Overview of Barrow Walk:
At a height of only 455m, Barrow commands superb views over Bassenthwaite Lake, Braithwaite, Derwentwater and Keswick. Although uphill all the way, the walk to the summit of Barrow can easily be enjoyed as a family outing.

Submitted: 30 Aug 10
Date Updated: 20 Aug 2024
Recommended Map: Explorer OL4 – Buy on Amazon
Difficulty Rating:
Family Walk Danger Rating: |
Time to complete: About 2 hours Distance: About 5km (3 miles) | Car Parking/Walk Start: On street car parking in the village of Braithwaite, near Keswick. |
Refreshments: Several pubs in Braithwaite. | Wheelchair and Push Chair Suitability: Not suitable. | Public Transport: X5 – Penrith/Workington; X58 – Maryport/Keswick or 77/77A Keswick/Lorton |

Barrow Walk Description:
The walk starts from the village centre of Braithwaite, just outside of Keswick. Walk past the Royal Oak on the road to Whinlatter (B5292). Take a left over the narrow bridge when you see the road sign “Youth Centre, Coledale”.
Bear left at the Braithwaite Methodist Church onto a surfaced footpath up to the Coledale Inn. At the Coledale Inn, bear left and follow the tarmac road around a bend as it heads up past houses (which are on your right).
Ignore the footpath on your left and stay on the tarmac road. Continue up to a kissing gate where the tarmac road ends. Go through the gate and continue upwards on a gravelled surfaced lane.


The view soon opens up behind you, with Bassenthwaite Lake and Skiddaw being the main items of interest. Grisedale Pike is to your right as you head up the fell side.
Keep heading uphill onto the open fell; you need to aim for “Barrow Door” which is the centre of the V shape in between Barrow and Stile End.
Once there, take the path on the left and continue up to the summit of Barrow. You are then rewarded with inspiring views over Derwentwater and Keswick. It’s a great place for a picnic on a nice day, but it can be exposed if there is any wind.

Descend north-easterly towards Skiddaw, at the bottom of the fell bear left towards the dry stone wall. Proceed on directly through the farm yard and down the long farm drive back to Braithwaite.
Take a left at the bottom of the farm drive, onto a busy minor road to the village centre.
Points of Interest:
Braithwaite is within a short drive of the Whinlatter Forest Centre, which offers many family activities, such as “Go Ape” zip wires and an adventure playground. In summer, you can see a live TV link to the local osprey nest.


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Whilst we try our very best to ensure the accuracy of this information, we accept no liability for anyone getting lost or injured. You should always consult your ordnance survey map for exact details and wear appropriate clothing for the weather conditions.