The Puzzling Place, Keswick
Discover mind-bending optical illusions and interactive exhibits in Keswick’s captivating Puzzling Place.
The Puzzling Place in Keswick is a captivating attraction dedicated to optical illusions and visual phenomena. Visitors explore interactive exhibits like the Anti-gravity Room, where balls appear to roll uphill, and the Ames Room, which distorts size perception. Located in Museum Square, this indoor venue offers a unique, mind-bending experience suitable for all ages, with a gift shop featuring puzzles and curiosities. Open seasonally with varied hours, it’s a must-visit for those intrigued by visual perception.
A brief summary to Puzzling Place
- 9, Museum Square, Keswick, CA12 5DZ, GB
- +441768775102
- Visit website
- Duration: 0.75 to 1.5 hours
- Budget
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Indoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Friday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5:30 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5:30 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance during school holidays to avoid capacity issues.
- Visit on a clear day or outside peak holiday times for a quieter experience.
- Bring children and well-behaved dogs on short leads; under 5s enter free.
- Wear comfortable shoes; the attraction is on the first floor accessed by stairs.
- Explore the gift shop for unique puzzles and curiosities to take home.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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Bus
Take local buses from Keswick bus station to the town centre; the stop near Museum Square is within a 5-minute walk. Buses run frequently with fares around £2-£4. Service frequency varies, so check schedules in advance.
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Car
Driving to Keswick allows flexible timing; parking is available in nearby town centre car parks such as the Central car park, about a 5-10 minute walk to Museum Square. Parking fees typically range from £3 to £8 for a few hours.
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Walking
From Keswick town centre, walk approximately 5-7 minutes along pedestrianized Main Street to Museum Square. The route is flat and suitable for most visitors, but note the attraction is accessed via stairs.
Puzzling Place location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Puzzling Place
Exploring the World of Optical Illusions
The Puzzling Place is a unique attraction in Keswick that immerses visitors in the fascinating realm of optical illusions. Its exhibits challenge the way your eyes and brain interpret reality, creating experiences that appear to defy physics and common sense. Central to the attraction is the Anti-gravity Room, where you’ll witness balls seemingly rolling uphill, a phenomenon that plays tricks on your perception of gravity. Another highlight is the Ames Room, an illusionary space that alters size perception, allowing visitors to appear to grow or shrink dramatically as they move across the room. These interactive illusions provide both entertainment and insight into human visual processing.Location and Setting
Situated at 9 Museum Square, just off Keswick’s pedestrianized Main Street, The Puzzling Place occupies an indoor space accessible via a flight of stairs. The venue is centrally located, making it easy to include in a day exploring Keswick’s cultural offerings. Despite its indoor setting, the attraction’s design maximizes engagement with light and space to enhance the illusionary effects. The venue also houses a well-stocked gift shop filled with puzzles, gadgets, and curiosities that extend the theme of mental challenge and amusement beyond the main exhibits.Visitor Experience and Accessibility
Visitors typically spend around 45 minutes to an hour exploring the exhibitions, engaging with the illusions and brain teasers. The venue is family-friendly and welcomes well-behaved dogs on short leads, who can enter free of charge. However, accessibility is limited by the presence of stairs, as the attraction is located on the first floor without current wheelchair access. The Puzzling Place does not have an on-site café, but Keswick’s town centre offers a variety of nearby dining options. Booking in advance is recommended during school holidays and busy periods to avoid disappointment.Seasonal Opening Hours and Admission
The Puzzling Place operates seasonally with varying hours: during local school holidays, it is open seven days a week from 10am to 5:30pm, while in the winter months (November to mid-March) it closes on Mondays and operates shorter hours from 11am to 5pm. Admission prices are modest, with adults paying around £4.50, children and concessions slightly less, and free entry for under-fives. Family tickets are available, and group rates can be arranged. The attraction’s indoor nature makes it an excellent option for rainy days or cooler weather.Atmosphere and Unique Appeal
The Puzzling Place offers a lively and engaging atmosphere where curiosity and wonder are sparked by the playful manipulation of perception. Its quirky and fun-filled character makes it suitable for visitors of all ages, encouraging exploration and social interaction. The combination of scientific principles and entertaining illusions creates a memorable experience that stimulates both the mind and the senses. Its location in Keswick, a hub for outdoor and cultural tourism, adds to the appeal as a distinctive indoor attraction.Complementary Attractions and Local Context
Keswick’s rich cultural landscape and scenic surroundings provide a perfect backdrop for The Puzzling Place. Visitors can combine their visit with nearby museums, galleries, and outdoor activities in the Lake District. The attraction’s gift shop and puzzle area offer additional engagement, extending the visit beyond the main exhibition. This blend of education, entertainment, and retail highlights The Puzzling Place as a unique and valuable addition to Keswick’s visitor offerings.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Rydal Cave
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Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens
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The Cockpit Stone Circle
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The Bridge House
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Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.
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Ambleside Roman Fort
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Experience the rich history at Ambleside Roman Fort, a key archaeological site in the heart of the Lake District, offering stunning views and engaging exhibits.
