Outdoor Adventure Activities in the Lake District

Canoeing on Derwentwater near Keswick

The Lake District truly is a playground of outdoor activities. From high up on (and above!) the mountains to deep below the water and in the depths of the fells, there’s something to suit every adventurous taste.

Pioneers of Outdoor Adventure

For many years, the Lake District has been the go-to place for anyone who wanted to get out in the great outdoors to admire the beautiful scenery. Pioneers of rock climbing made record breaking achievements in the national park. And it draws, to this day, those who want to test themselves in the landscape.

Fortunately, you no longer have to scale cliff faces without ropes, or sail the waters with only the most basic equipment. Outdoor adventure activities are now accessible to almost everyone thanks to an improved understanding of the landscape and an increased focus on safety. Adults and children alike can slide down river ghylls, ascend rocky mountains, or glide across the water. All the while, you can be fully assured that they’re in the safest of hands.

Gently Does It or Full Throttle?

Thanks to its varied landscape, the Lake District – and particularly the area around Keswick and the Newlands Valley – has all sorts to offer when it comes to getting out and about. If you’re a little nervous, a relaxing paddle board or gentle canoe trip could be perfect. If you’re after a bit more adrenaline, then perhaps you should go canynoning down a mountain river.

Whatever your tastes, abilities, or age, we at Keswick Adventures are delighted to be able to welcome you to the England’s Adventure Capital and to show you the ropes in a safe and fun way. You can browse our outdoor activities now to find out more and book your place, or continue reading below.

Read some of our favourite blogs:

8 March 2023

Guide to Derwentwater in the Lake District

Derwentwater is one of the Lake District’s most famous and best loved lakes thanks to its ease of access, position close to the town of Keswick, spectacular views, and activities available. It’s also the lake where many of our outdoor adventure activities take place, so we’re in, on and around it on an almost daily basis! So here’s our guide to our favourite lake in the Lake District!
9 February 2023

The Best Places for Kayaking in the Lake District

Kayaking is one of the most popular outdoor adventures in the Lake District, so it’s fortunate that there are plenty of places where you can get out onto the water. This incredibly peaceful activity is one of our absolute favourite ways to get out on the water.
11 January 2023

The Most Amazing Hen Do Ideas in the Lake District

It’s that time of year for planning your hen do activities and creating a memorable experience for the bride-to-be. Cumbria is an incredible destination for your party: as well as a huge choice of outdoor activities, we boast plenty of top-notch cuisine, brilliant festivals, and quirky experiences.
6 December 2022

9 of the Best Keswick Watersports

Keswick is a real playground for watersports: there’s a reason it’s known as the adventure capital of the Lake District! The town sits on Derwentwater, one of the most popular lakes in the national park, and the River Derwent and River Greta both run through the town.
23 November 2022

The 15 Best Stag Do Activities in the Lake District

What do you do during a stag weekend in the Lake District? Well, the real question is what can’t you do! For day and night, there are loads of activities for your group to enjoy. Browse our pick of the best things to do for your Lake District stag do.
9 November 2022

9 Amazing Outdoor Team Building Activity Ideas

What could be better for a team building activity day than getting outdoors in the beautiful Lake District and Cumbria, where we have so much open space as well as the water and the hills? The landscape offers a lot of opportunities for out-of-the-ordinary team days out, as well as more traditional corporate activities.
14 September 2022

The Best Outdoor Activities in the Lake District

There are absolutely loads of outdoor activities in the Lake District. With the varied landscape of valleys, mountains, rivers, crags and - of course - lakes, you truly are spoiled for choice when you want to get some fresh air. Take some inspiration from the below outdoor activities in Cumbria and get ready for an incredible time.