Portinscale lies right on the shore of Derwentwater. The routes through the valley, along the lake and into the surrounding mountains are key factors in the range of activities available during a stay. Walking options range from easy circular routes through the village and longer walks along Derwent Water to more challenging hikes in the mountains. You can decide whether you would prefer to explore the village, choose a longer route by the lake or plan a mountain hike.

Routes between Portinscale and Keswick

Howrah’s Path connects Keswick with Portinscale through the open, flat valley of the River Derwent. There are bus stops at both ends, so you can plan the walk as a one-way route. This gives you a practical way to walk between the two towns while also passing through the open valley.

Keswick is about one mile, or a 20-minute walk, from Portinscale via quiet roads and paths. This approximate distance and time provide a practical guide to the walk, complementing the description of Howrah’s Path. When planning, you can take into account both the character of the valley route and the approximate walking time to Keswick.

By the lakeshore and on the water

The “Derwent Water Lakeshore” route starts at the village crossroads in Portinscale. It is mostly flat and follows paved paths. However, some sections can be rough and wet after rain, so take this into account when planning the lakeshore route. Unlike the open valley route, this walk focuses on the lakeside. The route description gives you another way to choose a walk based on its scenery and character.

You can also include an activity on the water in your plans: a short walk from Portinscale leads to the Hawes End landing stage, where you can catch the Keswick Launch. Nichol End Marine is also located on the western shore of Derwentwater in the Lake District, where kayaks are available to hire. Hawes End is therefore a destination for a short walk with a connection to the Launch; Nichol End Marine offers kayak hire. Together with the walking routes, these provide different ways to enjoy a stay on Derwentwater.

If you are considering Portinscale as a place to stay, you can choose routes based on what you have in mind: circular walks in the village, longer routes by the lake, the valley route to Keswick or more challenging hikes in the mountains. Its location right on Derwentwater and the different route profiles give you practical points to consider when choosing your destination.

Discover more destinations: Orton, Seascale, Scotby, Bewcastle, Cleator, How, Westward, Haverthwaite.

For the regional travel overview: Cumbria.