Derwentwater

Lovely paths to explore alongside Derwent Water, within walking/rollin distance of Keswick town centre. Large car park nearby. Mix of tarmac, gravel, firm dirt, hard stone and boardwalk. I was on electric scooter and easily did 8km after a day of continuous rain, so drains/dries easily. Beautiful scenery over the lake or back to the mountains to the north. It was easy to pass others on almost all paths. Became less busy the further I went from the car park. There were a few gates but they were light enough for me to operate from my chair. There were a number of benches if you needed a rest.

Paths are very good but storm Desmond did its best to pull out bridges and cover riverside paths. Most was dealt with but some areas were narrow in places. Much work has taken place to ensure walkers can get from a to b easily. I used the tarmac path next to the road this time, although narrow and having to get down a deep kerb getting there, (created a little tension on the way back because my chair could not climb it, but I found a lower one further on, although on the road). Some tarmac is rough in Portinscale and some of the walk is on the road, there is not a lot of traffic and the small nature reserve is accessible (a small steep section) and they have replaced the bench next to Derwentwater. I love it - should I really be telling anyone?

Spectacular views and changing river beds. Some easy ground up to Friars Crag and plenty of difficulty if the walk is extended around the lake. Well worth the effort s this walk mixes everything - mountains, water, prehistoric sensory input amid the old damp trees, sheep grazing, panoramic views over the lake - so much to enjoy and absorb.