Cat Bells: Iconic Fell Overlooking Derwentwater near Keswick
Accessible and iconic fell near Keswick offering panoramic views over Derwentwater and the Lake District’s stunning landscape.
Cat Bells is a beloved fell in England’s Lake District, rising 451 meters above Derwentwater near Keswick. Known for its accessible yet invigorating hiking routes, it offers stunning panoramic views of the lake, surrounding fells, and the Cumbrian countryside. Popular for day hikes, Cat Bells combines natural beauty with a rich local heritage and is reachable by scenic boat rides and bus services, making it a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts.
A brief summary to Catbells
- Keswick, GB
- Duration: 2 to 4 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Arrive early at Hawse End to secure limited free parking or consider using the Keswick Launch boat for a scenic, car-free approach.
- Wear sturdy footwear as the ascent includes some steep sections and minor scrambling over rocky terrain.
- Check seasonal bus services like the 77A for eco-friendly transport options connecting Keswick and Cat Bells.
- Bring waterproof clothing and layers as Lake District weather can change quickly, even in summer.
- Combine your hike with a lakeside walk around Derwentwater or a visit to Keswick for a full day of exploration.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the seasonal 77A bus service from Keswick to Cat Bells, operating April to October, with a journey time of approximately 15-20 minutes. Tickets cost around £2 per single fare, offering an eco-friendly and convenient way to reach the trailhead.
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Boat
Use the Keswick Launch boat service from Keswick town center to Hawse End jetty near Cat Bells. The boat ride lasts about 20 minutes and offers discounted tickets when combined with Park and Sail parking options.
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Car
Drive to Gutherscale or Hawse End laybys near Cat Bells for free parking, but spaces are very limited and fill early, especially on weekends and holidays. Parking large vehicles or motorhomes near the trailhead is not recommended.
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Walking
Walk from Keswick to Cat Bells via public footpaths and country lanes, a pleasant 4 km (2.5 miles) route taking around 1-1.5 hours. The terrain is mostly gentle with some uphill sections, suitable for moderately fit walkers.
Catbells location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Catbells
A Distinctive Landmark of the Lake District
Cat Bells is a modest but striking fell standing 451 meters (1,480 feet) tall on the western shore of Derwentwater, near the market town of Keswick in Cumbria. Its name is thought to derive from "Cat Bields," meaning shelter of the wild cat, reflecting the area’s natural history. The fell forms the last summit on the ridge that separates Derwentwater from the Newlands Valley, characterized by two distinct summit steps with the lower known as Skelgill Bank. Its prominence and accessible height make it a defining feature of the Borrowdale landscape.Engaging Trails and Scenic Rewards
Cat Bells is renowned for its approachable yet varied hiking routes suitable for a wide range of walkers, including families and those new to fell walking. The most popular ascent begins at Hawse End, where visitors can start a steep but manageable climb that includes some minor scrambling. The summit rewards hikers with breathtaking 360-degree views encompassing Derwentwater, Keswick, and the surrounding fells. Descents often pass through woodland and lakeside paths, offering a diverse walking experience that blends open fell terrain with tranquil forest and water vistas.Access and Sustainable Travel Options
Parking near Cat Bells is limited, with only a few laybys such as Gutherscale offering free spaces, which fill early on busy days. To alleviate congestion and protect the environment, many visitors opt for eco-friendly transport options. The Keswick Launch boat provides a scenic route from Keswick to Hawse End, the primary trailhead, allowing walkers to combine a lakeside cruise with their hike. Additionally, the seasonal 77A bus service connects Keswick to Cat Bells and surrounding areas, encouraging car-free visits and reducing pressure on local roads.Natural Environment and Visitor Experience
The fell’s natural environment is a mosaic of open grassland, rocky outcrops, and pockets of woodland, supporting diverse flora and fauna typical of the Lake District’s upland habitats. The walk’s moderate difficulty and stunning vistas make it a favorite for day trips and weekend getaways. The area’s tranquility and scenic beauty invite mindfulness and nature appreciation, while the presence of occasional scrambles adds an element of adventure. The proximity to Keswick ensures access to amenities and a vibrant local culture.Historical and Cultural Significance
Cat Bells holds a cherished place in Lake District heritage, symbolizing the region’s blend of natural grandeur and human engagement with the landscape. Its name and paths echo centuries of local use, from shepherding to modern recreational hiking. The fell’s popularity has inspired numerous guidebooks and walking routes, cementing its status as a cultural icon within the national park. Visitors often pause at the summit to reflect on the panoramic views that have inspired artists and writers for generations.Planning Your Visit
To make the most of a visit to Cat Bells, early arrival is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure parking or boat tickets. Weather in the Lake District can change rapidly, so suitable clothing and footwear are essential. The combination of natural beauty, accessible trails, and sustainable transport options ensures that Cat Bells remains a rewarding destination for all who seek to experience the heart of the English Lakes.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae.
18.5 km
Discover the rich history and stunning landscapes of Hardknott Roman Fort & Thermae, a remarkable fortress in the heart of the Lake District.
Eskdale Mill
19.9 km
Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.
The Bridge House
20.1 km
Explore the historic Bridge House in Ambleside, a stunning 17th-century riverside gem in the heart of the Lake District's breathtaking landscapes.
Ambleside Roman Fort
20.8 km
Experience the rich history at Ambleside Roman Fort, a key archaeological site in the heart of the Lake District, offering stunning views and engaging exhibits.
Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
21.5 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.
National Trust - Tarn Hows
21.8 km
Discover the serene beauty of Tarn Hows, a nature reserve in the Lake District with stunning landscapes and tranquil walking trails.
National Trust - Wray
22.9 km
Explore Wray Castle, a Victorian gem on Lake Windermere offering stunning views, rich history, and beautiful gardens in the heart of the Lake District.
Brockhole on Windermere
23.8 km
Explore Brockhole on Windermere, a vibrant visitor centre in the heart of the Lake District offering outdoor adventures, art, and stunning gardens.
National Trust - Steam Yacht Gondola
23.8 km
Experience the beauty of the Lake District aboard the historic Steam Yacht Gondola, a scenic cruise that blends history and nature.
The Cockpit Stone Circle
23.9 km
Explore The Cockpit Stone Circle, an ancient historical site near Penrith, where history and natural beauty converge in a tranquil setting.
National Trust - Townend
23.9 km
Explore the picturesque Townend, a historic farmhouse and garden in the Lake District, where heritage and nature meet in a beautiful setting.
Latterbarrow
24.1 km
Explore Latterbarrow: Experience breathtaking views and refreshing hikes in the heart of the Lake District, perfect for nature lovers.
Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens
24.3 km
Explore the enchanting Dalemain Mansion & Historic Gardens, a perfect blend of history, art, and stunning landscapes in the heart of Penrith.
Holehird Gardens
25.3 km
Explore the enchanting Holehird Gardens in the Lake District, a floral paradise offering stunning views and diverse plant collections for all nature lovers.
Windermere and Troutbeck
25.9 km
Historic Lakeland stone cottage with expansive gardens and stunning fells views, nestled at the foot of Troutbeck Valley near Windermere village.
Unmissable attractions to see
Brandlehow Park
1.0 km
A peaceful National Trust park on Derwentwater’s quiet western shore, perfect for lakeside strolls, picnics, and views of Catbells and the Borrowdale fells.
Newlands Valley
1.1 km
Discover the tranquil beauty and iconic hiking trails of Newlands Valley, a serene escape nestled in the heart of the Lake District near Keswick.
Derwentwater
1.8 km
Explore Derwentwater’s breathtaking lake, dramatic fells, and charming Keswick shores in England’s iconic Lake District.
Goldscope Mine
2.0 km
Explore the historic copper and lead mining legacy nestled in the scenic Lake District’s Newlands Valley.
Lodore Falls
2.4 km
Experience the breathtaking cascade of Lodore Falls nestled in the heart of the Lake District’s Borrowdale Valley.
Surprise View
2.5 km
Breathtaking panoramic views over Derwent Water and Skiddaw from a peaceful, accessible Lake District vantage point.
Ashness Bridge
2.6 km
Historic stone packhorse bridge with iconic Lake District views over Derwentwater, nestled in Keswick’s scenic hiking landscape.
Friars Crag
3.1 km
A short stroll from Keswick leads to one of the Lake District’s most iconic viewpoints, where Derwentwater unfolds beneath dramatic fells and literary history lingers by the shore.
Bowder Stone
3.6 km
A towering 2,000-ton glacial boulder steeped in Norse legend and Lake District history, inviting climbers and nature lovers alike.
