The Cat Bells Walk is a walk you must experience. Cat Bells is a fell in the Lake District, county of Cumbria. Situated three miles from Keswick and with a height of 451 metres it provides some stunning views over Derwent Water, Keswick, and the surrounding fells. Once you experience the walk you will understand why it has become one of the most popular walks in the Lake District.
Compared to its neighbours Cat Bells is small. However, what it lacks in height it makes up for it in views. The short, sharp, steep climb is popular with tourists, hiking beginners, and experienced hikers. A lot of parents use the Cat Bell Walks to introduce their children to hillwalking and hiking.
Read The Best Things To Do In The Lake District
The Cat Bells Walk which is about 3.5 miles and starts at the northern tip of the Catbells ridge will take around three hours as a round trip. From the Cat Bells ridge, you then climb up over Skelgill Bank and then climb to the summit of Cat Bells (Catbells). The Cat Bells summit is all rock and has many loose stones.
The stunning 360-degrees views from Cat Bells summit are stunning. You will see Derentwater, Bassenthwaite Lake, and you will also see Newlands Valley. If that is not enough then how about the view of Skiddaw and Keswick which are to the North.
From the summit you will then descend to the south and drop down to the beautiful Derwent Water at Hause Gate, and take the path east, heading towards Brackenburn. From there you will walk through the trees to the lovely Derwentwater Lakeshore path. This path will then take you along the Lakeshore through Brandelhow Woods and guide you towards your starting point.
In 2017, The Cat Bells Walk was voted fourth as Britain’s favourite walk. Another great walk if you are near London, is the London Regent’s Canal walk.
Is Cat Bells Walk Easy?
The route is considered to be one of the easier walks in the UK. A lot of parents take their children to Cat Bells in the Lake District to introduce them to hillwalking and hiking. It is perfect for people of all ages and abilities and is also suitable for dogs.
Read London Regent’s Canal Walks
How long does it take to climb Cat Bells?
Depending on your speed, the Lake District route will take you around 3 to 4 hours.
Is Cat Bells a dangerous walk?
Like with any hill climbing and hiking routes in the Lake District and in Britain, you should always be careful. It is not a particularly high climb, but some parts of the walk are steep. Another thing to note is due to how popular the Lake District walk is, it is quickly becoming eroded. It is important to wear sensible footwear.
What should I take on my Lake District walk?
It is important for any hill climbing walks in the Lake District to be prepared. That includes always wearing suitable footwear. Take with you a map, torch, compass, first aid kit, and a whistle. As well as wearing suitable footwear, you should wear suitable clothing. Before you go on the Cat Bells Walk, make sure you check the weather to make sure it is suitable. The weather in the Lake District can change fast, even in the summer.
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It is also important to take plenty of food and water with you. Please note, although it is a good idea to take a mobile phone with you, don’t rely upon it. Many areas of Cat Bells don’t have a signal.
