Surprise View: A Breathtaking Overlook in Borrowdale
Explore the breathtaking panoramic views of Surprise View in the Lake District, an ultimate destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, Surprise View offers tourists a stunning panoramic vista of Derwentwater and the surrounding peaks. This picturesque spot is perfect for nature lovers and hikers alike, providing an ideal backdrop for photography, picnics, and peaceful contemplation. An essential stop for anyone exploring the beauty of Borrowdale, it promises an unforgettable experience of the UK's natural wonders.
A brief summary to Surprise View
- Keswick, Borrowdale, GB
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during sunrise or sunset for the most stunning lighting and picturesque views.
- Bring a camera; the vistas are perfect for photography, especially with the changing weather.
- Dress in layers, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day.
- Consider exploring nearby hiking trails for a more immersive experience of the Lake District.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy at the viewpoint, taking in the sights while savoring local delicacies.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from Keswick town center. Head south on the A591 towards Grasmere. After about 4 miles, turn onto the A5271 towards Borrowdale. Follow the A5271 for approximately 5 miles, until you reach the village of Grange. From Grange, continue on the road for another mile until you see the signage for Surprise View on your left. There is a car park available at the viewpoint, but it can fill up quickly during peak times. Parking may incur a small fee, so be prepared for that.
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Public Transport
For those using public transportation, take a bus from Keswick to Borrowdale. The 'Borrowdale Rambler' service operates regularly during the tourist season. Board the bus at the bus station in Keswick and ask the driver to drop you off at the Surprise View stop. The journey will take about 25 minutes, and you should check the local timetable for exact bus times. Note that you may need to pay a fare, so keep some cash handy.
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Walking
If you are already in the vicinity of Borrowdale and prefer to walk, you can follow the footpaths from nearby locations such as Grange or Seatoller. From Grange, take the footpath that leads along the River Derwent. The walk to Surprise View is roughly 1.5 miles and offers beautiful scenery along the way. Just be sure to wear appropriate footwear for the terrain.
Discover more about Surprise View
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.
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Ambleside Roman Fort
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National Trust - Wordsworth House and Garden
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Eskdale Mill
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National Trust - Tarn Hows
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National Trust - Wray
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Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
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The Cockpit Stone Circle
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Brockhole on Windermere
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National Trust - Townend
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Latterbarrow
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Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens
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National Trust - Steam Yacht Gondola
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Holehird Gardens
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Unmissable attractions to see
Lodore Falls
0.5 km
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Ashness Bridge
0.7 km
Historic stone packhorse bridge with iconic Lake District views over Derwentwater, nestled in Keswick’s scenic hiking landscape.
Derwentwater
2.0 km
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Brandlehow Park
2.3 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.
Catbells
2.5 km
Experience the breathtaking views and accessible trails of Cat Bells, a beloved Lake District fell near Keswick with iconic panoramas over Derwentwater.
Bowder Stone
2.9 km
A towering 2,000-ton glacial boulder steeped in Norse legend and Lake District history, inviting climbers and nature lovers alike.
Friars Crag
3.3 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.
Newlands Valley
3.6 km
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Goldscope Mine
3.9 km
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Hope Park
4.1 km
A beautifully maintained, accessible park in Keswick offering vibrant gardens, recreational golf, bird watching, and a welcoming café near Derwentwater.
Keswick Alhambra Cinema
4.3 km
A charming century-old cinema blending vintage charm with modern projection, nestled in Keswick’s vibrant town centre.
Keswick Methodist Church
4.4 km
A welcoming Methodist church in Keswick offering spiritual sanctuary and community connection in the heart of the Lake District.
Keswick War Memorial
4.5 km
Explore the Keswick War Memorial, a serene tribute to bravery set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Lake District.
Puzzling Place
4.5 km
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Keswick Museum
4.7 km
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Essential places to dine
The Cottage In The Wood
7.8 km
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The Inn on the Lake
12.0 km
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New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale
12.8 km
Rustic hotel and lively bar nestled in Langdale Valley, perfect for walkers seeking comfort and community in the Lake District.
Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale
13.0 km
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The Jumble Room
13.3 km
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Herdwick Willy’s Bar & Bistro
14.9 km
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Stove Restaurant & Bar
15.1 km
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Dodds Restaurant
18.0 km
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The Priest Hole Restaurant
18.2 km
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Lucy's on a plate
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The Old Stamp House Restaurant
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Lake Road Kitchen
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Cockermouth Brewers Fayre
18.4 km
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Rampsbeck Restaurant
18.8 km
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Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery
19.5 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CONQUER Trading Post
4.3 km
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Love the Lakes Keswick
4.4 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in the heart of Keswick’s charming market town.
Alternative
4.4 km
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Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd
4.4 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
4.6 km
A premium supermarket and café in Keswick, offering local Lake District produce, fresh counters, and community-focused shopping.
RockShop
18.1 km
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The Barn
21.1 km
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Booths, Windermere
25.0 km
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Forget Me Not
25.1 km
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The Original Man Shop
25.7 km
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Pretty Things
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Herdy Bowness
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World of Beatrix Potter Attraction Shop
25.8 km
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Tesco Express
25.8 km
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Mountain Warehouse
25.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
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Ritson's Bar (Wasdale Head Inn)
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Wainwrights' Inn
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The Talbot Bar
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Golden Rule
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The Vault
18.2 km
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The Lily Bar
18.3 km
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Castle Bar
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The Pooley Bridge Inn, Pooley Bridge
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Queens Head, Troutbeck
21.0 km
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The Oddfellows Arms Caldbeck
21.5 km
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Lake District Cocktail Co.
22.6 km
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The Windermere Speakeasy
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Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
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The Crafty Baa Windermere
25.0 km
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Windermere Social Club
25.3 km
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Wheelhouse Nightclub
25.9 km
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The loose moose
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Secret Carlisle
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Club Britannia
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Carlisle R A O B Club
39.3 km
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Black Box Music Institute
39.3 km
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secret bridge
40.6 km
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The Lounge C9
50.0 km
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Manhattans Nightclub
50.1 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
50.1 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
The Moorcock Inn
59.0 km
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The Five Arches
63.2 km
Experience the charm of The Five Arches pub in Dumfries - a cozy spot for local brews and delightful fare.
Railway Social Club
64.0 km
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Dickies Bar
64.1 km
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