Hope Park
3.8 km
A beautifully maintained, accessible park in Keswick offering vibrant gardens, recreational golf, bird watching, and a welcoming café near Derwentwater.
Keswick Alhambra Cinema
4.2 km
A charming century-old cinema blending vintage charm with modern projection, nestled in Keswick’s vibrant town centre.
Puzzling Place
4.2 km
Discover mind-bending optical illusions and interactive exhibits in Keswick’s captivating Puzzling Place.
Keswick Methodist Church
4.3 km
A welcoming Methodist church in Keswick offering spiritual sanctuary and community connection in the heart of the Lake District.
Keswick War Memorial
4.3 km
Explore the Keswick War Memorial, a serene tribute to bravery set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Lake District.
Derwent Pencil Museum
4.4 km
Explore the world’s pencil heritage through immersive exhibits, rare artifacts, and creative workshops at Keswick’s iconic Derwent Pencil Museum.
Essential places to dine
The Cottage In The Wood
5.6 km
Michelin-starred fine dining nestled in Whinlatter Forest with cozy rooms and stunning views of the Lake District’s Skiddaw mountains.
Herdwick Willy’s Bar & Bistro
13.1 km
A relaxed bistro-bar nestled in Bassenthwaite’s scenic Croft Holiday Park, serving fresh pizzas and light fare with countryside views.
New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale
14.3 km
Rustic hotel and lively bar nestled in Langdale Valley, perfect for walkers seeking comfort and community in the Lake District.
Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale
14.3 km
A welcoming climbers’ inn with traditional charm, hearty fare, and stunning mountain views in the heart of Great Langdale.
The Inn on the Lake
14.5 km
Elegant lakeside retreat blending Victorian charm with modern comfort on Ullswater’s scenic shores in the Lake District.
The Jumble Room
15.4 km
Vibrant bohemian restaurant in Grasmere serving creative international dishes with local Cumbrian produce in a lively, eclectic setting.
Cockermouth Brewers Fayre
15.9 km
A welcoming family-friendly pub and restaurant in Cockermouth offering classic British dishes, hearty breakfasts, and a spacious beer garden with countryside views.
Stove Restaurant & Bar
16.9 km
Relaxed dining with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes in the heart of the Lake District’s Great Langdale.
The Wild Duck Inn
19.3 km
Experience the charm of The Wild Duck Inn: where American flavors meet local hospitality in Branthwaite.
Dodds Restaurant
20.2 km
Authentic Italian and modern European cuisine served with warmth in the heart of Ambleside’s scenic Lake District.
The Priest Hole Restaurant
20.3 km
Historic charm meets hearty British cuisine in the heart of Ambleside, with locally sourced dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.
Lucy's on a plate
20.3 km
A vibrant English bistro in Ambleside blending local flavors with eclectic style and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Old Stamp House Restaurant
20.3 km
Experience a Michelin-starred culinary journey through Cumbria’s rich heritage in the historic heart of Ambleside.
Lake Road Kitchen
20.4 km
An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside blending Nordic flair with Lake District’s finest local produce.
Rampsbeck Restaurant
21.0 km
Contemporary British dining with lake views, seasonal Cumbrian produce, and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere in Watermillock.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
CONQUER Trading Post
4.1 km
Discover authentic Lake District spirit through unique patches, crafts, and gifts at Keswick’s vibrant Conquer Trading Post.
Love the Lakes Keswick
4.2 km
Discover unique Lake District gifts and local crafts in the heart of Keswick’s charming market town.
Booths, Keswick
4.2 km
A premium supermarket and café in Keswick, offering local Lake District produce, fresh counters, and community-focused shopping.
Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd
4.2 km
Step into a storybook world at Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd, Keswick’s enchanting toy shop and café inspired by Beatrix Potter’s beloved characters.
Alternative
4.2 km
Discover original gifts and Lake District treasures at Alternative, Keswick’s beloved family-run gift and interiors shop.
RockShop
20.2 km
Discover unique gifts and delightful toys at RockShop in Ambleside, a must-visit for family-friendly shopping and local crafts.
The Barn
23.2 km
Discover locally sourced gifts, quality outdoor gear, and delightful treats at The Barn in scenic Pooley Bridge.
