This 10‑mile loop around Derwentwater is one of the most rewarding walks in the Lake District — a perfect blend of forest trails, lakeside paths, sculptures, viewpoints, waterfalls, and peaceful woodland.

🏞️ Derwentwater 10‑Mile Hike | Lake District Walk Guide

If you want a route with a bit of everything, this one delivers from start to finish.

📍 Route List

A). National Trust Great Wood Car Park

B). Hundred Year Stone (sculpture)

C). Friars Crag, Keswick

D). Crow Park, Keswick

E). Fawe Park, Keswick

F). The Coppice, Manesty

G). River Derwent Foot Bridge

H). Lodore Falls

I). Return to National Trust Great Wood Car Park

🌟 Route Breakdown

A). National Trust Great Wood Car Park

A great starting point with easy access to the lakeside path. The trail immediately drops you into peaceful woodland with glimpses of Derwentwater through the trees. Facilities: Pay‑and‑display parking, woodland trails Vibe: Quiet, shaded, perfect for easing into the walk

B). Hundred Year Stone (Sculpture)

A striking carved stone sculpture sitting right on the lakeshore. It’s a brilliant early stop for photos and a moment to take in the views across Derwentwater. Highlight: Beautiful craftsmanship and a great viewpoint Vibe: Calm, artistic, reflective

C). Friars Crag, Keswick

One of the most famous viewpoints in the Lake District. The view across the lake towards Borrowdale is breathtaking — a true postcard moment. Facilities: Benches, viewpoint area Vibe: Iconic, peaceful, unmissable

D). Crow Park, Keswick

A wide open grassy area with panoramic views of the fells. Perfect for a breather, a snack stop, or watching paddleboarders drift across the lake. Facilities: Near Keswick town amenities Vibe: Open, scenic, great for photos

E). Fawe Park, Keswick

A quieter woodland section with gentle undulating paths. This part of the loop feels tucked away and tranquil, with occasional lakeside openings. Highlight: Shaded forest paths Vibe: Calm, natural, great for walkers who love woodland

F). The Coppice, Manesty

A beautiful stretch of the route with a mix of woodland, shoreline, and open views. This area feels remote and untouched — a real contrast to the Keswick side. Highlight: Peaceful lakeside walking Vibe: Serene, scenic, lightly trodden

G). River Derwent Foot Bridge

A charming wooden footbridge crossing the River Derwent. It’s a lovely spot to pause and watch the water flow beneath you. Highlight: Classic Lake District bridge moment Vibe: Quiet, picturesque

H). Lodore Falls

A dramatic waterfall tucked behind the Lodore Falls Hotel. After rain, the falls roar down the rocks — a brilliant natural feature to end the loop. Facilities: Nearby hotel café and toilets Vibe: Atmospheric, powerful, refreshing

I). Return to National Trust Great Wood Car Park

The final stretch loops you back through woodland and lakeside paths, completing the full 10‑mile circuit.

🕒 Recommended Time to Complete

• Fast pace: 3–3.5 hours
• Steady pace: 4–5 hours
• Leisurely with photo + snack stops: 5–6 hours

This is a full but manageable day out — perfect for walkers who want a long, scenic loop without steep climbs.