: Walk to the village of Buttermere where at the time of the Norman Conquest, the English had a secret headquarters where they manned a counter-attack from the valley. Buttermere was one of the few northern valleys the Normans were never able to capture.
Option 2 - Rannerdale Knotts and Crummock
Distance: 9 miles (14.5km)
Ascent: 1,550 feet (480m)
In summary: We begin walking through the woods to the shore of Crummock Water, where we walk alomg the shore before ascending steeply onto Rannerdale Knotts. A smaller fell but with views that really pack a punch. The remainder of the walk follows the shoreline around beautiful Buttermere.
Highlight: The Buttermere valley is one of the most picturesque parts of the Lakes, surrounded by towering peaks on all sides.
Option 3 - Derwent Fells and Buttermere
Distance: 8 miles (12.5km)
Ascent: 3,200 feet (980m)
In summary: From Buttermere village we ascend to the summit of Whiteless Pike, we then follow the ridgeline up to Wandope, Crag Hill and Sail. We than descend down the valley of Sail Beck back into Buttermere village.
Highlight: A high level traverse of some of the most beautiful fells in the Lake District with spectacular views.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.
Derwent Bank
Adored by poets, painters, and literary giants for centuries, the Lake District has always had an irresistible pull. It’s no surprise, then, that this country house near the market town of Keswick holds such appeal, not least for its setting in lovely grounds that slope down to the shores of Derwentwater. The location couldn’t be more perfect; to the west is Cat Bells, to the east is Keswick, Walla Crag, and Latrigg, and to the south is the entrance to the Borrowdale valley. There’s a wealth of big-name attractions within easy travelling distance, including Blencathra, Helvellyn, and Ullswater. Also visit-worthy for walkers is Scafell Pike for its well-trodden routes and trails and the 73-mile-long Cumbria Way for its mist-shrouded peaks, glacial valleys, and many excuses for pit-stops and picnics.
Rooms
Designed with your comfort in mind, Derwent Bank has 40 well-appointed guest rooms available in three categories: Classic, Premium, and Superior.
Classic Rooms are comfortable en-suite guest rooms, ideal for a peaceful night's sleep. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, and shower gel), and a TV.
Premium Rooms are more spacious en-suite guest rooms*. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers, and comfortable mattresses.
Superior Rooms are even more spacious en-suite guest rooms offering upgraded views of the surroundings*. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, tea and coffee-making facilities, toiletries (hand wash, shampoo, body lotion, shower gel), and a 32-inch TV. Extras include bathrobes, slippers, and comfortable mattresses.
We love: Room 12 for its extra space and lovely views across the gardens and Derwentwater. Rooms 46, 47, 48, and 49 are first-floor garden rooms, each with their own balcony.
The Choose Your Room service is available at our UK country houses, allowing you the option of choosing and confirming a specific room for an extra charge of £30 per room. This is subject to availability. Upgrade supplements apply.
Check in & check out
You are welcome to check in from 4:00pm at the earliest. On arrival, you’ll enjoy a complimentary cream tea and get to meet your fellow guests, our HF Holidays Leaders, and the rest of the friendly team.
On the day of departure, we kindly ask all guests to check out by 10:00am. You’ll be asked to settle your bill prior to leaving. You may, of course, make a charitable donation to our HF Holidays Pathways Fund if you wish. Please note that we only accept card payments.
Room supplements
| Superior | Premium single | Premium double/twin | Choose your room |
| £25 pppn | £20 pppn | £20 pppn | £30 per room |
*Views and layout reflect each properties unique character and location
About your stay
A warm welcome
We want you to feel comfortable from the moment you arrive. You’ll find a welcome pack in your room with guest registration forms, menus, order forms for dinners and picnic lunches, the Wi-Fi password, and the front door code. Our houses are locked at night, so we recommend noting the Duty Manager’s number on arrival in case of an emergency (or getting locked out).
