4 Night Northern Lake District Gentle Guided Walking Holiday

Derwent Bank, Keswick
Big Walking Sale 2026

4 nights at an HF Country House

Availability Aug-Oct 2026, Apr-Oct 2027

One itinerary available

Full Board

Grades 1, 2 & 3 details

63kg CO2 details

Non-members From

£709

pp

Members From

£679

pp

For group booking of 10 or more please click here
Ideal for those wanting to explore the Northern Lake District at a more relaxed and leisurely pace, this gentle guided walking holiday rewards with glorious trails, postcard-perfect views, and comfortable accommodation at Derwent Bank - our country house set in lovely grounds that slope down to the shores of Derwentwater. You’ll also enjoy a choice of up to three different-grade daily walks, including a gentle walk (3-4.5 miles).

Accommodation

HF Country House
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.
Derwent Bank hotel and Derwent Water area. Stills from drone.

Walking grades and options

This trip is graded Activity Level 1, 2 and 3.

Our best-selling guided walking holidays run throughout the year - with their daily choice of up to three walks, these breaks are ideal for anyone who enjoys exploring the countryside on foot. Perhaps choose an Easier walk, then build up to something more challenging as your holiday progresses.


What You’ll Love

  • Discovering the gorgeous Northern Lake District on foot
  • Admiring the spectacular Aira Force Waterfall
  • Enjoying views across Derwentwater from Catbells Terrace
  • 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

  • En-suite accommodation in our 4-star 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 three guided walks (each walking day) from March to October, and two from November to February.
  • 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

Reviews


Itinerary

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.

Gentle Walks

Check-in at the hotel is available from 16:00. If you are a member you can arrive at the house from 14:00. Enjoy a complimentary cream tea at 16:30 and meet other guests.

Option 1 - Around Swinside and Newlands

Distance: 6 miles (9.5km)

Ascent: 800 feet (240m)

In summary: Today's walk takes us into the Newlands Valley. We head through Portinscale and the outskirts of Braithwaite, then walk below Barrow and across the valley to Ghyll Bank. We pick up the Cumbria Way for a pleasant stroll back to the house.  

Highlight: Picturesque Newlands Valley is a lovely area surrounded by towering fells.  

Option 2 - Derwentwater Shore

Distance: 3.5 miles (6km) 

Ascent: 500 feet (160m) 

In summary: Whilst we do retrace our steps on this walk it is a delight in either direction. Initially following woodland track we first come to the water at Derwent Bay and from here continue on a more uneven path along the shoreline. On the return you may wish to view the lovely walled garden on the Lingholm estate.  

Highlight: Take in the view of imposing Skiddaw above Keswick and across the water to the islands. 

Option 3 - Catbells Terrace

Distance: 7 miles (11km) 

Total ascent: 1,100 feet (340m) 

In summary: Follow the elevated path along Catbells terrace, then return along the beautiful lakeshore path. 

Highlight: This stunning route is right on our doorstep. Throughout the walk you'll enjoy glorious views over Derwentwater and the surrounding Lakeland fells. 

Option 1 - Aira Force to Glenridding

Distance: 3.5 miles (5.5km) 

Ascent: 300 feet (80m) 

In summary: Visit the spectacular Aira Force waterfall, then follow the low level Ullswater Way footpath to Glenridding. Here we board the Steamer for a cruise along the length of the lake to finish at Pooley Bridge. 

Highlight: Great views of the lake and surrounding mountains and a relaxing drink in Pooley Bridge! 

Option 2 - Along the Ullswater Way

Distance: 6½ miles (10.5km) 

Ascent: 1,100 feet (340m) 

In summary: Beginning at the pretty Watermillock church we join the Ullswater Way, and follow woodland paths before gently climbing to the spectacular terrace path below Gowbarrow. We descend to the famous Aira Force waterfall and finish following the Ullswater Way into Glenridding.  

Highlight: The terrace path enjoys wonderful views over Ullswater, described by Wordswoth as 'the happiest combination of beauty and grandeur which any of the lakes affords'.

Option 3 - Gowbarrow and Aira Force

Distance: 7 miles (11km)

Ascent: 1,550 feet (480m)

In summary: We begin our walk at the beautiful Aira Force waterfall, before ascending along the beck towards Dockray. We turn to join the fairly steep path up to summit of Gowbarrow Fell and will hopefully be rewarded with the view from the top. We then descend to the terrace path along the east and south flank of the fell with more wonderful views before continuing down almost to lake level and follow the Ullswater Way into Glenridding.   

Highlight: Spectacular views of Ullswater and the surrounding area from the summit of Gowbarrow Fell.   

