A place that has inspired artists and poets for centuries
Perhaps what surprised me more than anything was the quantity of foreign tongues I heard about town. Keswick was more cosmopolitan than I had imagined. It had moved with the times, but retained plenty of its old values. Many well known outlets are present, but Keswick maintains deep roots to traditional past.
as nice as Keswick is however , it’s not the main draw in this part of the planet. That title goes to a place of surprising natural beauty that has electrified artists and poets for centuries, compelling them to return again and again.
Derwent Water lies just outside Keswick town centre in the north of Lake District state Park, England. Its picture postcard looks have charmed audiences for centuries. Hire a ship and view the lake from a different perspective. It’s dotted with enticing small islands yearning to be explored. Boat hire is cheap and great fun for all the family.
The journey approaching Derwent Water incorporates an array of green, sweeping hills parted by deep, lowly valleys. As I travelled northwards from Windermere along the A591, the clouds suddenly broke and bright daylight flooded the valley, chasing away dark shadows settled over the massive ground. The valley appeared tranquil and content.
Rydal Water passed serenely by ; the road ran adjacent to the north shore of the lake. Across the water, families picnicked beside the grassy banks ; parents and children paddled in the cool, shallow waters.
The route advanced towards the mass of Helvellyn and its 950-metre summit. Its giant presence a magnet for hikers and travelers attracted to the Lake District across the year. I remember conquering the summit myself one summer’s day many years ago on a school trip, staying over in Patterdale. I looked in astonishment, in the same way as when visiting as a child.
Lake Thirlmere was reminiscent of some of Canada’s great lakes, if a little smaller. Enveloped by tall trees, brief openings offered a tantalising glance of a delightful stretch of water. As the road snaked alongside the eastern coast, several small boats were visible cruising the open water.
The elevated mountain road broke from the undulating hills and offered a glimpse of Keswick. The whole city sat snug among the gentle knolls, guardians of the town.
For centuries, those hills and mountains have overlooked Derwent Water and its neighbouring city of Keswick, develop from medieval beginnings. Modern touches are evident thru, but Keswick will always keep its traditional roots.
Journey around the world by visiting famouswonders.com and while you’re at it, also check out Imperial War Musem.