Keswick is a dog-friendly town. You'll see many a pooch as you wander around: big dogs, small dogs, old dogs, young dogs… Water stations are set out at a number of shops so your pup can refresh themselves, and lots of pubs, cafés and restaurants are pet-friendly too.

And if you want to give your dog a rest while you try something different, then take a look at our outdoor activities.

So here are all the things you can do in and around Keswick with a dog:

1. Walking

Of course, walking is the ultimate pet-friendly activity in Keswick! There are loads of options to suit every dog, from the most active collie to those lazy lumps who like an easy life. Catbells and Latrigg are wonderful small mountains, or Skiddaw and Blencathra pose challenges for more energetic pooches. A loop of Derwentwater lake is very pleasant, with good paths most of the way around.

There are often farm animals grazing on these walks, and lots of wildlife around, so remember to keep your dog under control at all times.

If you're new to the area and would love a dog-friendly guided walk, get in touch today.

2. Derwent Pencil Museum

Learn about the history of graphite mining in the local area and the important undercover role the humble pencil played in WW2. This quirky museum is a mine of interesting information! Dogs are welcome in the museum on leads, and in the outside seating area of the café.

3. The Puzzling Place

The Puzzling Place is another weird and wonderful dog-friendly attraction in Keswick. Full of mind-bending illusions and wacky optical tricks, you're sure to have plenty of laughs. Defy the natural laws of gravity, grow to ginormous proportions and be amazed in the Hologram Gallery. Your dog is welcome too, though might be confused by the bizarre sights!

4. Swimming

Derwentwater is an amazing location for swimming and your dog is sure to love jumping off one of the jetties (just make sure there are no boats nearby!). Calf Close Bay on the east shore has a decent stretch of pebble beach that's great for a picnic and a paddle.

Note: Blue green algae - which can be very dangerous to dogs - is occasionally found in Derwentwater. You should avoid allowing your dog to swim in these areas. Find out how to spot it.

5. Podgy Paws

Though not an attraction as such, a dog-friendly visit to Keswick isn't complete without a stop at Podgy Paws. This canine-focused shop is a wonderland of doggy products, from the everyday necessities to specialist kit. You'll find yummy treats and tantalising toys, as well as practical items such as leads, harnesses and coats. There are also more unusual items such as goggles, hearing protectors, and dog carriers so your pup can join in with any adventure activity!

6. Mirehouse

Mirehouse is a beautiful and homely historic house just outside of Keswick. Though dogs are restricted indoors, there are extensive gardens to explore. Dogs should be kept on a short lead while you wander along the lakeside walk, pass through the terraced gardens and heather maze, explore the parklands, or even take a stroll down lovers lane!

Mirehouse is only open on select dates, so please check their website before turning up.

7. Keswick Launch

Hop onto one of Keswick's famous boats to cruise around Derwentwater. Dogs are welcome free of charge and together you can sail around the whole lake or stop off at one of several jetties and walk back to your starting point. This opens up some perfect dog walks around Keswick without the need to lap the entire lake.

8. Whinlatter Forest

The smells and sounds of a forest pose a great attraction for dogs, which is why you should include a visit to Whinlatter Forest during your Lake District trip. Just a 10-minute drive outside of Keswick, this extensive mountain woodland has lots of winding trails, stunning views, and even a dog-friendly café.

9. Dog-friendly pubs

Keswick is full of dog-friendly pubs. In fact, there's hardly one in the town that doesn't welcome your fluffy friend! The Dog and Gun is really central and is as famous for being dog friendly as it is for its Goulash. Or The Kings Arms has a lounge and bar that welcomes dogs throughout the day, as well as dog friendly rooms if you'd like somewhere central to stay.

10. Canoe hire

If your dog has dreams of swashbuckling adventures on the high seas, then why not hire a canoe together on Derwentwater? You can hire one from Nichol End Marina, just across the lake from Keswick. There are various shapes and sizes and dogs who aren't going to rock the boat (literally!) are welcome to join you.

Looking for other things to do in the Lake District? Have a browse of our outdoor activities.