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Mountain · Keswick, Inglaterra
Catbells
The 451‑metre fell on the western shore of Derwentwater, one of the most popular climbs in the Lake District, with views over the lake, Keswick and the Borrowdale valley.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Catbells
Catbells is a 451‑metre fell on the western shore of Derwentwater, with a distinctive profile visible from afar and two summits in succession. It is one of the most sought‑after mountain walks in the Lake District because it is short, with a steady climb, and rewards the effort with wide views: Derwentwater with its islands, Keswick, Skiddaw to the north and the Borrowdale valley to the south.
The most common route starts at Hawes End, near the pleasure‑boat jetty, and climbs the north ridge, with some rocky sections where hands are used for support, reaching the summit in about 1 hour. The return can be the same way or by descending via the Hause Gate col to the lakeshore, forming a circuit of about 6 km and 2½ to 3 hours.
The name likely comes from an old den of wild cats. Beatrix Potter set the story of Mrs Tiggy‑Winkle, the hedgehog washerwoman, on Catbells; the character lived behind a door on the slope. The Newlands valley to the west features in other of her tales.
The path is very popular and well maintained, but the summit is exposed and windy; bring a jacket and proper walking boots. Hawes End car park is small and fills early.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 2.5 to 3 hours for the ridge circuit and return along the lakeshore.
Best time
On a dry, clear day, early in the morning to get parking and fewer people on the ridge. Avoid days of strong wind or fog. In summer, combine it with the Keswick boat to Hawes End.
How to get there
From Keswick, take the Keswick Launch boat to the Hawes End jetty, a 5‑minute walk from the start of the trail; or the local bus from Keswick to Grange in season. By car there are few roadside parking spaces near Hawes End.
Tip
Take the boat to Hawes End, climb the north ridge and descend via Hause Gate to the High Brandelhow jetty, where you catch the boat back to Keswick.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Catbells
Is the climb up Catbells difficult?
It's short and steady, with some rocky sections where you need to use your hands. It's considered a good first mountain in the Lake District.
How long does it take?
About 1 hour to the summit and 2.5–3 hours for the full circuit.
How do you get to the start of the trail?
By boat from Keswick to Hawes End — the simplest way — or by local bus in season.
Does Catbells have a connection to Beatrix Potter?
Yes, she set the story of Mrs Tiggy-Winkle there.