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 a number of shops so your pup can refresh themselves, and lots of pubs, cafés and restaurants are pet-friendly too.

So here are all the things you can do 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

he 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 room, 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.

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 the 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 stately home just outside of Keswick. Though dogs are restricted indoors, they have 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!

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. Canoe hire

If you’re 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.