Greystoke Pillar
23.5 km
An enduring 18th-century stone obelisk near Penrith, marking local heritage amidst Cumbria’s tranquil countryside.
Eskdale Mill
24.0 km
Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.
National Trust - Tarn Hows
24.6 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tarn Hows, a nature reserve in the Lake District with stunning landscapes and tranquil walking trails.
National Trust - Wray
25.0 km
Explore Wray Castle, a Victorian gem on Lake Windermere offering stunning views, rich history, and beautiful gardens in the heart of the Lake District.
National Trust - Townend
25.5 km
Explore the picturesque Townend, a historic farmhouse and garden in the Lake District, where heritage and nature meet in a beautiful setting.
Penrith Castle
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Lowther Castle & Gardens
25.6 km
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Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
25.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.
Brockhole on Windermere
25.7 km
Explore Brockhole on Windermere, a vibrant visitor centre in the heart of the Lake District offering outdoor adventures, art, and stunning gardens.
Unmissable attractions to see
Keswick Alhambra Cinema
0.3 km
A charming century-old cinema blending vintage charm with modern projection, nestled in Keswick’s vibrant town centre.
Keswick War Memorial
0.3 km
Explore the Keswick War Memorial, a serene tribute to bravery set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Lake District.
Keswick Methodist Church
0.3 km
A welcoming Methodist church in Keswick offering spiritual sanctuary and community connection in the heart of the Lake District.
Derwent Pencil Museum
0.3 km
Explore the world’s pencil heritage through immersive exhibits, rare artifacts, and creative workshops at Keswick’s iconic Derwent Pencil Museum.
Hope Park
0.4 km
A beautifully maintained, accessible park in Keswick offering vibrant gardens, recreational golf, bird watching, and a welcoming café near Derwentwater.
Keswick Museum
0.5 km
Discover Keswick’s rich heritage through unique exhibits, interactive displays, and a charming Victorian setting in the heart of the Lake District.
Crosthwaite Church, Keswick
1.0 km
Historic Crosthwaite Church, Keswick—where 1,500 years of faith, art, and nature converge in tranquil Lake District beauty.
Friars Crag
1.3 km
A short stroll from Keswick leads to one of the Lake District’s most iconic viewpoints, where Derwentwater unfolds beneath dramatic fells and literary history lingers by the shore.
Castlerigg Stone Circle
2.6 km
Explore the ancient mysteries of Castlerigg Stone Circle, a historic landmark in the stunning Lake District with breathtaking views and rich heritage.
Derwentwater
2.8 km
Explore Derwentwater’s breathtaking lake, dramatic fells, and charming Keswick shores in England’s iconic Lake District.
Brandlehow Park
3.2 km
A peaceful National Trust park on Derwentwater’s quiet western shore, perfect for lakeside strolls, picnics, and views of Catbells and the Borrowdale fells.
Ashness Bridge
3.8 km
Historic stone packhorse bridge with iconic Lake District views over Derwentwater, nestled in Keswick’s scenic hiking landscape.
Catbells
4.2 km
Experience the breathtaking views and accessible trails of Cat Bells, a beloved Lake District fell near Keswick with iconic panoramas over Derwentwater.
Surprise View
4.5 km
Breathtaking panoramic views over Derwent Water and Skiddaw from a peaceful, accessible Lake District vantage point.
Newlands Valley
4.8 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and iconic hiking trails of Newlands Valley, a serene escape nestled in the heart of the Lake District near Keswick.
Essential places to dine
The Cottage In The Wood
5.4 km
Michelin-starred fine dining nestled in Whinlatter Forest with cozy rooms and stunning views of the Lake District’s Skiddaw mountains.
Herdwick Willy’s Bar & Bistro
10.9 km
A relaxed bistro-bar nestled in Bassenthwaite’s scenic Croft Holiday Park, serving fresh pizzas and light fare with countryside views.
The Inn on the Lake
13.8 km
Elegant lakeside retreat blending Victorian charm with modern comfort on Ullswater’s scenic shores in the Lake District.
Cockermouth Brewers Fayre
16.0 km
A welcoming family-friendly pub and restaurant in Cockermouth offering classic British dishes, hearty breakfasts, and a spacious beer garden with countryside views.
New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale
17.3 km
Rustic hotel and lively bar nestled in Langdale Valley, perfect for walkers seeking comfort and community in the Lake District.
The Jumble Room
17.5 km
Vibrant bohemian restaurant in Grasmere serving creative international dishes with local Cumbrian produce in a lively, eclectic setting.
Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale
17.5 km
A welcoming climbers’ inn with traditional charm, hearty fare, and stunning mountain views in the heart of Great Langdale.
Rampsbeck Restaurant
18.6 km
Contemporary British dining with lake views, seasonal Cumbrian produce, and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere in Watermillock.
Stove Restaurant & Bar
19.4 km
Relaxed dining with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes in the heart of the Lake District’s Great Langdale.
Horse and Farrier
19.6 km
Lake District gastropub serving exceptional seasonal cuisine in a charming village setting near Ullswater.
1863 Restaurant with Rooms
20.8 km
Elegant boutique lodging and Michelin-level modern British dining in the heart of Pooley Bridge, overlooking Ullswater’s serene beauty.
The Wild Duck Inn
20.8 km
Experience the charm of The Wild Duck Inn: where American flavors meet local hospitality in Branthwaite.
The Clickham Inn
21.4 km
A stylish Mediterranean tapas inn near Penrith offering authentic flavors, warm hospitality, and a dog-friendly atmosphere on the edge of the Lake District.
Dodds Restaurant
21.9 km
Authentic Italian and modern European cuisine served with warmth in the heart of Ambleside’s scenic Lake District.
The Conservatory Restaurant at The Melbreak Hotel
22.1 km
Refined Modern European dining with seasonal events in a welcoming setting at The Melbreak Hotel near Workington.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd
0.2 km
Step into a storybook world at Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd, Keswick’s enchanting toy shop and café inspired by Beatrix Potter’s beloved characters.
Booths, Keswick
0.2 km
A premium supermarket and café in Keswick, offering local Lake District produce, fresh counters, and community-focused shopping.
Alternative
0.2 km
Discover original gifts and Lake District treasures at Alternative, Keswick’s beloved family-run gift and interiors shop.
Love the Lakes Keswick
0.2 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in the heart of Keswick’s charming market town.
CONQUER Trading Post
0.3 km
Discover authentic Lake District spirit through unique patches, crafts, and gifts at Keswick’s vibrant Conquer Trading Post.
The Barn
20.7 km
Discover locally sourced gifts, quality outdoor gear, and delightful treats at The Barn in scenic Pooley Bridge.
RockShop
22.0 km
Discover unique gifts and delightful toys at RockShop in Ambleside, a must-visit for family-friendly shopping and local crafts.
The Unicorn
25.8 km
Discover unique gifts and artistic treasures in Penrith’s beloved independent shop, The Unicorn, open Monday to Saturday.
Dunmail Park Shopping Centre
27.3 km
Discover the vibrant Dunmail Park Shopping Centre in Workington, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together in harmony.
Suziebou
28.5 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish fashion, and locally sourced homewares in the welcoming boutique of Suziebou in Dalston, Carlisle.
Booths, Windermere
28.9 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Forget Me Not
29.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
Little Whims
29.8 km
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The Original Man Shop
29.8 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Pretty Things
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Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
13.7 km
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Castle Bar
15.9 km
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Ritson's Bar (Wasdale Head Inn)
16.7 km
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Wainwrights' Inn
19.1 km
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The Pooley Bridge Inn, Pooley Bridge
20.6 km
Traditional Lakeland inn with cozy rooms, hearty pub fare, and lakeside charm in the heart of Pooley Bridge village.
The Talbot Bar
21.5 km
Cozy Lakeland pub with hearty traditional fare, local ales, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere near Ambleside.
Golden Rule
21.9 km
A historic Ambleside pub offering traditional ales, cozy fires, and a welcoming atmosphere away from the tourist bustle.
The Vault
22.1 km
Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.
The Lily Bar
22.2 km
Ambleside’s independent bar blending rustic charm, local ales, live music, and quality dining in the heart of the Lake District.
Queens Head, Troutbeck
24.7 km
Historic Lake District pub and inn offering hearty fare, local ales, and cosy rooms with stunning Troutbeck Valley views.
Board & Elbow
25.8 km
A lively, family-friendly pub in Penrith serving traditional British classics, local ales, and offering a warm atmosphere with a charming beer garden.
Penrith Conservative Club
25.9 km
A welcoming social venue in Penrith offering lively events, a classic bar, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria.
The Dog Beck
25.9 km
Historic charm meets modern hospitality at The Dog Beck, Penrith’s welcoming Wetherspoon pub open from early morning until late night.
The Warehouse
25.9 km
A lively multi-bar nightclub in Penrith offering vibrant weekend nightlife with music, dancing, and a welcoming social scene.
Lake District Cocktail Co.
26.7 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting in the stunning Lake District with Lake District Cocktail Co., a mobile catering service that brings the bar to you.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The loose moose
25.8 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
Windermere Social Club
29.3 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wheelhouse Nightclub
30.0 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
Secret Carlisle
34.9 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Club Britannia
35.1 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
35.2 km
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Black Box Music Institute
35.2 km
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secret bridge
39.8 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
The Lounge C9
54.4 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
54.5 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
54.5 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
The Five Arches
59.0 km
Experience the charm of The Five Arches pub in Dumfries - a cozy spot for local brews and delightful fare.
Railway Social Club
59.9 km
A friendly, community-focused social club in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, lively events, and a welcoming atmosphere near the town centre.
Dickies Bar
60.0 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Dickies Bar in Dumfries, the perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
Coach & Horses Inn
60.1 km
Discover the charm of Dumfries at Coach & Horses Inn, where traditional pub culture meets modern hospitality.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Fun-filled
- Quirky
- Lively
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Colorful Aesthetics
- Retro Vibes
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Pet Friendly
