Best Autumn and Winter Walks Around Keswick & Borrowdale
Discover the quieter side of the Lakes from Mary Mount Hotel.
There’s a special kind of quiet that falls over the Lake District when autumn settles in. The air feels sharper, the fells glow with copper bracken, and the paths around Derwentwater crunch softly underfoot. By winter, the hills turn pale with frost, the lake steams at sunrise, and the only sounds are birds and the ripple of water against the shore.
From Mary Mount, you can walk straight into it. Borrowdale’s trails wind through ancient woodland and along peaceful lakesides — perfect for slow walks, weekend hikes, and happy dogs.
Whether you’re chasing autumn colours or winter calm, these are the walks that show the Lakes at their best.
Experience the Seasons – Why Autumn & Winter Are Magical in the Lakes
Autumn in the Lake District feels alive. The trees around Keswick turn gold and red, bracken covers the hillsides like a burnt-orange blanket, and the late afternoon light makes every ridge glow. It’s the kind of season that slows you down — where even a short stroll by Derwentwater feels special.
Then winter arrives quietly. Mornings start with mist over the lake, the peaks dusted in snow, and that deep, peaceful silence you only get when the air is cold and still. The trails are quieter, the pubs warmer, and the views somehow bigger in the low light.
Whether you’re here for the colours of autumn or the calm of winter, these seasons show a softer, more personal side of the Lakes — one best enjoyed with muddy boots, a good coat, and a sense of wonder.
Top Autumn Walks Near Mary Mount Hotel
Catbells – Panoramic Autumn Views Over Derwentwater
If you picture an autumn walk in the Lake District, this is probably it. Catbells rises gently above Derwentwater, giving you sweeping views across Keswick and Borrowdale. The climb is short but rewarding — perfect for families or anyone after that classic “I’ve made it” view without a full day’s hike.
In autumn, the hillsides turn shades of rust and gold, and the bracken lights up in the afternoon sun. You can even catch the boat from the Lodore jetty near Mary Mount to land right at the start of the trail. It’s one of those walks that reminds you why people fall in love with this place.
Lodore Falls & Woodland Trail – A Waterfall Walk from Your Doorstep
You don’t need to go far for this one — it’s right outside. The Lodore Falls trail starts near Mary Mount, winding through ancient woodland that bursts with colour after autumn rain. The extra rainfall this time of year turns the waterfall into a real showstopper, and the short path makes it a lovely pre-dinner stroll.
It’s a favourite for guests with dogs, too. The woodland paths are soft underfoot, and there’s plenty of space for a good sniff and run around before heading back to dry off by the fire.
Ashness Bridge & Surprise View – Iconic Lake District Vistas
This one’s all about the view. From Mary Mount, you can follow quiet back lanes up to Ashness Bridge — one of the most photographed spots in the Lakes — before climbing slightly higher to Surprise View. From there, you can see the full sweep of Derwentwater, with Skiddaw in the distance and Borrowdale opening below.
It’s an easy walk but one you’ll want to linger on. Bring your camera or a picnic, especially in autumn when the light hits just right and the trees glow like copper.
Top Winter Walks Around Keswick
Derwentwater Lakeshore & Friar’s Crag – A Gentle Winter Stroll
Some walks don’t need to be long to feel special. The path around Derwentwater is flat and easy, with views that change at every turn. Start from Keswick’s boat landings and wander towards Friar’s Crag, where the lake opens up towards Borrowdale.
On clear winter days, the water reflects the snow-dusted peaks like glass. It’s an easy route for families, and the cafés back in Keswick are perfect for warming up afterwards with a coffee or hot chocolate.
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Castle Crag – A Low Fell with Big Winter Views
Castle Crag might be small, but it packs in one of the best views in Borrowdale. The short climb winds through woodland and past slate heaps before opening out to wide views of the valley and Derwentwater beyond.
On crisp winter days, the light catches the ridges and turns them silver. It’s a great choice when higher fells are icy but you still want that sense of adventure.
Keywords: Castle Crag walk, winter fell walks, Borrowdale winter hike
Whinlatter Forest – All-Weather Woodland Paths
If you’re after shelter from the wind, Whinlatter is ideal. The forest sits above Braithwaite and offers well-marked trails that stay walkable in almost any weather. It’s a mix of tall pines, open viewpoints, and steady gradients that make it great for families or anyone walking with dogs.
You’ll often spot red squirrels darting between the trees and, if you’re lucky, the odd glimpse of snow on the distant fells. It’s the kind of place that reminds you how peaceful the Lakes can be in winter.
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Dog-friendly walks to enjoy this season
If you’re bringing your dog to the Lakes, you’ll be spoiled for choice. Most of the trails around Borrowdale and Keswick are dog-friendly, with space to roam, splash, and sniff to their heart’s content.
Catbells, Lodore Falls, and Whinlatter Forest are firm favourites with our four-legged guests. Each offers easy access, plenty of shade, and safe paths away from main roads.
Around Derwentwater, dogs can paddle at the water’s edge or trot happily along the lakeshore trails.
Back at Mary Mount, they’re just as welcome. We’ve got pet-friendly rooms, free stays for dogs, and a few treats waiting behind the bar. After a long day’s walk, there’s nothing better than drying off by the fire while your pup curls up for a nap.
Walking tips for autumn & winter adventures
The Lakes are stunning this time of year, but the weather can change fast. A few simple habits make every walk safer and a lot more comfortable:
- Check the local weather and plan your route before you set off
- Bring waterproofs, a torch, and sturdy boots with good grip
- Keep dogs on leads near livestock or steep drops
- Carry a small snack and water — even short walks feel longer in cold air
- Start early to make the most of daylight, especially in midwinter
- Let someone know where you’re heading if you’re walking solo
These small things help you enjoy the Lake District in every season, whether you’re climbing a fell or strolling by Derwentwater.
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Make it a seasonal escape at Mary Mount
There’s no better time to see the Lakes than now. After a day exploring Catbells, Borrowdale, or the lakeshore trails, head back to Mary Mount for good food, a roaring fire, and a view that never gets old. Our Winter Escape Offer makes it easy to turn a walk into a weekend away — with direct booking perks and pet-friendly rooms that feel like home.
Whether you come for the colours of autumn or the calm of winter, the Lakes always give you something to slow down for.
Why guests love staying lakeside
Guests tell us it’s the mix that makes it special — the view across Derwentwater, the friendly team who remember your name, and the comfort of coming back to log fires after a long walk. It’s simple, honest hospitality, and it’s what keeps people returning year after year.
