Alternative Travel Guide

Free Guide: Discover original gifts and Lake District treasures at Alternative, Keswick’s beloved family-run gift and interiors shop.

A brief summary of Alternative

Discover original gifts and Lake District treasures at Alternative, Keswick’s beloved family-run gift and interiors shop.

Alternative is a distinctive gift shop located at 5 Station Street, Keswick, offering an eclectic mix of original gifts, home furnishings, and Lake District souvenirs. Established in 1985, this family-run store is renowned for its carefully curated selection that caters to all tastes and budgets, making it a perfect stop for finding meaningful presents or keepsakes from the region.

0.5–2 hrsTime to spend
$$Mid-range
IndoorSetting
4 / 5Mobile signal

On-site amenities

  • Restrooms
  • Seating areas
  • Information boards
4.4 Very good · 20 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Every day10 am–5 pm

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
5 Station St, Keswick CA12 5HH
Phone
Website

Getting there

Bus

Take the local bus service from Keswick town center to Station Street, which runs frequently throughout the day. The journey takes approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses are wheelchair accessible, and a single fare costs around £2-£3.

Car

Driving to Alternative Gift Shop is convenient with parking options nearby, including public car parks within a 5-minute walk. Travel times vary depending on traffic but typically range from 10 to 20 minutes from Keswick outskirts. Parking fees apply, usually around £1.50-£3 per hour.

Walking

If you are staying in Keswick town center, walking to 5 Station Street takes about 10-15 minutes on mostly flat terrain, suitable for all fitness levels and wheelchair users.

Discover more about Alternative

A Legacy of Unique Gift Curation

Alternative Gift Shop has been a fixture in Keswick since 1985, proudly operated by a family passionate about quality and originality. With over four decades of experience, the shop has built a reputation for sourcing and offering a wide variety of gifts that go beyond the ordinary. Their collection includes home furnishings, local souvenirs, and clever, unusual items that appeal to diverse tastes and occasions.

Distinctive Product Range and Ambience

The shop’s interior reflects a design-led philosophy, blending aesthetics with functionality. Shoppers can explore an array of collectibles, books, and candles, alongside home décor pieces that embody both charm and utility. This thoughtful curation creates an inviting atmosphere where browsing is both enjoyable and inspiring, encouraging visitors to discover something special for themselves or loved ones.

Connection to the Lake District

Situated in the heart of Keswick, Alternative serves as a gateway to the cultural and natural heritage of the Lake District. Many products celebrate the region’s unique character, offering visitors tangible memories of their visit. This connection enriches the shopping experience, making it more than just a retail stop but a cultural encounter with local craftsmanship and creativity.

Customer Service and Community Roots

As a family-owned business, Alternative places great emphasis on customer care and community engagement. Their knowledgeable and friendly staff provide personalized assistance, helping customers find the perfect gift for any recipient. The shop’s longstanding presence in Keswick underscores its commitment to supporting local artisans and fostering a welcoming environment for both locals and tourists.

Practical Details and Visitor Experience

Open daily from 10 am to 5 pm, Alternative offers convenient hours for visitors exploring Keswick. The shop’s central location on Station Street makes it easily accessible. With a diverse product range and a warm atmosphere, it invites leisurely browsing and thoughtful gift selection, enhancing any visit to this vibrant market town.

Embracing Tradition with a Contemporary Edge

While rooted in tradition, Alternative continually refreshes its inventory to reflect current design trends and customer interests. This balance of classic and contemporary ensures the shop remains a relevant and inspiring destination for gift seekers, blending the best of both worlds in a uniquely Lake District setting.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Best time to go

Quietest: Jan, Feb & Dec · before 8am or from 8pm

How busy it gets, month by month Estimated
  1. Jan: 33% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  2. Feb: 33% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  3. Mar: 44% of the busiest month
  4. Apr: 67% of the busiest month
  5. May: 78% of the busiest month
  6. Jun: 89% of the busiest month
  7. Jul: 100% of the busiest month
  8. Aug: 100% of the busiest month
  9. Sep: 78% of the busiest month
  10. Oct: 56% of the busiest month
  11. Nov: 44% of the busiest month
  12. Dec: 33% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
How busy it gets, hour by hour Estimated
  1. 7am: 14% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  2. 8am: 29% of the busiest hour
  3. 9am: 43% of the busiest hour
  4. 10am: 71% of the busiest hour
  5. 11am: 86% of the busiest hour
  6. 12pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  7. 1pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  8. 2pm: 86% of the busiest hour
  9. 3pm: 86% of the busiest hour
  10. 4pm: 71% of the busiest hour
  11. 5pm: 57% of the busiest hour
  12. 6pm: 43% of the busiest hour
  13. 7pm: 29% of the busiest hour
  14. 8pm: 14% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  15. 9pm: 14% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest

Busy times are Evendo estimates for a typical year, to help you plan. Actual crowds vary with events, school holidays and the weather.

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