Braithwaite Dam: Local Gem

View looking downstream from the gravel island at Braithwaite Dam on Coledale Beck, showing the clear water, green metal railings, and surrounding lush woodland near Keswick.

Welcome to Braithwaite Dam, known locally as The Dam, a Lake District DNA Local Gem. Tucked neatly on the quiet edge of Braithwaite village, this tranquil mountain pool is the ultimate place to relax. You can listen to the rushing water. In addition, you can let your dog have a paddle. You can also dip your feet in after a long hike. While many visitors flock to Derwentwater, Braithwaite Dam offers a quiet alternative near Keswick.

Scenic view looking upstream at Coledale Beck from Braithwaite Dam, showing a shallow rocky stream with clear water flowing through dense green summer trees and ferns near Keswick.

Lush green ferns and moss-covered riverbanks lining the shallow, clear waters of Coledale Beck, viewed from the slate pebble shingle island at Braithwaite Dam near Keswick.

🌟 Why It’s a Local Gem

It is the quintessential post-adventure wind-down location. For instance, whether you have just conquered the high ridges of Grisedale Pike or spent an afternoon exploring Whinlatter Forest, this tranquil spot sits right at the valley opening. Furthermore, it offers clear mountain waters to cool your feet in, incredible photo angles of the rushing beck, and a traditional village pub just two minutes down the lane.

📍 Quick Essentials & Getting to Braithwaite Dam

Location: Coledale Beck, Braithwaite, Keswick (CA12 5TX).
Where to Park: Limited parking is available near the bottom of the gravel track past the church turn-off. In addition, you can park in the village centre. You can also use the patron car park at the Coledale Inn when visiting for food.

Top Local Tip: Don’t skip a visit to the historic Coledale Inn afterwards. Grab a table in the beer garden, or relax by the open fire with a hearty pub meal and a cold local ale.

View of the historic Coledale Inn coaching inn from a wooden picnic bench in the pub garden, showing patrons sitting outside with the green Cumbrian fells rising in the background in Braithwaite near Keswick.

If you enjoy exploring quiet local routes, be sure to check out our Seatoller to Grange walk guide or browse our Lake District DNA shop for local mountain apparel.

🏡 Where to Stay Near Braithwaite Dam

The Coledale Inn (Braithwaite): A charming, traditional coaching inn tucked at the base of the hills with cosy rooms, great food, and instant access to the trails. A 5-10 minute walk away
Braithwaite Village Cottages & B&Bs: A collection of cosy stone holiday cottages throughout the village, offering an idyllic base just a 5-minute drive from Keswick.
Braithwaite Campsites: Ideal for campers and campervans looking to pitch up with sweeping views of the Northern Fells.