There is no shortage of things to do near Borrowdale, with opportunities for mountain walks, cycling trails and family attractions on the doorstep. Staying at The Royal Oak in Rosthwaite puts the Borrowdale Valley, Derwentwater and Keswick within easy reach, whether you are planning an active weekend, a family break or your first visit to the Lake District.
Explore from the hotel door, discover scenic places further along the valley or head towards Keswick for more activities near Borrowdale.
Walking remains one of the best ways to discover Borrowdale. Choose from short riverside and woodland walks, family walks and dog walks, or head higher for classic fell walking around Castle Crag and the surrounding fells. Routes towards Watendlath, the River Derwent and Derwentwater provide gentler alternatives when you want to stay at valley level.
Our walking guide covers easy routes, hidden gems and more demanding Lake District hikes, helping you choose a walk to match your ability, available time and the weather.
There are plenty of places to visit near Borrowdale even when you are not heading out for a full day’s walk. Discover the enormous Bowder Stone, see Lodore Falls after heavy rain or follow the valley towards Honister Pass and Honister Slate Mine.
There is always something happening around Keswick and the northern Lake District. Alongside one-off performances, races and seasonal events, several established events return regularly and can make a useful addition to a stay in Borrowdale.
Usually held in spring, Keswick Mountain Festival combines trail running, cycling, swimming and other outdoor challenges with live entertainment and a festival village beside Derwentwater. The next confirmed festival is scheduled for 21–23 May 2027.
An annual celebration of international and independent cinema, Keswick Film Festival uses venues including the Alhambra Cinema and Theatre by the Lake. The 2026 festival took place in March, with the next edition already confirmed for 18–21 March 2027.
Held in the run-up to Christmas, Keswick Victorian Fayre brings festive entertainment, stalls and traditional celebrations to the centre of Keswick. The event returns annually, with the 2026 fayre scheduled for Sunday 6 December.
For something available throughout the year, Whinlatter Forest hosts a free 5km parkrun every Saturday at 9am. The forest course is known for its climbs and impressive Lake District views, and is open to runners and walkers of different abilities.
Looking for more inspiration before your stay? Read the Royal Oak blog for local walking ideas, seasonal recommendations, Lake District guides and tips from our team on making the most of your time in Borrowdale.
Honister Slate Mine is one of the Lake District's most unusual days out, sitting at the very top of Borrowdale.
The Catbells walk is one of the most popular fell walks in the Lake District, and it's easy to see why.
Some theatres are worth visiting for the building alone, and Theatre by the Lake in Keswick is one of them.
The Derwent Pencil Museum in Keswick tells a story that begins much closer to Rosthwaite than most visitors realise.