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 - Crummock Water and Buttermere

Distance: 8 miles (12.9km)

Ascent: 1,200 feet (360m)

In summary: We begin walking through the woods to the shore of Crummock Water, where we walk alomg the shore before ascending via Squat Beck alongside the flank of Rannerdale Knotts. Lovely views open up before we drop down into Buttermere village. 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 - Around Buttermere

Distance: 4.5 miles (7km)

Ascent: 450 feet (140m)  

In summary: We follow the lakeshore path around the shores of Buttermere. The views are spectacular with towering peaks surrounding us on all sides.

Highlights: The much photographed view from the end of the lake up the valley towards Fleetwith Pike.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before making your way home.

Daily Walk Options

Grade 1 Grade 2

Easier Walks

Walk at a relaxed pace, often spending time at places of interest en-route. Walking experience isn’t necessary as distances are quite short and gradients generally easy.

Grade 3

Medium Walks

Walks follow well-defined paths, though often in hilly or upland areas, or along rugged coastal footpaths. These may be rough or steep in sections and will require reasonable fitness.

Accommodation

Derwent Bank, Keswick

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.

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, HF Holidays Inter-House Quiz night held after dinner on Wednesdays is a weekly staple. Your HF Holidays leader may be around for tips on guided and self-guided waking routes as well as visit-worthy local attractions.

Walks talks 
Our HF Holidays walk leaders host guided walking information briefings before dinner on guided walking holiday arrival days. This is followed by a group Walks Talk for information on the following day’s guided walks (held before dinner every evening). Self-guided walking guests are, of course, welcome.  

The walking day
Prior to setting off on guided 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. 

You are welcome to check in from 4pm at the earliest. HF Members can check in earlier, from 2pm. 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. Check out 10am.

•  40 well-appointed guest rooms  •  Exclusive occupancy: 54 guests minimum  •  Check in from 4:00pm • For members check in from 2:00pm •  Free Wi-Fi  •  Full-board (including cream tea on arrival)  •  Free on-site parking  •  Boot room and drying room  •  2 travel cots & high chair  •  Discovery Point offering a wide range of local area maps, route guides, and information for self-guided walks  •  Books and games to borrow  •  Licensed bar  •  Lounge  •  Garden  •  Electric vehicle charging point - Please note, you will need to bring your own cables to use this EV charging point Visit England - Guest Accommodation

Seasonal dining, tailored for you

Our team of skilled chefs design our dinner menus to showcase the best of each season, from warming winter comfort food to vibrant summer dishes, including vegetarian, vegan  and high-protein options. We also source fruit and vegetables within a  40-mile radius of each house, open every break with a Chef’s Special menu inspired by dishes and flavours of the local area, and are able to adapt dishes to suit special dietary requirements.

Welcome Cream Tea

What better way to start your stay than with a cream tea, served fresh on arrival to make you feel instantly at home.  A quintessentially English tradition, our scones are baked in-house and served with preserves and clotted cream, providing the perfect opportunity to meet fellow walkers.

A hearty breakfast to start the day

Start the day with a freshly-prepared cooked breakfast  and a wide choice from our continental buffet, including  hot drinks, juices and fresh fruit. Our team offer a quick  and friendly service, leaving you fuelled and ready for your day’s adventures.

Our famous picnic lunch

Our personalised picnic lunches are perfect for a day out walking, ready to enjoy when hunger strikes. Choose from a large selection of fresh sandwiches and salads, freshly baked cakes and snacks, including the ever-popular Freddos chocolate bar! Everything is designed to fit neatly into your rucksack, and all of the packaging we provide is recyclable or compostable.

3-course evening meals

Our à la carte evening menus feature a wide choice of starters, mains, and desserts, made with seasonal ingredients and, wherever possible, herbs and vegetables from our own gardens. Shared around sociable tables, dinners are relaxed occasions, with drinks available to order at the table or from the bar, and a traditional Sunday roast to round off the week.

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.

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.

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. 

 

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 

For accessibility and assistance information, please contact our expert team on 020 3974 8865 or view the accessibility information online for Derwent Bank

Getting here

Address

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.

2026 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 A Cab Taxis directly.

A Cabs Penrith
You can pre-book a taxi from our recommended company, A Cabs Penrith*. We recommend booking your taxi at least seven days in advance by contacting:

Tel: +44 (0)7482 289021
Email: acabspenrith@gmail.com

A return journey can be arranged on your behalf by the HF Holidays House Manager at Derwent Bank.

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. We recommend booking a taxi in advance.

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. 

More Information

Walking safety

Walks may be changed for safety reasons and are subject to a maximum and minimum number of guests.

