
Discover more at Borrowdale and Derwent Water
Find out how to get to Borrowdale and Derwent Water, where to park, the things to see and do and more.
Discover the top things to see and do during your visit to Borrowdale, including scenic walks, ancient woodlands, far-reaching views and famous Lake District landmarks such as the Bowder Stone. There’s also a ‘scenic drive for the brave’ up the steep, narrow road that leads from the lakeshore past Ashness Bridge and Surprise View to the hanging valley of Watendlath.
Take a peek at some of the highlights waiting to be discovered on your visit
After the jaws of Borrowdale, the valley opens up again revealing the pattern of valley-bottom farm fields and drystone walls that surround the farming villages and hamlets.
The pattern of farming hamlets surrounded by valley-bottom fields and drystone walls is part of the cultural heritage of the Lake District World Heritage Site. The thicker the walls, the older they are.
The hardy Herdwick sheep are also part of the cultural heritage of the Lake District – the farmers who breed them take pride in raising livestock that embody the knowledge and experience passed down from generation to generation. We’re working with National Trust tenant farmers to help them adapt to the pressures of climate change while keeping their heritage alive.
Find out how to get to Borrowdale and Derwent Water, where to park, the things to see and do and more.
Discover the internationally significant ‘Atlantic oakwoods’ and Derwent Water which support a variety of rare species of plants and animals, including the red squirrel and vendace.
There are nine National Trust car parks in Borrowdale and Derwent Water to choose from. Find out how to find them and how much parking costs.
Take to the water for a spot of canoeing, paddleboarding or paddling. The islands of Derwent Water are waiting to be discovered
Take in the views from Friar’s Crag and visit historic sculptures on a lakeside walk around Derwent Water or set off from Keswick to explore the surrounding woodlands and fells.
Plan a visit to one of the special countryside places in our care and discover the benefits of being in the great outdoors. Pack your walking boots and get ready to explore woodlands, valleys and rivers.
Explore the Lake District's majestic mountains – among them Scafell Pike, the tallest in England – ancient woodland, hidden waterfalls, rugged coastline and, of course, its many lakes. You might even spot a red squirrel, roe deer or bird of prey.
Explore some of the finest landscapes in our care on coastal paths, accessible trails, woodland walks and everything in between. Find the best places to walk near you.