Highlight • Summit
Catbells Summit
Hiking
5.0
(1019)
Running
5.0
(15)
Walking routes to Catbells start either just above the shores of Derwent Water or from the charming farmsteads of the Newlands Valley. The northern ridgeline is wonderfully atmospheric, with some thrillingly steep sections. It’s perfect for hooking the children into adventurous hillwalking, whilst your canine companion will have a blast as well.
Lakeland’s most legendary mini-mountain
More Wainwrights can be bagged by continuing south to Maiden Moor and High Spy, a straightforward hike on clearly defined trails. Catbells is quieter in winter and makes for a splendid objective if the higher fells are dusted with snow.
A splendid stone pillar adorns the summit, with a circular topograph allowing you to name the surrounding mountains. The view down to the island-studded Derwent Water is spectacular, whilst Skiddaw looks grand, along with its noble, rounded family rising above Keswick. To the west are the magnificent, grassy ridgelines of the North Western Fells; the view along the Causey Pike ridge to Crag Hill is particularly special.
The outdoor mecca of Keswick is a superb base for the region, with gear shops, cafés, restaurants and pubs all saturated in Lakeland’s hiking culture. Taking a boat from Keswick’s lakeside to Hawes End is a fantastic way to extend your Catbells adventure.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
October 17, 2018
Hiking
June 18, 2019
Hiking
December 13, 2019
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Catbells Summit
4.9
(331)
1,713
hikers
7.09km
02:27
360m
360m
Embark on the Cat Bells & Derwent Water loop, a moderate hike covering 4.4 miles (7.1 km) with an elevation gain of 1177 feet (359 metres), typically completed in 2 hours and 26 minutes. This popular route offers a varied terrain, starting with well-trodden paths before a steep ascent up Cat Bells, which involves some minor rocky sections requiring you to use your hands for balance. From the summit, you are rewarded with incredible 360-degree panoramas of Derwent Water, Keswick, and surrounding fells like Skiddaw. The trail then descends to gentler paths, including the Allerdale Ramble, winding along the lake's lower slopes and through peaceful woodlands.
For this rewarding loop, proper grippy walking shoes or boots are highly recommended, especially since sections can be slippery when wet. The trail is generally considered easy to moderate, making it manageable for most walkers, including beginners and families new to fell walking. While the classic route is around 3.5 miles, this specific Komoot route offers a slightly longer experience. You will find the area to be quite popular, so expect company on the paths, particularly during peak seasons.
Cat Bells is an iconic and beloved fell in the Lake District, known for its accessibility and for offering some of the most spectacular and comprehensive views despite its modest height. It serves as an excellent introduction to fell walking, providing a taste of the region's mountainous terrain without being overly technical or strenuous. The lakeside portions of the loop offer serene views across the water, often with opportunities to see islands like Rampsholme Island and Derwent Isle, adding to the diverse scenery of this memorable hike.
4.8
(138)
1,037
hikers
14.3km
04:20
410m
420m
The Derwent Water Ferry & Catbells loop from Keswick offers a moderate hiking experience, covering 8.9 miles (14.3 km) with an elevation gain of 1358 feet (414 metres). You can expect to complete this diverse route in about 4 hours and 19 minutes. As you hike, you will encounter varied terrain, from easy paths along the lakeside to rocky steps and minor scrambling as you approach the summit of Catbells. The highlight is the expansive 360-degree views from Catbells Summit, where you can see Derwent Water, Keswick, and the surrounding fells. The trail also winds through peaceful woodlands and along picturesque lakeside scenes, providing a classic Lakeland atmosphere.
This route is easily accessible from Keswick, making it a popular choice for hikers. A key part of the experience involves using the Keswick Launch, a ferry service that transports you across Derwent Water to Hawes End Jetty, where the hike begins. This adds a unique element to your day, so factor in ferry times when planning your start. While generally considered beginner-friendly for fell walking, the rockier sections near Catbells require good fitness and sure-footedness. Due to its popularity, especially during peak season, you should plan for potential crowds on the trail.
What sets this particular loop apart is the integration of the scenic Derwent Water ferry ride, transforming a standard hike into a more comprehensive Lakeland adventure. This journey across the water provides a different perspective of the fells before you even begin your ascent. The trail is a fantastic introduction to fell walking for those new to the Lake District, offering significant rewards without extreme technical difficulty. It combines the tranquility of lakeside paths with the exhilaration of a summit climb, all within easy reach of Keswick.
4.6
(31)
430
hikers
17.2km
06:53
960m
960m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 470 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
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Wednesday 6 May
12°C
3°C
32 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 19.0 km/h
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