Welcome to the Howe Keld Blog
16th January 2016 - A Grand Day Out in Cumbria Fundraising Day for the Cumbria Community Foundation Flood Appeal & Mountain Rescue Teams
The Keswick area will host an array of events including a pantomime, conoeing, cycle rides, guided cycle tours, fell walks and runs. More will be announced closer to the 16th. For the latest updates to the events list in the Keswick area please visit the Grand Day Out in Cumbria website, you can also see what's on in other places throughout Cumbria.
Keswick Open For Business
According to GaugeMap, river levels upwards of 5m were recorded at Greta Bridge river gauge causing flood defences to overtop, this meant a deluge of water consumed large areas of land affecting residential and business properties, transport links and agricultural land.
In the wake of these kinds of events (that have affected Keswick in the past) the community never fails to pull together to get Keswick back on its feet and open for business as quickly as possible. This is a testament to the community spirit here in this beautiful part of the UK.
Keswick Victorian Fayre, Sunday 6th December 2015, 11.15am
Keswick's much loved and highly anticipated annual Christmas Fayre is almost upon us. Come down to the town centre and soak up the festive atmosphere with many magical delights such as Keswick School Jazz band, a Ukulele band, dancers, a prize giving, raffle and other live entertainment. There will also be a range of goods for sales with over 30 charity stalls, crafts, gifts, local produce, fashion, and delicious hot and cold food/drinks.
Children will be delighted with a funfair, activities, and Santa will be making a special entrance on his sleigh with his reindeers at 12 noon and staying till 3.30 in the town square.
A special Chistmas play will be performed by Keswick Street Theatre at 12 noon, 1pm, and 2.30 pm in Keswick Museum and Art Gallery. There will be a church service at St John's church at 6 pm.
If you fancy it, enjoy dressing in Victorian costume to add to the festive spirit. A great day out for all the family and not to be missed! It is in it's 29th year and still going strong!
Free Parking in all Keswick Allerdale Borough owned council car parks.
Tom Price, Antarctic Explorer, Exhibition 12th November - 6th February 2016
The exhibition showcases his stories with personal possessions and his paintings. Geoff Somer, Antarctic Explorer and Local Keswick Resident, will be giving several talks for adults and children during the exhibition. There will also be fun Antarctic themed family activities, including crafts and games, during the Christmas period.
Not one to be missed!
Photo Mount Herschel - Cape Hallet, Antarctica by Jim Trodel (flickr), available under a Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 license
A collection of classic sports cars that were manufactured between the 1920s and 30s will be part of the Lakeland Trials and will assemble at the base of the Honister Pass. This car pilgrimage has become an annual event that draws spectators as well as participants from regions such as Keswick, Buttermere and Whinlatter. The motoring event has been growing in popularity over the years and nothing short of spectacular is expected at this years event.
The motoring event has more-or-less maintained its traditional approach that always leaves spectators awe-stricken. The sight of dozens of elegant and classic sports car that look like they have just left the showrooms gathering at a historical site is a spectacle. It goes to show the love and passion people have for their cars. In fact, most cars at the event will be much older that the spectators and participants.
This years event has introduced a new concept where the classic cars have to scale heights of more than 2,100 feet. The Honister Slate Mine is with-a-doubt the most highly-anticipated stage of the Vintage Sports Car Club that tests the agility and endurance of man and machine. Driving on steep slopes and inclines, sharp and torturous curves, and rocky terrains are what make the event spectacular. Simply put it will be a completion of elegance or as the French would put it "Concours d'Elegance."
Date: Saturday 7 November, 2015
Location: Honister Slate Mine, Honister Pass, Borrowdale, CA12 5XN
Photo VINTAGE AT HONISTER by summonedbyfells (flickr), available under a Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 license
A beautiful setting and an enchanting story to make your Christmas magical, Theatre by the Lake is showing Hans Christian Andersen's classic The Snow Queen. You or your children may recognise this as the inspiration that led to Disney's Frozen. The family friendly showing suitable for all ages tells the charming tale of bravery, risks, and friendship between Gerda and Cei. One day a shard of magical mirror falls into Cei's eye, turning him cold and cruel. A bitter and possessive Snow Queen steals him away. Gerda believes he can be saved and embarks on a journey, full of adventure with the help of her talking reindeer. The Snow Queen is about to blast an eternal winter, can Gerda rescue her friend in time?
