
Great Wood Derwentwater
Discover breathtaking views from Walla Crag and serene lakeside strolls around Derwentwater, a gem in the Lake District.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light over the water

Great Wood Derwentwater
Best Time
Magical light over the water

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover breathtaking views from Walla Crag and serene lakeside strolls around Derwentwater, a gem in the Lake District.
"The views from Walla Crag are so worth it, oh my!"

🚗 Parking Fees
National Trust members park free. Non-members pay £4/2hrs or £7/4hrs. Arrive early!
⚠️ Walla Crag Scramble
Be careful on steep trails up Walla Crag; some routes have treacherous scrambles.

Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.3 · 236 reviews
Type
Parking
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Walla Crag Views
Summit of Walla Crag
Breathtaking panoramic views of Derwentwater and the surrounding fells. Worth the moderate climb!

Derwentwater Lakeside Stroll
Shoreline of Derwentwater
Peaceful and serene walks along the water's edge, perfect for enjoying the blue hour magic.

Catbells Hike
Near Keswick
A short, rewarding climb with stunning vistas over Derwentwater. Ideal for a quick adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking & Access
Best Walking Routes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Fees
National Trust members park free. Non-members pay £4/2hrs or £7/4hrs. Arrive early!
⚠️ Walla Crag Scramble
Be careful on steep trails up Walla Crag; some routes have treacherous scrambles.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for navigating varied terrain, especially if tackling Catbells or Walla Crag. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Golden Hour Views
The 'blue hour' offers magical light over Derwentwater. Don't miss it! :iphone:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Fees
National Trust members park free. Non-members pay £4/2hrs or £7/4hrs. Arrive early!
⚠️ Walla Crag Scramble
Be careful on steep trails up Walla Crag; some routes have treacherous scrambles.
👟 Comfortable Footwear
Essential for navigating varied terrain, especially if tackling Catbells or Walla Crag. :athletic_shoe:
📸 Golden Hour Views
The 'blue hour' offers magical light over Derwentwater. Don't miss it! :iphone:
🗺️ Route Planning
Check routes beforehand, especially for Walla Crag's southern side. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the stunning views from Walla Crag and the serene beauty of Derwentwater, making it ideal for walks and photography. Parking is convenient but can be costly for non-members, and some trails on Walla Crag require caution due to steepness.
"A nice car park to venture for a walk around derwentwater and enjoy the scenery."
Terry
"Ample parking, usually National Trust staff on site to give advice. £7 for 4 hours, £4 for 2 hours, free for National Trust members. Be very careful of which route you take up Walla Crag, there is a VERY treacherous scramble if you decide to rake the steep trail."
Adventure Dogs Of Derbyshire
"Reasonably priced car parking for walking around Great Wood. Main walk to Crag has some pretty steep stepping stones on southern most side, probably better going up them than down ! Wonderful views from top."
Michael F
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Great Wood Derwentwater is accessible by car, with National Trust car parks available. It's also reachable via public transport with bus services to Keswick, followed by a walk or local taxi.
Yes, there are National Trust car parks. Fees apply for non-members (£4 for 2 hours, £7 for 4 hours). Parking can be limited during busy periods.
Cycling routes are available in the Lake District, and you can cycle to the Great Wood area. Secure bike parking may be limited, so plan accordingly.
While the closest major hub is Keswick, reaching Great Wood directly via public transport might require a significant walk or a local taxi service from Keswick.
From Keswick, head south on the A591. Look for signs directing you to the National Trust car parks for Great Wood and Derwentwater. The exact route will depend on your starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the walking areas is generally free. However, parking in the National Trust car parks requires payment unless you are a National Trust member.
The car parks and walking trails are typically open from dawn till dusk. There are no set opening hours for the natural landscape itself.
National Trust members receive free parking. There are no other specific entry discounts mentioned for the general walking areas.
Advance booking for parking is generally not available. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is recommended.
No, the walks around Derwentwater and through Great Wood are free to access. The cost is associated with parking.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The walk up Walla Crag offers stunning views, though some routes can be steep and involve scrambles. Lakeside strolls are more gentle and serene.
The walk to Walla Crag is considered moderately strenuous. While the main path is manageable, some steeper trails have treacherous scrambles.
Expect beautiful lake views, surrounding fells, and woodland. The 'blue hour' is particularly magical for photography.
National Trust car parks often have basic facilities, including toilets. It's advisable to check the National Trust website for specific amenities at the Great Wood car park.
Yes, the lakeside paths are generally suitable for families. However, more challenging hikes like Walla Crag might be better for older children or those experienced with hiking.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Walla Crag provides panoramic vistas. The lakeside offers serene shots, especially during the 'blue hour' for atmospheric lighting.
Early morning or late evening, particularly during the 'blue hour' or golden hour, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for landscape photography.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A tripod can be useful for low-light conditions during blue hour.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and landowner permission. It's best to check with the National Trust or local authorities before flying a drone in the area.
The reflections on the water, the surrounding fells, the islands on the lake, and the woodland paths are all highly photogenic.










Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit