The North Western Fells

Cat Bells

451m | 1480ft

Cat Bells is a fell in the English Lake District in the county of Cumbria. It has a height of 451 metres and is one of the most popular fells in the area. It is situated on the western shore of Derwentwater within 3 miles of the busy tourist town of Keswick.

Popular Routes

Catbells from Hawse End
Distance: 6.5km
Difficulty: Moderate
The classic and most popular route up Catbells starts from Hawse End and follows a well-marked path along the ridge to the summit. This route includes some mild scrambling and offers stunning views over Derwentwater.
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Catbells Circular from Portinscale
Distance: 9.5km
Difficulty: Moderate
A circular walk starting in Portinscale, this route climbs steadily through woodland and open fellside to the summit, returning via the Cumbria Way and the shores of Derwentwater.
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Catbells via Derwentwater Launch
Distance: 7.0km
Difficulty: Moderate
A scenic approach using the Derwentwater Launch from Keswick to Hawse End. From there, the walk follows the classic ridge route to the summit and returns via the lakeshore path.
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Parking

Hawse End Car Park
Small National Trust car park near the base of Catbells. Fills up quickly, especially in summer.
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Keswick Central Car Park
Large car park in Keswick, ideal if using the Derwentwater Launch to start your walk.
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Portinscale Village Parking
Limited roadside parking available in the village; be considerate to residents.
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Public Transport

Regular bus services from Keswick connect to Portinscale and the western shore of Derwentwater, with seasonal stops near Hawse End.
Check the Stagecoach Cumbria website for up-to-date bus timetables.
The Derwentwater Launch provides boat services from Keswick to Hawse End, ideal for walkers starting the ridge route.
Operates seasonally; check the Keswick Launch website for sailing times.

Closest Towns

Keswick
A lively market town on the shores of Derwentwater with a wide range of outdoor shops, accommodations, and dining options.
Portinscale
A small village just outside Keswick, offering peaceful accommodation and easy access to Catbells.

Pubs & Restaurants

The Chalet Tearooms & Restaurant
A cozy café offering breakfasts, lunches, and cakes, popular with walkers heading to Catbells.
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The Farmers Arms
Traditional Lakeland pub with hearty food, real ales, and a relaxed atmosphere.
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The Dog and Gun
Famous for its Hungarian goulash, this pub offers a warm atmosphere and a great selection of beers.
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Fellpack
Contemporary restaurant with creative, healthy dishes and a strong walker-friendly vibe.
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Good to know

Though lower in elevation, Catbells is exposed and can be windy; check the weather before setting off.
The ridge path includes a few rocky sections with mild scrambling; children and less confident walkers should take care.
Catbells is one of the most popular walks in the Lake District—arrive early to avoid crowds and ensure parking.
Mobile phone coverage is generally good on this route, but always let someone know your plans if walking alone.