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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Lake District National Park
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Bassenthwaite Lake National Nature Reserve
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Scale Force Waterfall
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National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
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Aira Force Waterfall
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National Trust - Aira Force and Ullswater
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Dubwath Silver Meadows Nature Reserve
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Wordsworth Grasmere
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Blea Tarn, Lake District National Park
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Lake District Wildlife Park
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Rydal Cave
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Rydal Mount and Gardens
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Wild Ennerdale
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The Bridge House
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Unmissable attractions to see
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Ashness Bridge
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Derwentwater
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Brandlehow Park
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Catbells
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National Trust - Bowder Stone
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Friars Crag
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Derwent Isle
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Newlands Valley
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Derwent Water Jetties
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Derwent Water Lake
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Theatre By The Lake
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Crow Park
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Goldscope Mine
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Hope Park
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Essential places to dine
The Cottage In The Wood
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The Inn on the Lake
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New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale
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Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale
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The Jumble Room
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Herdwick Willy’s Bar & Bistro
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Stove Restaurant & Bar
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Dodds Restaurant
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The Priest Hole Restaurant
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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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Rampsbeck Restaurant
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Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery
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The Samling Hotel
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CONQUER Trading Post
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Love the Lakes Keswick
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Alternative
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Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd
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Booths, Keswick
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The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop
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RockShop
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The Barn
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Booths, Windermere
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Forget Me Not
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The Original Man Shop
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Pretty Things
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Herdy Bowness
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Tesco Express
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Wainwrights' Inn
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The Vault
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The Lily Bar
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Cockermouth Brewers Fayre
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Castle Bar
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The Pooley Bridge Inn, Pooley Bridge
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Queens Head, Troutbeck
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The Oddfellows Arms Caldbeck
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Lake District Cocktail Co.
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The Windermere Speakeasy
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The Crafty Baa Windermere
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