| Catbells |
 Grade - Difficult. 3.5 miles/3 hours/Hawes EndThe miniature mountain of Catbells (1481 ft) packs an impressive punch considering its modest height and is well known as one of the most family friendly Lakeland summits. Once you're at the top you'll be treated to a stupendous outlook accross Derwent Water.
From Hawes End the path crosses a cattle grid and then offers a choice of two trails; the standard path leads straight on or there's an alternative trail a little further along the 'old green road,' which traces a zigzagging course up the fell side. This second path - engineered by Sir John Woodford, a local resident and much-decorated veteran of the Battle of Waterloo - eventually joins the first before the final ascent.
Maps
Use Ordnance Survey Map OL4
Pubs nearby
The Royal Oak
Braithwaite
Cumbria
CA12 5SY
England, UK
T +44(0)17687 78533
F +44(0)17687 78533
E
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The Kings Head
Thirlspot
Cumbria
CA12 4TN
England, UK
T +44 (0)17687 72393
F +44 (0)17687 72309
E
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The traditional starting point up Catbells (thought to be a corruption of the Old Norse cat bield, or wild cat's lair) is at Hawes End on the lake's west side. Parking can be tricky - to arrive hassle free take the Keswick Launch or the 77 bus.
The trail runs over a false summit and a series of small depressions befoew climbing along the spectacular ridge to Catbells' true peak. The summit is a fell-spotters dream; the northern aspect is the most impressive, with views of Skiddaw's twin peaks, flanked by Carl Side and Ullock Pike to the west and Lonscale Fell to the east. Over on the lake's eastern side, you can spot Walla Crag, Bleaberry Fell and High Seat; to the west is the Newlands Valley; while far off to the south is the Borrowdale Valley and the distinctive point of Castle Crag.