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Cat Bells walk, Lake District

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Catbells
© Holly Brega

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Walk Details
This popular route up Cat Bells is one of the best walks in the Lake District – with huge views over Derwent Water, Keswick and the surrounding fells.

Cat Bells is a small hill that feels like a big mountain, with a perfectly shaped summit cone and a short rocky scramble near the top.

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This is a popular walk with everyone from tourists to experienced hikers – and is often used is a starter peak for parents introducing their children to hill walking.

Starting at the base Cat Bells and climbing steeply over Skelgill Bank, mountainous views quickly open up around you with the Newlands Horseshoe directly ahead and the Lake District’s shapely North-Western Fells to your right.

After bagging Cat Bells’ summit you continue onwards before dropping down towards beautiful Derwent Water at Hause Gate, then following an easy but spectacular footpath back to your start point.

This route was voted fourth in a 2017 ITV poll to find Britain’s Favourite Walk.

TOG VERDICT: Possibly England’s finest mini mountain – perfect for everyone from families to experienced fell walkers. We love it!

Carpark: The small carpark near Hawes End.

trainNearest Train (or tube) Station(s):
Oxenholme, Carlisle

Local Information

Castlerigg
View details
YHA Hawes End View details
YHA Borrowdale View details
YHA Buttermere View details
YHA Keswick View details
OS Lake District Picnic Blanket View details
Map of The Lake District: North-western area View details

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Rebound FItness
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Healthy Back Bag
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Ordnance Survey
ICE Trikes
Tripulse
The Cornish Seaweed Bath Company
Bahé Grounding Shoes

Read the Countryside Code before venturing out
Make sure to take a map and compass, and know how to use them before going into our National Parks #BeAdventureSmart

Tips for New Walkers: click here to download (PDF).

Remember to prepare properly before heading out on any type of walk or outdoor activity. Tell people where you are going and what time you are expected back. As Wainwright says "There's no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing".