Celebrate Cinema at the 25th Keswick Film Festival

Keswick Film Festival March 2025

A Weekend of World-Class Cinema in the Iconic Lake District

For those who appreciate both cinematic artistry and tranquil natural settings, the 25th Keswick Film Festival is an event worth marking in your calendar. From 6th to 9th March 2025, this anniversary edition promises an exceptional line-up, bringing together films from around the world against the backdrop of the beautiful Lake District. Whether you're a lifelong cinephile or simply a lover of unique experiences, it's an ideal way to enrich your time in this spectacular part of the UK.

Set in the charming market town of Keswick, nestled within the picturesque surroundings of Derwentwater, the film festival offers not only an artistic feast but also an opportunity to explore nature, indulge in leisure, and relax in luxurious stays such as Thornbeck Manor, located nearby. If you appreciate the finer things in life, this immersive escape could be just the sort of event that resonates.

What Makes the 25th Keswick Film Festival Special?

This year’s festival celebrates a quarter-century of bringing compelling storytelling to life on the screen. The comprehensive programme spans multiple genres, styles, and cultural perspectives. Here's a glimpse of what’s in store for attendees:

• Films from around the world: Enjoy the critically acclaimed Bhutanese drama The Monk and the Gun, Indian fantasy-horror with Sister Midnight, the Scandinavian gem Stormskerry Maja, and Iranian comedy-drama No End.

• Oscar-tipped animations and classics: Don’t miss animation highlights like Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away or Flow. For fans of martial arts, Ang Lee’s Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon is also scheduled to screen as part of this year’s selection.

• Short film celebrations: Cheer on rising stars during the Osprey Awards and discover acclaimed shorts from the Oska Bright fest.

With such a diverse offering, this year's festival isn’t just a celebration of cinema—it’s a doorway for attendees to experience new cultures and stories, all in one weekend.

Practical Details to Plan Your Visit

Tickets and Passes: Passes and tickets are readily available online via the Keswick Alhambra website. A standard adult pass allows access to all festival screenings and is priced at £75, with discounts for students and members of the Keswick Film Club. However, it’s important to book seats for your preferred screenings in advance, as passes don’t guarantee admission without prior reservations.

Screening Venues: Films will be shown across several venues in the area, including the Alhambra Cinema, Theatre by the Lake, and Rheged. A shuttle bus will also be available on Sunday between Keswick and Penrith for ease of transport.

Accommodation: If you’re travelling to Keswick specifically for the festival, comfortable and well-positioned accommodation is key to maximising your enjoyment of the event. Thornbeck Manor provides an excellent option for those seeking a relaxed and luxurious base. This elegant villa retreat allows you to balance the excitement of the festival with the tranquillity of the Lake District.

Experience the Perfect Blend of Nature and Culture

What sets the Keswick Film Festival apart from other cinematic events is its unique location. Imagine spending your day surrounded by some of the UK’s most stunning landscapes, only to wind down in front of thought-provoking and visually stunning films in the evening.

The Lake District National Park is an ideal setting for such a multi-dimensional event. Before or between screenings, you might choose to indulge your love of nature by exploring the local walking trails around Derwentwater or venturing up nearby fells such as Walla Crag or Catbells. Whether you're an avid hiker or simply enjoy the peace of a lakeside stroll, Keswick effortlessly combines outdoor exploration with the comforts of a cultural hub.

And after a long day of films and walks, returning to a luxurious retreat like Thornbeck Manor elevates the experience. With its spacious living areas, sumptuous bedding, and thoughtful amenities, it’s a place where leisure-focused visitors can make the most of their time in the region. It’s easy to see why this exclusive Windermere villa is such a sought-after option for Lake District getaways.

Highlighted Films to Watch

The programme for the Keswick Film Festival teems with excitement, from indie gems to world cinema classics. Here are a few highlights to keep an eye out for, whether you're booking in advance or picking on the day:

• The Monk and the Gun (Bhutan): Could this be the year Pawo Choyning Dorji makes festival history with a second Audience Award win? If his previous film, Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom, is anything to go by, The Monk and the Gun is a must-watch.

• Sister Midnight (India): Lovers of experimental cinema and genre-blending narratives should catch this fantastical take on the horror genre.

• Flow (Animation): A family-friendly hit that’s just as enthralling for adults, this Oscar-tipped movie promises stunning visuals and emotional depth.

For those more inclined towards classic cinema, Ang Lee’s Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and the charming magic of Spirited Away bring timeless enchantment to the event.

Maximise Your Festival Experience

If you're considering attending the Keswick Film Festival, take a moment to plan your visit thoughtfully. To avoid disappointment, book your festival pass and individual film tickets in advance. If you’re unsure which films to prioritise, try dabbling in a mix of genres and cultural traditions—sometimes the lesser-known titles steal the spotlight.

Beyond the screenings, make time to explore Keswick’s vibrant atmosphere. Local restaurants, quaint tea rooms, and boutique shops add an additional layer of charm to this lovely market town. For a truly special retreat, consider Thornbeck Manor as your luxury escape during the festival. Its proximity to Lake District attractions ensures you’ll never be far from the beauty and culture of this remarkable region.

Whether you’re coming for the cinema, the scenery, or the combination of both, Keswick and its annual film festival provide all the ingredients for a memorable weekend.