Keswick is one of the most popular towns in Cumbria, beloved by local residents and the thousands of holiday makers who visit the Lake Districtevery year. Many are attracted by the spectacular surrounding scenery and the rich history of the area. Those who visit can appreciate why this part of Britain was such a source of inspiration to poets, authors and artists.
The first recorded mention of Keswick was in 1276 when Edward I granted a charter for the local market, which is still held in the town today. During the sixteenth century, copper mining brought wealth to the area. Later it was graphite, and then the railways brought the tourists flocking here.
In this book, local authors Beth and Steve Pipe seek out the fascinating hidden aspects of Keswick’s rich and intriguing heritage. Stories of local people, places and events weave a fascinating tale that spans the centuries. Discover the history and stories behind the Keswick Brewing Company, the town’s Literary and Scientific Society and the incredible Alhambra Cinema, which has been in continuous operation for more than a century. Learn more about Keswick’s graphite mining industry – a trade that gave the phrases ‘black market’ and ‘a wad of cash’ to the English language – and the town’s superb pencil museum. For visitors and residents alike, Secret Keswick will reveal more fascinating stories and the lesser-known gems to be found within this delightful Cumbrian town.
You can purchase Secret Keswick using this link or at most good bookshops
This guide describes ascents of 30 Lake District fells that can be climbed from Keswick, the Whinlatter Pass, Bassenthwaite, Hesket Newmarket, Mungrisdale and Threlkeld. The giants of the region Skiddaw and Blencathra need little introduction, their myriad routes attracting many a visitor and promising fantastic far-reaching views. The summits to the north, however, are less frequented, offering probably the closest experience to wilderness walking the Lakes has to offer, whereas to the west, the Whinlatter group present a sylvan alternative.
Unlike other guidebooks which describe a single or limited number of routes to a particular destination, the aim of the Walking the Lake District Fells series is to offer all the options. These are presented as numbered sections which can be combined to create infinite possibilities - from simple ascents to longer ridge routes. You'll find the classics and popular routes alongside less traditional alternatives perfect for the wandering spirit. The series gives you both the freedom to devise your own routes and the information to make informed decisions, thanks to the clear descriptions of the routes, terrain, hazards, interesting features and safe descent paths should the weather close in. Also included are a handful of classic ridge routes for longer fell days.
Mark Richards' inimitable text is complemented by HARVEY mapping and the author's own beautiful sketch topos and panoramas. Perfect for keen hillwalkers and peak-baggers alike and ideal both for pre-planning and use on the hill, Walking the Lake District Fells is the new incarnation of the Fellranger series, which sees the volumes updated and trimmed to a more practical size. These true connoisseurs' guides are sure to inspire you to get out and explore the beautiful fells of Lakeland.
You can purchase The Fellranger Guide - Keswick using this link or at most good bookshops