Evening entertainment
While evening entertainment varies from house to house, the HF Holidays Big Pub Quiz held after dinner on Wednesdays is a weekly staple. Your HF Holidays Leader may be around for tips on guided and self-guided walking routes as well as visit-worthy local attractions.
Walks talks
Our HF Holidays Leaders host guided walking information briefings before dinner on arrival days. This is followed by a group Walks Talk for information on the following day’s walking delights (held before dinner every evening). Self-guided walking guests are, of course, welcome.
The walking day
Prior to setting off on walks, your HF Holidays Leader will run you through a short safety briefing. There’s also an up-to-date weather forecast on display at the house to ensure you have appropriate clothing and footwear. If you choose to do your own walks or are on a self-guided walking holiday, we ask that you please complete an Independent Walker Card each day. These can be found near the Discovery Point in the house.
Food & drink
Led by experienced chefs, we serve a wide range of dishes made with fresh and seasonal ingredients. We always aim to source the best produce available and use home-grown herbs and vegetables from our own gardens whenever possible. Additionally, we have a licensed bar with beers, soft drinks, and a superb selection of spirits. Full-board comes as standard and includes a cream tea on arrival and a hearty breakfast on departure day.
HF Holidays understands the importance of managing allergens effectively to ensure food is safe for guests with food allergies. Whilst we are always able to confidently inform guests which allergens are present in our ingredients and dishes, we are unable to guarantee absolute freedom from the 14 main allergens in our kitchens. Vegetarian and vegan menu choices are available. If you have allergies, food intolerances, or any special dietary requirements, please inform our reservation team at the time of booking.
Accessibility
For accessibility and assistance information, please contact our expert team on 020 3974 8865 or view the accessibility information online for Derwent Bank
Getting to Derwent Bank
Find out more about this location including travel details and room types.
More InformationAddress
Derwent Bank
Portinscale
Nr Keswick
Cumbria CA12 5TY
Tel: +44 (0)1768 773667
By train
The nearest station is Penrith, on the main line between London and Glasgow.
Check National Rail for train times and routes.
By shared transfer
If you’re travelling to or from Derwent Bank on Mondays or Fridays or over the festive period, you can join our group transfer from Penrith Railway Station.
2024 prices are £50 per person for a return transfer or £25 per person for a single transfer. 2025 prices are £64 per person for a return transfer or £32 per person for a single transfer.
Outward journey: Depart Penrith Railway Station at 16:50; arrive at Derwent Bank at 17:30.
Return journey: Depart Derwent Bank at 09:15; arrive at Penrith Railway Station at 10:00.
Places are limited so booking is essential. We recommend booking at least 14 days in advance by contacting:
HF Holidays Sales and Support Team
Tel: +44 (0)203 974 8865
Email: reservations@hfholidays.co.uk
By taxi
The 20-mile journey from Penrith railway station to Derwent Bank takes about 40 minutes by taxi in normal traffic conditions.
For pricing, please contact Davies Taxis directly.
Davies Taxis
You can pre-book a taxi from our recommended company, Davies Taxis*. We recommend booking your taxi at least seven days in advance by contacting:
Tel: +44 (0)1768 772676
Email: info@daviestaxis.co.uk
A return journey can be arranged on your behalf by the HF Holidays House Manager at Derwent Bank.
*Davies Taxis is not owned or managed by HF Holidays.
By bus
The X5 bus runs approximately every hour from Penrith station and the journey takes around 50 minutes. The nearest bus stop is on the A66, about a three-quarter mile walk from the house.
As you alight the bus at the Portinscale bus stop, turn to your right and go down the road signposted to Portinscale, Grange, and the Newlands Valley. Follow this road through Portinscale village - Derwent Bank is on your left-hand side after the Derwentwater Marina.
Alternatively, catch the X4 or X5 bus to Keswick bus station and take a 10-minute taxi ride to Derwent Bank. As of 2023, this should cost around £6 for a 4-seat taxi if using a pre-booked service with our recommended taxi provider listed above.
By car
There is a large car park at Derwent Bank if you decide to drive.
From Penrith, you’ll need to leave the M6 motorway at junction 40, taking the A66 towards Keswick. After 17 miles you'll reach a roundabout - continue ahead following signs to Cockermouth and Workington. Turn left off the A66 towards Portinscale, Grange, and the Newlands Valley. Derwent Bank is about three quarters of a mile further on the left.
By air
The nearest airport is Manchester International Airport.
There are direct trains every hour from Manchester Airport to Penrith and the journey time is about two hours.
Flying to London Heathrow airport is another option but you’ll have a longer onward train journey – it could take at least 4.5 hours to reach Penrith. From Heathrow, take the train to London Paddington, then the London Underground to London Euston connecting to the main line train to Penrith, which takes three hours.
The UK has a famously unpredictable climate so it's best to be prepared for weather that’s sunny one minute and raining the next. To make it easier, here’s a list of items you should consider packing.
Essentials
- Suitable footwear such as waterproof walking boots that provide ankle support and good grip
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Comfortable clothing (jeans & waterproof capes are not suitable)
- Mid-layer(s) to keep you warm. Fleeces make a good choice
- Waterproof overtrousers
- Gloves and a warm hat
- Rucksack with waterproof liner
- Flask for hot drinks
- Water bottle (at least 1 litre capacity)
- Sunscreen
- UV sunglasses
Recommended
- Several base layers (long-sleeve or short-sleeve)
- Cushioned walking socks to avoid blisters
- First aid kit, including plasters and insect repellent
- Sit mat
- Waterproof pouch for valuables
- Rubbish bag (remember to always leave no trace)
- Wallet/purse
- Camera
- First-aid kit
Derwent Bank Calendar
- Guided Walking
- Self-Guided Walking
- Special Interests
- Unavailable to Book
Guest reviews
All holidays are subject to availability. Supplements may apply.
Non-member fee: £30 per person.
All our carefully-curated itineraries are designed by our experts. While we make every effort to adhere to the described itinerary, we may take an alternative route, or vary the running order for weather and/or operational reasons.
Holiday prices
| Date (Start - End) | Itinerary | Double / Twin Room | Single Room | Notes / Offers | Trip Notes | Book | ||
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| 2025 | ||||||||
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14 Feb - 17 Feb 2025 3 nights |
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14 Mar - 17 Mar 2025 3 nights |
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21 Mar - 24 Mar 2025 3 nights |
Version 3
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from £465 pp |
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04 Apr - 07 Apr 2025 3 nights |
Version 1 Single from £450 Double from £525 pp |
from £525 pp |
from £450 |
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18 Apr - 21 Apr 2025 3 nights |
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02 May - 05 May 2025 3 nights |
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23 May - 26 May 2025 3 nights |
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30 May - 02 Jun 2025 3 nights |
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06 Jun - 09 Jun 2025 3 nights |
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27 Jun - 30 Jun 2025 3 nights |
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04 Jul - 07 Jul 2025 3 nights |
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18 Jul - 21 Jul 2025 3 nights |
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25 Jul - 28 Jul 2025 3 nights |
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08 Aug - 11 Aug 2025 3 nights |
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15 Aug - 18 Aug 2025 3 nights |
Version 1
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05 Sep - 08 Sep 2025 3 nights |
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12 Sep - 15 Sep 2025 3 nights |
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03 Oct - 06 Oct 2025 3 nights |
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07 Nov - 10 Nov 2025 3 nights - Anniversary Celebrations |
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from £465 |
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21 Nov - 24 Nov 2025 3 nights |
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from £465 pp |
from £465 |
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05 Dec - 08 Dec 2025 3 nights |
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from £465 pp |
from £465 |
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52Kg of CO₂e
Average carbon footprint per person Learn More
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