Leaders always consider the safety of the group as a whole, and may need to alter or curtail the walk if the conditions dictate. Your leader may refuse to accept a guest where clothing, equipment or behaviour is unsuitable. In the event of a problem all leaders carry a mobile phone, first aid kit, group shelter, spare maps and a compass.

Please note: If you choose to leave the group your leader is no longer responsible for you.

If you have a particular health condition or disability please put this on your guest registration form. This information will be confidential to your leaders and the house manager, but leaders do need to take account of any issues when planning walks. Please carry a copy of these trip notes with you, or note down the contact phone number for your accommodation (details in the travel section) should you need them in case of emergency.

Packing list - UK Guided Walking

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  

For holidays operating October through to the end of March, please also bring the following on your walks:

  • spare warm clothing
  • spare high energy food
  • head torch and spare batteries
  • please note for the October to March season your waterproof jacket needs to offer a high level of waterproofing and wind resistance, and a hood. Look for a waterproof jacket with sealed/taped seams and a minimum HH (hyrodstatic head - this is the rating given on waterproof jackets) of 10,000mm+

Recommended  

  • Several base layers (long-sleeve or short-sleeve)  
  • Cushioned walking socks to avoid blisters  
  • First aid kit, including plasters and insect repellent and tick remover tool
  • Sit mat   
  • Waterproof pouch for valuables  
  • Rubbish bag (remember to always leave no trace)  
  • Wallet/purse  
  • Camera
  • Walking poles

Carbon Footprint - 63kg CO2

We see it as our responsibility to minimise our emissions, not just for this year but every year to come. Our work with sustainability experts, ecollective, has enabled us to measure our carbon footprint and create a strategy to reduce the carbon intensity of our product by 5% each year. Our ambition is to be net zero by 2040 – earlier if we can.

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Dates & availability

4 Night Northern Lake District Gentle Guided Walking Holiday

Members save an additional £30 on this booking and get a range of other exclusive benefits. You can join during booking process. Read more about membership

2026

10 Aug - 14 Aug 2026

4 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£929

pp

Members

£899

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

24 Aug - 28 Aug 2026

4 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£929

pp

Members

£899

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

7 Sep - 11 Sep 2026

4 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£909

pp

Members

£879

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

Save £50 Per Person

5 Oct - 9 Oct 2026

4 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£759 £709

pp

Members

£729 £679

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

£799 £749

pp

£769 £719

pp

12 Oct - 16 Oct 2026

4 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£759

pp

Members

£729

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

2027

12 Apr - 16 Apr 2027

4 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£749

pp

Members

£719

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

£789

pp

£759

pp

26 Apr - 30 Apr 2027

4 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£749

pp

Members

£719

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

17 May - 21 May 2027

4 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£939

pp

Members

£909

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

£879

pp

£849

pp

21 Jun - 25 Jun 2027

4 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£939

pp

Members

£909

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

28 Jun - 2 Jul 2027

4 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£839

pp

Members

£809

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

£879

pp

£849

pp

9 Aug - 13 Aug 2027

4 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£819

pp

Members

£789

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

£859

pp

£829

pp

23 Aug - 27 Aug 2027

4 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£819

pp

Members

£789

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

£859

pp

£829

pp

6 Sep - 10 Sep 2027

4 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£949

pp

Members

£919

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

£889

pp

£859

pp

11 Oct - 15 Oct 2027

4 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£749

pp

Members

£719

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

18 Oct - 22 Oct 2027

4 nights. Trip notes

Twin & double rooms

Non-members

£749

pp

Members

£719

pp
Single rooms

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

Call to enquire 020 3974 8865

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We are proud to be Britain’s only walking holiday co-operative. Led by almost 40,000 members, offering hundreds of holidays across the UK and overseas, with all surplus being reinvested back into our Society.

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Flexible choice of guided walks

Experienced volunteer HF Leaders guide every walk at our UK country houses, offering up to three daily options. Making it easy to find a holiday to suit your ability, and with the flexibility to switch grades each walking day.

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Book early with confidence

Become an HF Member to benefit from our Price Pledge. Secure your first choice of holiday early, and if the cost drops after you book, we will automatically refund the difference (exc. travel agent & group bookings).

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Book with confidence

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

If we cancel your holiday, we honour all refund requests 

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Travel with confidence

We know that peace of mind is priceless, so we’ll always go above and beyond to meet – and exceed – expectations

If the flights we have organised are cancelled or changed, we’ll do everything we can to find alternative transport, with minimal disruption to your holiday

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HF Holidays

A British heritage brand with 111 years of experience

Offering a choice of over 260 itineraries in nearly 40 countries

Run as a co-operative with 40,000-plus members

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