A firm family favourite, hikes to Catbells are deservedly popular. This is arguably Lakeland’s most iconic mini-mountain, its summit a gorgeous symmetrical hump above the shores of Derwent Water. The …

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Lake District National Park

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Location: Above Derwent, Allerdale, Cumbria, North West England, England, United Kingdom

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Tips

Dan Hobson

October 17, 2018

Hiking

The hike along Catbells is extremely popular — and for good reason. The walk is absolutely classic; fun terrain, spectacular views, lots of places to stop for picnics. In high season, it's unlikely that you'll be alone on the top. However, if you are in the northern lakes, you simply must enjoy the splendour of the Catbells. The name 'Catbells' may have come from the old English phrase 'cat's bield' — a wild cat's shelter — and is possibly from days gone by when wild cats still roamed these fells.

Tom

June 18, 2019

Hiking

Most hikers no to always look back when you can, this is one of those views you wont want to miss, looking over Keswick with Skiddaw or Blencathra as a back drop, along with Derwent water.. Priceless..

Trail Magazine

December 13, 2019

Hiking

A firm family favourite, Cat Bells is a classic Lakeland outing for young, old and everyone in-between. Sweeping aesthetically above Derwent Water with a distinctive profile, it is a little fell with big features: a taste of scrambling, a domed summit and mind-boggling views of the Borrowdale valley.

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Best routes to Catbells Summit

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1. Cat Bells & Derwent Water loop — Lake District National Park

7.09km

02:27

360m

Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Moderate

4.8

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2. Derwent Water Ferry & Catbells loop from Keswick

14.3km

04:20

410m

420m

Hike the Derwent Water Ferry & Catbells loop from Keswick for moderate adventure, stunning views, and a scenic ferry ride across Derwent Wat

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Moderate

4.6

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407

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3. Newlands Horseshoe from Little Town — Lake District National Park

17.2km

06:53

960m

Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.

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Hard

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Informations

Elevation 470 m

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yes

Wheelchair access

Dog Friendly

yes

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Take Me There

Location: Above Derwent, Allerdale, Cumbria, North West England, England, United Kingdom

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Catbells Summit

1. Cat Bells & Derwent Water loop — Lake District National Park

2. Derwent Water Ferry & Catbells loop from Keswick

3. Newlands Horseshoe from Little Town — Lake District National Park

Other Popular Places to Check Out

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