Cat Bells Walk, Lake District – 3 Mile Circular Walk, Derwentwater

Q: Is Cat Bells suitable for beginners?

Cat Bells is widely regarded as an excellent introduction to Lake District fell walking. The route is short and follows well-used paths, but the climb is steep in places and includes rocky steps and light scrambling. Beginners should choose settled weather, wear suitable footwear and allow plenty of time.

Q: Is there any scrambling on the Cat Bells walk?

Yes. There are several short rocky sections where walkers may need to use their hands for balance. The scrambling is generally straightforward in dry conditions, but the rock may become slippery when wet or icy.

Q: Can I reach Cat Bells without a car?

Yes. One of the most enjoyable options is to take the Keswick Launch across Derwentwater to Hawes End Landing Stage and begin the walk from there. Boat timetables vary by season and weather, so check the return sailings before setting out.

Q: Where can I park for the Cat Bells walk?

Limited roadside parking is available near Hawes End, but spaces fill quickly during weekends, holidays and fine weather. Arrive early, park responsibly and do not block access. An alternative is to park in Keswick and travel to Hawes End by boat.

Q: Is the Cat Bells walk dog-friendly?

Many fit and agile dogs complete the route, but owners should consider the rocky scrambling sections and steep ground. Dogs should be kept under close control, particularly around livestock, other walkers and exposed parts of the ridge.

Q: Can children complete the Cat Bells walk?

Many families complete Cat Bells with older or active children. Younger children may need close supervision and assistance on the steep rocky sections. Adults should assess the weather, the child's confidence and their experience on uneven mountain terrain.

Q: Are there toilets on the Cat Bells route?

There are no dependable public toilets on the walking route itself. Facilities are available in Keswick, and toilets may be available close to some Derwentwater landing stages or nearby visitor facilities depending on their opening arrangements.

Q: How long does the Cat Bells circular walk take?

Most walkers should allow approximately two to two and a half hours for the 3.5-mile circular route. Additional time may be needed for breaks, photography, busy scrambling sections or the boat journey from Keswick.

Q: When is the best time to walk Cat Bells?

Cat Bells can be walked throughout the year in suitable conditions, although spring through autumn usually provides the most accessible weather. It is extremely popular, so early mornings, late afternoons and weekdays are generally quieter than summer weekends.

Q: What should I wear for the Cat Bells walk?

Wear walking shoes or hiking boots with good grip and carry waterproof clothing and an additional warm layer. Conditions can change quickly, and the rocky sections become more difficult when wet, icy or affected by strong winds.

Cat Bells

Region: Lake District National Park, Cumbria

Places To Stay: Keswick is the best base for this walk, full of cosy pubs, walkers’ cafes and local charm. Book a room or cottage in advance, especially in peak season: Keswick accommodation | Lake District stays.
Looking for more Lake District walks? Try Old Man of Coniston, Scafell Pike, Helvellyn, Buttermere

Cat Bells may not be one of the highest fells in the Lake District, but few walks deliver so much reward in such a short distance. Rising above the western shore of Derwentwater, this instantly recognisable fell offers a classic Lakeland ridge walk with sweeping views towards Keswick, Skiddaw, Blencathra, Borrowdale and the surrounding mountains.

The route is short, yet it still includes steep climbs, an airy summit ridge and a few enjoyable rocky sections that give it a real sense of adventure. Easily reached from Hawes End or by taking the Keswick Launch across Derwentwater, Cat Bells is an excellent choice for families, first-time fell walkers and anyone looking for one of the best short walks in the Lake District.