If you have yet to discover Theatre by the Lake, then you are in for a treat. It is on the edge of Derwentwater and has views down to the lake, with stunning Cat Bells, Borrowdale and Skiddaw in the backdrop. It has a good quality restaurant and bar offering a two course dinner before a evening show, a spot of lunch or simply locally-baked cake and tea.
If you would like to book tickets or would like more information, please take a look at www.theatrebythelake.com
An exciting new walk has been routed in Borrowdale. Designed by ranger Leila Todhunter this is to be the first of a series of 7 walks exploring the beautiful areas around Keswick.
The walk has been set up as part of 'The Great British Walk', (organised by the National Trust) this is a collection of routes for walkers of all abilities to enjoy, there are walks available throughout the Country with a wonderful selection of them being right here in the Lake District.
The Great Wood Walk in Borrowdale is a circular route covering a distance of 1.75 miles. Starting from the National Trust car park at Great Wood it makes its way up through the trees at the foot of Walla Crag. Once you gain a little altitude the path offers splendid views through the tree canopy to Bassenthwaite and Derwentwater.
For more information on this walk you can visit the National Trust website. There is an excellent interactive map showing all of the routes that are part of the Great British Walk, take your pick and enjoy!
Keswick Christmas lights switch on!!!!!
This year will be special, as not only do we have our Christmas lights being switched on the 13th November (we hope no one is superstitious) but this years Children in Need will be broadcast live from Keswick at the same time!
It promises to be an exciting party of music, entertainment and the festive switch-on of the Christmas lights combined with being part of the annual BBC Children in Need Appeal - North East & Cumbria Show extravaganza will make it a great time for everyone!
We will have Pudsey bear in attendance and all the BBC film crew but our usual stalls with local fare and the traditional mulled wine so its an event not to be missed.
If you are looking to get into the Christmas spirit early then all you have to do is get in touch to make a booking....you will be very welcome and become part of the local community for a very special night.
If you would like to book a stay with us please take a look at ourcurrent availabilityorcontact usfor further information.
Lakeland Trials Vintage Cars at Honister Slate Mine
Any visitor to Keswick and the Lake District is not lost for the large variety of events to cater for everyone who is interested in something different or being able to do things that you dont have time for back home!
On Saturday 7th November we have just such an event taking place; its a car and motorcycle rally at the Honister Slate mine with a hill climb for the entrants. We don't yet have any information on the cars taking part but judging by the picture from an earlier event some of them will struggle to get up Hoister! This was taken on the 2009 event so not sure if it will be taking part this year. Also if the weather is a bit wet the driver and navigator will be getting wet too!
At this moment in time we don't have the timing of when the trials take place Ton the Saturday but more details can be obtained form the Honister Slate mine here www.honister.com.
We are only a short drive from Honister through some fantastic countryside with fabulous views so make sure to check out our availability and book soon not to be disappointed!
If you would like to book a stay with us please take a look at ourcurrent availabilityorcontact usfor further information.
Antique and Collectors fair in Keswick
For those of you who are interested in something old or looking to add to your collection of antiques now is the time to plan a visit to Keswick and a stay with us!
The Antique and collectors fair with fine and vintage jewellery, antiques, collectables, decorative arts, furniture, vintage linens and china from number of local dealers is being held at the Skiddaw Hotel, Main Street, Keswick. If you want to pay by Credit card unfortunately these are not accepted but parking is provided in nearby pay and display car parks. If you are staying with us its free and only a short walk to the fair.
The fair is on for four days with the following dates:
1st and 2nd October 10.00am - 17.00pm
12th November 10.00am -17.00 pm
and 13th November 10.00am - 20.00pm
If you would like to book a stay with us please take a look at ourcurrent availabilityorcontact usfor further information.
Osprey update
It has been a few weeks since we brought you news of the Ospreys and as they are growing quite quickly we thought this was the right time for an update.
Designated V0 and V1, we think they could have been a bit more imaginative with the names, but both chicks have been taking short flights and hoping from branch to branch.
Designated V0 and V1, we think they could have been a bit more imaginative with the names, but both chicks have been taking short flights and hoping from branch to branch.
Dad has been bringing food to the nest including a flounder, so he must have been out to the Solway estuary, plus some pike. The photo opposite shows the chicks squabbling over their latest food delivery and given their size it will not be long before they start their migration to Africa.
If you want to view the Ospreys check here as they may depart at any time now.
If you would like to book a stay with us please take a look at ourcurrent availability or contact usfor further information.
The Lake District for the best fell walking!
With our weather over the weekend having been dryer than of late its always time to highlight some of the excellent fell walks close to Keswick and ideal for those that enjoy less strenuous challenges!
One of these is located on the western side of Borrowdale and is a long undulating ridge occupied by three attractive little peaks, High Spy, Maiden Moor and Cat Bells. When you get onto the ridge the walk along its crest is magnificent. On either side of the ridge there is interest all the way. You get glimpses down into the hanging corries and crags on either side, secretive places that people very rarely bother getting into, all of which is set against the back drop of Borrowdale, the Newlands Valley, the central fells and Skiddaw. The photo on the left is a view of the Newlands valley looking towards Keswick.
From Keswick this walk is best accessed by making use of the regular water bus service which plies its trade around the numerous jetties on the lake shore. The trip is very enjoyable in its own right and you can catch it in either a clockwise and anti-clock wise circuit.
For the technical details of the walk you can use this information:
Start/Finish: High Brandelhow Landing Stage (GR NY251197) Distance: 9 miles (14.6km) Time: 5 - 6 hours Height gain: 800m Maps: OS Landranger 90, OS Explorer OL4, Harveys Superwalker (1:25 000) Lakeland West, British Mountain Maps Lake District (1:40 000).
If you would like to book a stay with us please take a look at ourcurrent availability or contact usfor further information.
Derwentwater Trail for the fit and those that just want to watch!
Starting and finishing at Fitz Park, in Keswick (CA12 4NF), the 10km Derwentwater Trail Run, 15km Derwentwater Trail Race and 15km Derwentwater Trail Challenge take place on the 5th September. It is a circuit along well marked and marshalled footpaths and bridleways, taking in panoramic views of Derwentwater, the surrounding peaks of Skiddaw and Blencathra and the northern fells.
Underfoot conditions are generally good for those used to trail running and those that prefer to walk the route or watch from a vantage point. The course has no stiles, so there is nothing but the hills and the infamous Glendereterra bogs to break up your rhythm.
For both spectators and competitors, a carnival atmosphere is guaranteed with live music, race commentary, food and drink all available at the start and finish. So, whether you're new to trail running, an experienced athlete, or simply looking for an unforgettable day out in the Lake District, a family-friendly, festival atmosphere and some amazing trail running is on offer!
Underfoot conditions are generally good for those used to trail running and those that prefer to walk the route or watch from a vantage point. The course has no stiles, so there is nothing but the hills and the infamous Glendereterra bogs to break up your rhythm.
For both spectators and competitors, a carnival atmosphere is guaranteed with live music, race commentary, food and drink all available at the start and finish. So, whether you're new to trail running, an experienced athlete, or simply looking for an unforgettable day out in the Lake District, a family-friendly, festival atmosphere and some amazing trail running is on offer!
Thanks to Alan Fox for one of his fabulous photos of Derwentwater looking towards Keswick and Skiddaw and although our weather has been inclement (wet) recently we do get some lovely days like this!!
If you would like to book a stay with us please take a look at our current availability or contact us for further information.
Force Crag mine open day
Located at the head of the Coledale valley above Braithwaite near Keswick this mine was the last mineral mine to work in the Lake District. Force Crag mine has everything for those interested in the history of the Lake District from the history and engineering to the geology and geography. The tours do not go underground so no problem about confined spaces or dark corners!!!! In amongst the Lake District fells above Braithwaite only a short distance from Keswick, you can discover what was once a hive of industry. The mining of lead, zinc and barites took place at Force Crag for over 200 years and while production ceased in 1990, the complete processing plant still exists.
If you want more information on location and the tour you can contact the National Trust North Lake office on 017687 74649
The guided tours take place on the 20 August so book a room at Howe Keld now and enjoy an interesting day out to find out how and where the locals used to work.
Thanks to Alan Fox for another of his fabulous photos of Derwentwater looking towards Keswick and Skiddaw.
If you would like to book a stay with us please take a look at our current availability or contact us for further information.
Wainwright exhibition at the Keswick Museum and Art Gallery
This exhibition of Wainwrights works titled 'A love letter to the Lakeland Fells' is on until the 8th November 2105 so plenty of time to arrange a stay and visit the wonderful exhibition for all those who love the English Lakes. On display are his walks and unique method of recording them; his enduring challenge to us as well as celebrating the sheer beauty of the fells!
The museum is working with Kendal Archive Centre who have recently acquired a large archive of his material as part of a Heritage Lottery Funded project. The exhibition will feature original drawings, letters and manuscripts from this collection.
Alan Fox who took the photo below has been able to record the magic of the English lakes with this amazing shot of Buttermere looking towards Haystacks ,nearby Wainwrights final resting place; Inominate Tarn!
The museum is working with Kendal Archive Centre who have recently acquired a large archive of his material as part of a Heritage Lottery Funded project. The exhibition will feature original drawings, letters and manuscripts from this collection.
Alan Fox who took the photo below has been able to record the magic of the English lakes with this amazing shot of Buttermere looking towards Haystacks ,nearby Wainwrights final resting place; Inominate Tarn!
If you would like to book a stay with us please take a look at our current availability or contact us for further information.
Howe Keld guest shoots iconic Lake District photo
Alan Fox a regular visitor to Howe Keld and the Lake District is a keen photographer and last month during a visit to Borrowdale took this amazing shot of a Lake District traditional sheepfold in the Stonethwaite valley.
With it being a photo that epitomises everything about the Lake District, mountains, dry stone walling and the herdwick sheep it was no surprise that The Guardian decided to use Alan's photograph!!
He has kindly agreed for us to share this with you and over the next few weeks we have some more stunning photographs to entice you to come and stay at Howe Keld. You will not be disappointed what is on offer in one of the most beautiful parts of England.
Why not book now and just take in the scenery, its breath taking in more ways than one!!
Our recent weather still means you can enjoy our countryside
It hasn't been fantastic recently and the weekend was particularly misty on the fells with rain on and off. However with Borrowdale only a few miles away having the highest recorded rainfall in the country inclement weather can be expected. The benefit is that our atmosphere is clear and fresh so with just a short hike up some of the fells you can get some stunning views of the totally unspoilt countryside around Keswick.
It also means that after a day out you will feel totally refreshed or if you have done some of the higher peaks in need of some well earned rest and to chill out in our relaxing rooms at Howe Keld. With some of the highest awards and best reviews its worth a visit to experience our hospitality.
Why not book now and just take in the scenery, its breath taking in more ways than one!!
If you would like to book a stay with us please take a look at our current availability or contact us for further information.
Latest Osprey update
As many of our regular guests will know we are passionate about our Lake District, its environment and wild life and with the generous donations from guests we are able to support two projects, The Osprey Project and Red Squirrel project.
The latest news from the nest site is that two days ago two chicks have hatched and are being protected round the clock by a team of over 100 volunteers to ensure the chicks grow up safe and well away from predators and thieves. They are not much to look at the moment but when they grow their feathers appearances will improve!
This is fabulous news for the Lake District and wildlife conservation in general and with over 30 chicks hatched near Keswick over the last 15 and we hope that you will be able to visit and enjoy the sight of these wonderful birds from the designated viewing site at Dodd Wood.
If you would like to book a stay with us please take a look at our current availability or contact us for further information.
Fabulous news as Howe Keld wins another coveted award
We have just been informed that we are the winners of the Tripadvisor Certificate of Excellence Hall of Fame.
This unique accolade is granted only to those businesses that have won the award for five years in a row. From 2011 through to 2015 we have been awarded the Certificate of Excellence and is testimony to the high level service we offer our guests.
Please check out the reviews here and see what our guests have to say about Howe Keld! If you want to experience Lake District hospitality then come and visit us but book ahead as we tend to be very busy and availability may be limited for when you want to stay!
If you would like to book a stay with us please take a look at our current availability or contact us for further information.
Osprey update
Following our earlier blog about the arrival of the Ospreys back in the Lake District we have had word that exciting developments have taken place recently at the nest site.
The picture, courtesy of the Osprey Project, shows Dad doing a bit of housekeeping to the nest along with three new eggs laid late last month! This is great news and fingers crossed that all the eggs hatch after a long wait that is expected. We are pleased that through the generosity of our guests we can continue to support the Osprey Project and hope that the Ospreys in the UK continue to grow in strength and numbers.
You can see the ospreys from one of two open-air viewpoints at Dodd Wood, near Keswick, a short journey from Howe Keld which is ideally located for walking, sight seeing and retail therapy.
If you would like to book a stay with us please take a look at our current availability or contact us for further information.
Derwent Water goes interstellar!
Now you don't have to go to other worlds in our galaxy and beyond to see these Star Wars 'X' wing fighters over Derwent Water and unfortunately we didn't even get a fly past - although the speed and sound would have been too much, you will be able to see them and Derwent Water in the new film!
In a more relaxed setting these images reflect the real beauty of the Lakes only a stones throw from Howe Keld
Make a date to visit us and enjoy the scenery, our hospitality and renowned breakfasts.If you would like to book a stay with us please take a look at our current availability or contact us for further information.
Visitors fly 3000 miles to be close to Keswick
Howe Keld has supported the Osprey Project for quite a few years now and are very pleased to see that the birds have returned to Whinlatter Forest after wintering in Africa. The female bird is know to fly to Senegal but the Osprey Project are not sure where the male goes to but could be somewhere near the coast between Mauritania and Gambia?
Hopefully the female will lay her eggs in the next couple of weeks but it will be another 40-day wait before any chicks hatch. Once we have more news we will keep you updated.
The public can see the ospreys from one of two open-air viewpoints at Dodd Wood, near Keswick, and can also keep track of the birds through live nest pictures at the Whinlatter Visitor Centre.
If you would like to book a stay with us please take a look at our current availability or contact us for further information.
If you are in Keswick be sure to check out this fantastic event and the many products that are on offer.
London Marathon 2015
Our daughter Sophie, who some of you may know as she has served many breakfasts over the years, is running in the London Marathon this April.
Before embarking on her 5 year degree at Edinburgh University,Sophie challenged herself in the Scottish Highlands on the Outward Bound 3 week Classic Course. She put her heart and soul into this experience and as a result gained skills and memories for life.
Sophie is running on behalf of Outward Bound in order to offer other young people less fortunate than herself the opportunity to participate and benefit from their programmes.
Whilst working full time on her year out placement in London, Sophie is training hard and trying to raise the necessary sponsorship goal of £1700. If anyone would like to help her achieve this, online contributions can be made at:
Before embarking on her 5 year degree at Edinburgh University,Sophie challenged herself in the Scottish Highlands on the Outward Bound 3 week Classic Course. She put her heart and soul into this experience and as a result gained skills and memories for life.
Sophie is running on behalf of Outward Bound in order to offer other young people less fortunate than herself the opportunity to participate and benefit from their programmes.
Whilst working full time on her year out placement in London, Sophie is training hard and trying to raise the necessary sponsorship goal of £1700. If anyone would like to help her achieve this, online contributions can be made at:
Alternatively cash donations can be given to David or Val who will submit the total on behalf of Howe Keld guests.
Thanks for your help, there are no administration fees. EVERY PENNY GOES TO OUTWARD BOUND!!
Keswick Film Festival 2015
This year the annual Keswick Film Festival will run from Thursday 26th February to Sunday 1st March. The films will be hosted at the Theatre By The Lake and at the Alhambra Cinema. This year the festival features almost 30 films which together have been nominated for 367 awards and won 197 times.
For more information please take a look at the information on the Festival by clicking here or by visiting the Keswick Film Festival website.
Howe Keld is situated perfectly just a short walk from the Theatre by the Lake and the Centre of Keswick for this great event. If you would like to book a stay with us please take a look at our current availability or contact us for further information.
Here is a lovely shot looking over Derwentwater and Keswick, just as the sun is beginning to set on the horizon.
If you are looking to make a trip to Keswick or the Lake District, please take a look at our online booking facility for our current availability. Any questions you can also contact us and we will be happy to help. We look forward to welcoming you soon!
Happy 2015 to everyone from us at Howe Keld!
Happy new year to all from us at Howe Keld!
Winter has its grips on us up here in the English Lake District as seen in this photo taken last week from the summit of Great Mell Fell. The shot has been taken looking over towards Blencathra and then Keswick in the very distance.
Also, bookings can now be made through our online portal for this coming Spring time. Please consult our online booking facility for current availability. Any questions you can also contact us and we will be happy to help.
Howe Keld to be listed in the prestigious Michelin Guide
We are excited to announce that Howe Keld will again feature in the prestigious Michelin Guide for 2015. This is a great achievement for us considering that the selection criteria to be listed in the guide is extremely high. At Howe Keld we always strive to be the best and this listing confirms our standing as one of the leading guest houses in Keswick and the Lake District.
The Michelin Guide is regarded as one of the most reliable pointers to quality and consistency in the hospitality industry. For more than one hundred years, Michelin has been producing guide books, awarding a select few best restaurants, hotels, guest houses and B&B's for excellence and outstanding quality.
If you would like to know more about the guides or purchase the 2015 edition, please visit the Travel Michelin website.
