“Catbells is one of the great favourites, a family fell where grandmothers and infants can climb the heights together,a place beloved”
A Wainwright
Catbells, one of the most iconic mountains in the Lake District and standing at less than 1500ft Catbells is well within the range of almost all fellwalkers.
A shorter walk but a great summit to watch the sun rise over Derwentwater.
“Words cannot adequately describe the rare charm of Catbells, nor it's ravishing view”
A Wainwright
Starting at the northern tip of the Catbells ridge we climb up over Skelgill Bank, a well made path climbs this northern ridge of Catbells, until a gentler section is reached above Skelgill Bank.
Eventually the gradient increases again as we climb towards the summit of Catbells, this time the path is a little rougher underfoot but soon we are at the summit of Catbells, with some of the most magnificent 360 degree views.
From Catbells we descend to the south, dropping down to Hause Gate, and then taking the path east, dropping down towards Brackenburn and then through the trees to the Derwentwater lakeshore path.
The path now takes us north along the lakeshore through Brandelhow Woods back to the start point.
Each participant will be required to bring suitable equipment for their chosen event, please see Kit List tab above.
Where to meet: Catbells Car Park
Postcode: CA12 5UE (approximate)
Grid Reference: NY 247 212
Directions
From Keswick: Leave Keswick on the A66, towards Workington and Cockermouth, turn left into the village of Portinscale and follow the road through the village, continue on this road until it reaches the Catbells Car Park, there is some parking on either side of the road here or to the right, just beyond the Cattle Grid. We will meet by the Cattle Grid.
Bus Services
We meet for this walk by the bus stop.
The 77/77a bus runs between Keswick and Buttermere over Honister Pass during summer months (Easter to October Half Term).
There is also a boat service from Keswick, the Keswick Launch, the jetty at Hawes End is only a few minutes walk from the meet point.
Stagecoach bus timetables can be viewed here
Keswick Launch timetables can be viewed here