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Getting There: Directions, GPX and App Link

Start point: Hawes End car park (limited spaces), postcode: CA12 5UE
Or take the Keswick Launch ferry from Keswick to Hawse End Landing Stage
Parking: Google Maps link to Hawes End car park
GPX: Download the GPX file here to use on your devices.
You can also view and follow this route on my Outdooractive and Komoot profiles
Avoid the early start – find accommodation near Keswick

Hike Profile

Distance: 3.5 miles / 5.6 km (circular)
Duration: 2 – 2.5 hours
Highest point: 451m / 1,480ft (Cat Bells summit)
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate – short, sharp ascent and a little light scrambling
Route conditions: Well-trodden paths and grassy trails. Grippy walking shoes or boots recommended.

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Hike Description

The Cat Bells circular walk begins near Hawes End on the western shore of Derwentwater. Roadside parking is available in the surrounding area, although spaces are limited and the route can become extremely busy during weekends, school holidays and periods of fine weather. One of the most enjoyable ways to reach the start is by taking the Keswick Launch across Derwentwater, turning the walk into a memorable half-day adventure before you have even begun climbing.

From Hawes End, the path rises almost immediately towards Skelgill Bank. The opening climb is steep in places, but the height is gained quickly and the views soon begin to open behind you. Derwentwater stretches out below, with Keswick at its northern end and the broad slopes of Skiddaw rising beyond the town. Even at this early stage, the scenery feels far more dramatic than the modest height of Cat Bells might suggest.

As you continue towards Skelgill Bank, the route passes a memorial plaque dedicated to Thomas Arthur Leonard. Leonard was an important figure in the development of organised outdoor holidays and helped establish co-operative walking trips that encouraged ordinary working people to experience the countryside. The plaque is a small but interesting reminder of the Lake District’s long connection with walking, access and outdoor recreation.

The path then follows the broad ridge towards Cat Bells. Although the route is straightforward in good weather, there are several rocky steps and short scrambling sections along the way. These are generally manageable and add an enjoyable sense of adventure, although care is needed when the rock is wet or icy. Less confident walkers can take their time and use their hands where necessary, while families should supervise younger children closely on the steeper sections.

The views become increasingly impressive as you gain height. Derwentwater lies far below, broken up by its wooded islands, while the mountains surrounding Borrowdale rise ahead. Across the water, Skiddaw and Blencathra dominate the northern skyline, and on clear days you can see deep into the central Lake District. The ridge is exposed enough to feel exciting without being excessively narrow, which is one reason Cat Bells has become such a popular introduction to Lakeland fell walking.

At 451 metres, the summit of Cat Bells is relatively low by Lake District standards, but the panorama is outstanding. The summit provides an excellent place to pause, although it can become crowded during busy periods. From here, the view stretches over Derwentwater and Keswick to the north, Borrowdale to the south and the higher fells of the Newlands Valley to the west.

The route continues south from the summit, descending along the ridge towards Hause Gate. This section is steep and rocky in places, so it is worth taking your time, particularly after rain. The views remain superb throughout the descent, with the deep valley of Borrowdale ahead and the slopes falling sharply towards the lake.

At Hause Gate, the route leaves the high ridge and turns back towards Derwentwater. The character of the walk changes completely here. Instead of exposed ridgeline paths, the return follows a gentler trail across the lower eastern slopes of Cat Bells. This section forms part of the Allerdale Ramble and provides a relaxing contrast to the steeper climbing earlier in the walk.

The path undulates above the woodland and shoreline, offering frequent glimpses across Derwentwater. Depending on the season, the lower slopes may be covered with bracken, bluebells or autumn colour. The route gradually curves northwards beneath the ridge you crossed earlier, eventually returning towards Hawes End and the starting point.

Although Cat Bells is a relatively short walk, it feels like a complete mountain experience. It includes a steep ascent, a scenic ridge, light scrambling, an impressive summit and a peaceful lower-level return. That combination makes it ideal for walkers with limited time, families with older children, people beginning to explore the Lake District fells or experienced hikers looking for a shorter route with exceptional views.

Its popularity means that an early start is highly recommended, particularly during summer and at weekends. In quieter conditions, however, Cat Bells fully deserves its reputation as one of the finest short walks in the Lake District.