Dunmail Park Shopping Centre
26.5 km
Discover the vibrant Dunmail Park Shopping Centre in Workington, where shopping, dining, and entertainment come together in harmony.
Booths, Windermere
27.1 km
Explore Booths Windermere: a premier supermarket and café blending local flavors, quality produce, and community spirit in a historic setting.
Little Whims
27.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local charm at Little Whims, a cozy and creative gift shop in Whitehaven’s historic Market Place.
Forget Me Not
27.2 km
Discover unique gifts and local treasures at Forget Me Not, Windermere’s charming boutique in the heart of the Lake District.
The Original Man Shop
27.8 km
A distinctive men's gift and fashion boutique offering style and charm in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Pretty Things
27.8 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and warm hospitality at Pretty Things, a charming boutique in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.
Herdy Bowness
27.8 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
Tesco Express
27.8 km
Your convenient, friendly supermarket stop in Bowness-on-Windermere, open daily with fresh local produce and essentials for every visit.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Ritson's Bar (Wasdale Head Inn)
12.5 km
Historic mountain pub at the foot of England’s highest peak, offering real ales, hearty food, and stunning Lake District views.
Ramblers Bar and the Candleroom
14.5 km
A charming lakeside pub and restaurant in Glenridding with scenic views, friendly service, and a welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Castle Bar
16.2 km
Historic 16th-century pub in Cockermouth with award-winning design, local ales, sunny beer garden, and vibrant sports bar atmosphere.
Wainwrights' Inn
16.6 km
A traditional Lakeland pub in Chapel Stile offering hearty local fare, fine ales, and a warm welcome near the Langdale Estate.
The Talbot Bar
19.2 km
Cozy Lakeland pub with hearty traditional fare, local ales, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere near Ambleside.
Golden Rule
20.1 km
A historic Ambleside pub offering traditional ales, cozy fires, and a welcoming atmosphere away from the tourist bustle.
The Vault
20.3 km
Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.
The Lily Bar
20.4 km
Ambleside’s independent bar blending rustic charm, local ales, live music, and quality dining in the heart of the Lake District.
The Oddfellows Arms Caldbeck
21.4 km
Discover the culinary delights of The Oddfellows Arms in Caldbeck, where traditional pub fare meets innovative gastropub cuisine in a charming setting.
The Pooley Bridge Inn, Pooley Bridge
23.1 km
Traditional Lakeland inn with cozy rooms, hearty pub fare, and lakeside charm in the heart of Pooley Bridge village.
Queens Head, Troutbeck
23.3 km
Historic Lake District pub and inn offering hearty fare, local ales, and cosy rooms with stunning Troutbeck Valley views.
Lake District Cocktail Co.
24.7 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting in the stunning Lake District with Lake District Cocktail Co., a mobile catering service that brings the bar to you.
The Windermere Speakeasy
27.0 km
A cozy, versatile cocktail bar and eatery in Windermere offering creative drinks, sharing platters, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
27.1 km
A lively craft beer bar in Windermere with quirky decor, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.
The Crafty Baa Windermere
27.1 km
A vibrant, quirky bar and tapas spot in Windermere, famed for its eclectic décor, craft drinks, and lively, welcoming atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Windermere Social Club
27.4 km
A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.
Wheelhouse Nightclub
27.9 km
Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.
The loose moose
28.9 km
A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.
Secret Carlisle
39.0 km
Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.
Club Britannia
39.2 km
A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.
Carlisle R A O B Club
39.4 km
Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.
Black Box Music Institute
39.4 km
An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.
secret bridge
42.6 km
Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.
The Lounge C9
50.6 km
Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.
Manhattans Nightclub
50.7 km
Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.
Hollywood Nightclub
50.7 km
Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.
The Five Arches
61.4 km
Experience the charm of The Five Arches pub in Dumfries - a cozy spot for local brews and delightful fare.
The Moorcock Inn
61.5 km
Discover the charm of The Moorcock Inn in Sedbergh, where cozy accommodations meet delicious local cuisine amidst breathtaking Yorkshire Dales views.
Railway Social Club
62.2 km
A friendly, community-focused social club in Dumfries offering affordable drinks, lively events, and a welcoming atmosphere near the town centre.
Dickies Bar
62.3 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and diverse drink selection at Dickies Bar in Dumfries, the perfect spot for relaxation and socializing.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Adventurous
- Tranquil
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
- Sunrise Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Photowalk
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly