Newlands Valley: A Scenic Gem in the Lake District
Discover the tranquil beauty and iconic hiking trails of Newlands Valley, a serene escape nestled in the heart of the Lake District near Keswick.
Nestled in Cumbria near Keswick, Newlands Valley is a breathtaking landscape renowned for its dramatic fells, serene lakes, and iconic hiking routes such as the Newlands Horseshoe. This tranquil valley offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature, with scenic drives, walking trails, and stunning panoramic views that capture the essence of the Lake District’s rugged beauty.
A brief summary to Newlands Valley
- Cumbria, Newlands Valley, Keswick, GB
- Duration: 1.5 to 6 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear sturdy hiking boots to comfortably explore the varied terrain of the Newlands Horseshoe and other trails.
- Visit in spring or early autumn for the most vibrant natural colors and pleasant weather conditions.
- Bring a camera or binoculars to capture panoramic views and spot local wildlife.
- Plan your visit to coincide with quieter weekday mornings to enjoy the valley’s peaceful atmosphere.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Take the Stagecoach bus service from Keswick town center to Newlands Valley, with an approximate journey time of 20 to 30 minutes. Services run several times daily but check schedules seasonally, as frequency may reduce in winter. A single fare costs around £3 to £5.
-
Car
Driving from Keswick to Newlands Valley takes about 10 to 15 minutes via local roads. Parking is limited near popular trailheads, so arrive early during peak seasons. There is no parking fee, but spaces can fill quickly on weekends.
-
Walking
For the adventurous, a longer hike from Keswick town center to Newlands Valley spans roughly 8 to 10 kilometers, taking 2.5 to 3.5 hours over varied terrain. The route includes some steep sections and is suitable for experienced walkers with good fitness.
Newlands Valley location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
-
Cold Weather
Discover more about Newlands Valley
A Picturesque Landscape of Natural Splendor
Newlands Valley sits quietly in the heart of the Lake District, just a few miles from Keswick. It is celebrated for its sweeping vistas of rugged fells and lush greenery, framed by craggy peaks that rise steeply from the valley floor. The valley’s tranquil atmosphere is punctuated by the gentle flow of streams and the occasional grazing of sheep, embodying the pastoral charm of Cumbria.Iconic Hiking and Outdoor Adventures
The valley is famously associated with the Newlands Horseshoe, a classic circular hiking route that attracts walkers seeking both challenge and reward. This trail loops around several prominent fells, offering panoramic views across the surrounding lakes and mountains. Beyond hiking, the valley’s terrain invites activities such as climbing, ghyll scrambling, and nature photography, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.Rich Cultural and Historical Context
Newlands Valley has a heritage steeped in rural farming traditions and local folklore, which can be glimpsed in the scattered farmsteads and historic stone walls that dot the landscape. The area’s quiet beauty has inspired artists and writers over centuries, contributing to the cultural tapestry of the Lake District. Nearby Keswick serves as a hub for exploring this heritage with its museums and galleries.Seasonal Changes and Wildlife Encounters
The valley’s character shifts with the seasons, from vibrant wildflower displays in spring to the rich golds and reds of autumn foliage. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot native birds, including peregrine falcons and redstarts, while the valley’s meadows support a variety of small mammals and insects. The peaceful environment encourages mindful observation of nature’s rhythms.Visitor Experience and Amenities
While Newlands Valley remains largely unspoiled, visitors can find amenities in nearby Keswick, including dining, accommodation, and visitor centers. The valley itself offers picnic spots and seating areas where one can rest and absorb the serene surroundings. Its accessibility makes it suitable for day trips or longer excursions into the Lake District’s wilderness.Preservation and Sustainable Tourism
Efforts to maintain the valley’s pristine condition are evident in the promotion of low-impact tourism and respect for local ecosystems. Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave-No-Trace principles to protect the fragile environment. The valley’s status as part of a protected national park underscores its importance as a natural heritage site.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Eskdale Mill
19.6 km
Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.
The Bridge House
20.9 km
Explore the historic Bridge House in Ambleside, a stunning 17th-century riverside gem in the heart of the Lake District's breathtaking landscapes.
Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
21.2 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.
Ambleside Roman Fort
21.5 km
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.
National Trust - Tarn Hows
22.3 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
23.6 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 - Steam Yacht Gondola
24.1 km
Experience the beauty of the Lake District aboard the historic Steam Yacht Gondola, a scenic cruise that blends history and nature.
Brockhole on Windermere
24.5 km
Explore Brockhole on Windermere, a vibrant visitor centre in the heart of the Lake District offering outdoor adventures, art, and stunning gardens.
Latterbarrow
24.7 km
Explore Latterbarrow: Experience breathtaking views and refreshing hikes in the heart of the Lake District, perfect for nature lovers.
National Trust - Townend
24.7 km
Explore the picturesque Townend, a historic farmhouse and garden in the Lake District, where heritage and nature meet in a beautiful setting.
The Cockpit Stone Circle
25.0 km
Explore The Cockpit Stone Circle, an ancient historical site near Penrith, where history and natural beauty converge in a tranquil setting.
Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens
25.3 km
Explore the enchanting Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens, a perfect blend of history, art, and stunning landscapes in the heart of Penrith.
Milefortlet 21
26.0 km
Discover the ancient Roman heritage at Milefortlet 21, a captivating archaeological site near Maryport, rich in history and scenic beauty.
Holehird Gardens
26.1 km
Explore the enchanting Holehird Gardens in the Lake District, a floral paradise offering stunning views and diverse plant collections for all nature lovers.
Duke Pit Fan House
26.3 km
Explore the Duke Pit Fan House, a historical landmark in Whitehaven, revealing the rich industrial heritage of Cumbria's coal mining era.
Unmissable attractions to see
Catbells
1.1 km
Experience the breathtaking views and accessible trails of Cat Bells, a beloved Lake District fell near Keswick with iconic panoramas over Derwentwater.
Goldscope Mine
1.5 km
Explore the historic copper and lead mining legacy nestled in the scenic Lake District’s Newlands Valley.
Brandlehow Park
1.9 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.
Derwentwater
2.8 km
Explore Derwentwater’s breathtaking lake, dramatic fells, and charming Keswick shores in England’s iconic Lake District.
Lodore Falls
3.4 km
Experience the breathtaking cascade of Lodore Falls nestled in the heart of the Lake District’s Borrowdale Valley.
Surprise View
3.6 km
Breathtaking panoramic views over Derwent Water and Skiddaw from a peaceful, accessible Lake District vantage point.
Ashness Bridge
3.7 km
Historic stone packhorse bridge with iconic Lake District views over Derwentwater, nestled in Keswick’s scenic hiking landscape.
Force Crag Mine
3.8 km
Explore the Lake District's last working metal mine, where industrial heritage meets stunning Coledale Valley scenery.
Friars Crag
3.8 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.
Bowder Stone
4.1 km
A towering 2,000-ton glacial boulder steeped in Norse legend and Lake District history, inviting climbers and nature lovers alike.
Hope Park
4.5 km
A beautifully maintained, accessible park in Keswick offering vibrant gardens, recreational golf, bird watching, and a welcoming café near Derwentwater.
Moss Force Waterfall
4.7 km
Discover the breathtaking 100-meter cascades of Moss Force, a serene yet powerful waterfall nestled in the heart of England’s Lake District.
Puzzling Place
4.8 km
Discover mind-bending optical illusions and interactive exhibits in Keswick’s captivating Puzzling Place.
Keswick Alhambra Cinema
4.8 km
A charming century-old cinema blending vintage charm with modern projection, nestled in Keswick’s vibrant town centre.
Derwent Pencil Museum
4.9 km
Explore the world’s pencil heritage through immersive exhibits, rare artifacts, and creative workshops at Keswick’s iconic Derwent Pencil Museum.
Essential places to dine
The Cottage In The Wood
5.0 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
12.8 km
A relaxed bistro-bar nestled in Bassenthwaite’s scenic Croft Holiday Park, serving fresh pizzas and light fare with countryside views.
Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale
14.7 km
A welcoming climbers’ inn with traditional charm, hearty fare, and stunning mountain views in the heart of Great Langdale.
New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale
14.8 km
Rustic hotel and lively bar nestled in Langdale Valley, perfect for walkers seeking comfort and community in the Lake District.
Cockermouth Brewers Fayre
15.0 km
A welcoming family-friendly pub and restaurant in Cockermouth offering classic British dishes, hearty breakfasts, and a spacious beer garden with countryside views.
The Inn on the Lake
15.6 km
Elegant lakeside retreat blending Victorian charm with modern comfort on Ullswater’s scenic shores in the Lake District.
The Jumble Room
16.1 km
Vibrant bohemian restaurant in Grasmere serving creative international dishes with local Cumbrian produce in a lively, eclectic setting.
Stove Restaurant & Bar
17.5 km
Relaxed dining with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes in the heart of the Lake District’s Great Langdale.
The Wild Duck Inn
18.3 km
Experience the charm of The Wild Duck Inn: where American flavors meet local hospitality in Branthwaite.
The Conservatory Restaurant at The Melbreak Hotel
20.3 km
Refined Modern European dining with seasonal events in a welcoming setting at The Melbreak Hotel near Workington.
Dodds Restaurant
20.9 km
Authentic Italian and modern European cuisine served with warmth in the heart of Ambleside’s scenic Lake District.
The Priest Hole Restaurant
21.1 km
Historic charm meets hearty British cuisine in the heart of Ambleside, with locally sourced dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
Lucy's on a plate
21.1 km
A vibrant English bistro in Ambleside blending local flavors with eclectic style and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Old Stamp House Restaurant
21.1 km
Experience a Michelin-starred culinary journey through Cumbria’s rich heritage in the historic heart of Ambleside.
Lake Road Kitchen
21.2 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside blending Nordic flair with Lake District’s finest local produce.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CONQUER Trading Post
4.7 km
Discover authentic Lake District spirit through unique patches, crafts, and gifts at Keswick’s vibrant Conquer Trading Post.
Booths, Keswick
4.8 km
A premium supermarket and café in Keswick, offering local Lake District produce, fresh counters, and community-focused shopping.
Love the Lakes Keswick
4.8 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in the heart of Keswick’s charming market town.
Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd
4.8 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.
Alternative
4.9 km
Discover original gifts and Lake District treasures at Alternative, Keswick’s beloved family-run gift and interiors shop.
RockShop
21.0 km
Discover unique gifts and delightful toys at RockShop in Ambleside, a must-visit for family-friendly shopping and local crafts.
The Barn
24.3 km
Discover locally sourced gifts, quality outdoor gear, and delightful treats at The Barn in scenic Pooley Bridge.
Dunmail Park Shopping Centre
25.5 km
Discover the vibrant Dunmail Park Shopping Centre in Workington, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together in harmony.
Little Whims
26.1 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Little Whims, a cozy and creative gift shop in Whitehaven’s historic Market Place.
Booths, Windermere
27.9 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Forget Me Not
28.0 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
The Original Man Shop
28.5 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Pretty Things
28.5 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Tesco Express
28.5 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Herdy Bowness
28.5 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ritson's Bar (Wasdale Head Inn)
12.1 km
Historic mountain pub at the foot of England’s highest peak, offering real ales, hearty food, and stunning Lake District views.
Castle Bar
15.4 km
Historic 16th-century pub in Cockermouth with award-winning design, local ales, sunny beer garden, and vibrant sports bar atmosphere.
Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
15.6 km
A charming lakeside pub and restaurant in Glenridding with scenic views, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Wainwrights' Inn
17.2 km
A traditional Lakeland pub in Chapel Stile offering hearty local fare, fine ales, and a warm welcome near the Langdale Estate.
The Talbot Bar
19.8 km
Cozy Lakeland pub with hearty traditional fare, local ales, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere near Ambleside.
Golden Rule
20.9 km
A historic Ambleside pub offering traditional ales, cozy fires, and a welcoming atmosphere away from the tourist bustle.
The Vault
21.1 km
Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.
The Lily Bar
21.2 km
Ambleside’s independent bar blending rustic charm, local ales, live music, and quality dining in the heart of the Lake District.
The Oddfellows Arms Caldbeck
21.8 km
Discover the culinary delights of The Oddfellows Arms in Caldbeck, where traditional pub fare meets innovative gastropub cuisine in a charming setting.
The Pooley Bridge Inn, Pooley Bridge
24.2 km
Traditional Lakeland inn with cozy rooms, hearty pub fare, and lakeside charm in the heart of Pooley Bridge village.
Queens Head, Troutbeck
24.2 km
Historic Lake District pub and inn offering hearty fare, local ales, and cosy rooms with stunning Troutbeck Valley views.
Lake District Cocktail Co.
25.4 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.
The Windermere Speakeasy
27.8 km
A cozy, versatile cocktail bar and eatery in Windermere offering creative drinks, sharing platters, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
27.8 km
A lively craft beer bar in Windermere with quirky decor, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
27.8 km
A vibrant, quirky bar and tapas spot in Windermere, famed for its eclectic décor, craft drinks, and lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Windermere Social Club
28.1 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wheelhouse Nightclub
28.5 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
The loose moose
29.9 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
Secret Carlisle
39.4 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Club Britannia
39.6 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
39.8 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Black Box Music Institute
39.8 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
secret bridge
43.7 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
The Lounge C9
50.6 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
50.6 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
50.6 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
60.9 km
Experience the charm of The Five Arches pub in Dumfries - a cozy spot for local brews and delightful fare.
Railway Social Club
61.7 km
A friendly, community-focused social club in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, lively events, and a welcoming atmosphere near the town centre.
Dickies Bar
61.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Dickies Bar in Dumfries, the perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
Coach & Horses Inn
61.8 km
Discover the charm of Dumfries at Coach & Horses Inn, where traditional pub culture meets modern hospitality.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
- Pet Friendly
