Brandelhow Bay offers a walk through gentle beauty and great historical importance. As the first piece of land in the Lake District bought by the National Trust for public enjoyment, it paved the way for the protection of the landscapes we love today. This easy, family-friendly walk takes you through charming woodland to pebbly beaches, with stunning views across Derwentwater to Catbells and Skiddaw.
The Walk at a Glance
1.5 - 2 Hours
Return Trip
2.5 Miles / 4 km
From Hawse End
Easy
Mostly flat paths
Great for Families
Perfect for paddling
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Starting Point: Hawse End
You can start this walk from two main points. Either find one of the limited free roadside parking spots near Hawse End (Grid Ref: NY 248 201), or for a more scenic approach, take the Keswick Launch from Keswick to the High Brandelhow jetty.
2. The Lakeshore Path
From Hawse End, take the clear, well-trodden path that heads south, keeping the beautiful expanse of Derwentwater on your left. The path weaves through the mature woodlands of Brandelhow Park.
3. Arriving at Brandelhow Bay
After a delightful walk of just over a mile, you will arrive at the open shoreline of Brandelhow Bay. This is the perfect spot to stop, with its wide pebbly beaches offering fantastic views and plenty of space for a picnic.
4. The 'Entrust' Sculpture
Look out for the 'Entrust' sculpture on the shoreline – a pair of cupped hands carved from a boulder of Skiddaw slate, commemorating the centenary of the National Trust's acquisition of Brandelhow.
5. The Return Journey
Once you have enjoyed the bay, simply retrace your steps along the same lovely path back to Hawse End or the High Brandelhow jetty to catch your return boat to Keswick.
Visitor Information & Tips
- Beatrix Potter's Inspiration: Brandelhow Park was a favourite haunt of Beatrix Potter and is the setting for "The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin". You can easily imagine her characters paddling to St. Herbert's Island (Owl Island) from the bay.
- Parking: Parking at Hawse End is very limited. Arriving early is essential. Using the Keswick Launch is a fantastic, stress-free alternative that adds to the adventure.
- Terrain: While mostly flat, the path has some rocky and root-covered sections, making it unsuitable for most pushchairs. A baby or child carrier is a better option.
- Facilities: There are no toilets or cafes at Brandelhow Bay. The nearest facilities are in Keswick.
More to Explore Nearby
Catbells
For a more challenging walk, Hawse End is the starting point for the hugely popular ascent of Catbells. This small fell offers a thrilling ridge walk and some of the best views in the Lakes.
Lingholm Kitchen and Walled Garden
A short walk from Brandelhow, The Lingholm Estate features a wonderful cafe and a beautiful walled garden that was the inspiration for Mr. McGregor's garden in "The Tale of Peter Rabbit".
Derwentwater Marina
Located near Portinscale, you can hire canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, or sailing dinghies to explore the lake and its islands from the water.