Keswick transport & getting around

Parking

There are a number of car parks in Keswick, both in the town centre and on the outskirts, however, if you are coming to Keswick by car, it is essential to note that there is limited parking in the town centre.

There are a number of pay-and-display car parks, as well as some on-street parking. However, spaces fill up quickly, especially during the peak tourist season. If you plan to park in Keswick, it is advisable to arrive early to avoid disappointment.

For guests staying with Lakeland Retreats, if parking is not provided at the property, you may be provided with a permit for on-street parking or for use in one of the pay-and-display car parks.

Visiting with your EV?

Public Transport

Keswick is served by a good public transport system, with regular buses running to and from neighbouring towns and villages.

With a Stagecoach pass, you can jump on and off their buses anywhere on their 555 route that runs through the whole of the central Lakes. This is an excellent option for taking the hassle out of seeing different areas during your visit, often saving time and money by negating the need to find spaces in crowded car parks and paying their fees.

And, with most vehicles on the route being double-decker busses (some are even open-topped) you can sit high up, with everyone, including the usual designated driver, getting to enjoy the stunning views the Lakes have to offer at an optimum vantage point.

For more information about public transport and timetables, take a look a the Visit Keswick guide.

Otley Road Car Park
Otley Rd, Keswick, CA12 5LE

Central Car Park
Keswick, CA12 5DN

Rawnsley Centre
Main St, Keswick CA12 5NP

Booths Supermarket
Keswick, CA12 5NZ

Is there a train station in Keswick?

There isn’t a train station in Keswick anymore. The town’s railway station closed in 1972 as part of the broader cuts to the rail network known as the Beeching cuts, which were implemented in the 1960s and 1970s to reduce costs.

However, the legacy of the old Keswick Railway Line lives on. The Keswick to Threlkeld Railway Path is a popular walking and cycling trail that follows the route of the former railway. This path stretches for about 5 kilometres (3 miles) and offers stunning views of the surrounding Lake District scenery. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a bit of adventure while soaking in the natural beauty of the area.

How to get to Keswick by train

Although Keswick no longer has its own train station, you can still reach this charming town by train with a bit of planning and a scenic bus ride.

1. Travel to Penrith: The nearest mainline railway station to Keswick is Penrith North Lakes. Penrith is well-connected and accessible from major cities like London, Manchester, and Glasgow via the West Coast Main Line.
2. Bus from Penrith to Keswick: Once you arrive in Penrith, you can catch a bus to Keswick. The Stagecoach bus service, specifically the X4/X5 route, runs regularly between Penrith and Keswick. The journey takes around 40 minutes, and the buses are typically timed to connect with train arrivals, making the transfer smooth and convenient.