Whenever anyone thinks of the Lake District they immediately think of sailing across Windermere, the storybook village of Grasmere and its literary history, or the dramatic, rugged landscapes of Ullswater and its cascading waterfall.

But there’s so many more tucked away gems to discover, such as the picturesque little town of Keswick with its cobblestone streets, traditional shops and pubs, and spectacular mountainous surroundings.

The Royal Oak, an 18th century coach inn once enjoyed by Sir Walter Scott, has been lovingly restored into a modern day gastropub, with 18 bedrooms that still retain the building’s character and charm, following a million-pound makeover from the Daniel Thwaites group. Situated right on the corner of Main Street, just off the town square, it’s a well-appointed base for weekends spent exploring what Keswick and its marvellous surroundings have to offer.

Last Saturday (13 September), my partner Dave and I were kindly invited to spend a night here during our long weekend in the Lake District.

From rummaging for antiques on St John’s Street to unleashing your inner animal at Lake District Wildlife Park, to pitstops at The Pencil Museum and even a ghost walk for good measure, here’s how you can spend 24 hours in Keswick.

Keswick

You never know what treasures you might find inside an antique store and there’s some absolute corkers to go rummaging in around here. There might only be a handful of vintage and antique shops, but what Keswick lacks in quantity it sure makes up for in quality; from ornate Victorian paperweights and pottery at Price Walker to rare vinyls and vintage cameras at Keswick Collectables, be sure to delve deep - there’s a great selection of unique oddities ready to be unearthed.

If there’s one place in Cumbria that’s perfect for monkeying around, it's Lake District Wildlife Park, located less than a 20-minute drive from Keswick town centre. Open seven days a week and set on 24 acres of parkland, there’s over 100 different species of wild and domestic animals to see and learn about - some you can feed and even get up close and personal with by booking one of the park’s dedicated experiences, such as alpaca walking and more. It’s a great day out for all ages.

2025 09 21 Lake District Wildlife Park — **Lake District Wildlife Park** Image: Confidentials

Granted they’re not the most exciting thing in the world, but without pencils, where would we be? Running around panicking, trying to remember shopping lists and phone numbers, probably. Derwent Pencil Museum on Carding Mill Lane takes you on a ‘journey of pencil and graphite discovery’, where you’ll learn about everything from the history of graphite and where it was first discovered to the Secret Pencils of World War II.

If you’re into all things otherworldly and spiritual, The Keswick Ghost Walk will be right up your street. Book on, meet at The Tourist Information Centre at The Moot Hall and be prepared to get scared as you take a trip around the town, learning all about the ancient superstitions of the lake counties and the dark secrets beneath the waters.

2025 09 21 The Royal Oak Outside — **The Royal Oak** Image: Confidentials

Checking in

As The Royal Oak is an operating pub and restaurant throughout the day, there’s a separate entrance around the side of the building for guests that are staying in the rooms to use. The bar is a very popular spot and, as all popular spots should be, gets very busy from time to time so there’s the very real possibility of a delay to check-in as we experienced. Not to worry though, because as soon as a member of staff was available we were warmly greeted and swiftly given our room key before being directed upstairs.

2025 09 21 The Royal Oak Room — **Inside our room** Image: Confidentials

The room

Described as one of the hotel’s ‘Character Rooms’, room number seven was just that; a cosy, countryesque spot that oozes Thwaites’ signature quirky, modern inn style whilst still incorporating some charming original features of the building.

Kitted out with all the home comforts - including a smart TV, robe and slippers, toiletries from Cumbrian skincare brand Bath House, a coffee machine and even some complimentary, locally-made fudge to enjoy with your brew - it’s clear to see why many guests choose for The Royal Oak when deciding to staycation in The Lakes.

Dogs are also made to feel just as welcome as their human companions, being treated to their own comfy bed and a pack of goodies as part of Thwaites’ Waggy Tails Welcome Package.