Catbells (451m) – Walk Guide & GPX | An Easy Lake District Classic

Last updated: July 2026

There are a few fells in the Lake District that have obtained sticker status – the kind you’ll see plastered across water bottles and rucksacks (guilty). Catbells is one of those fells; its unassuming stature (451m) holding its own against the greats of Scafell Pike and Helvellyn, despite being barely half their height.

Unlike Scafell Pike, Catbells is an easy half-day route, making it a perfect option when there’s a brief gap in the weather. We climbed Catbells in December as a more relaxed day between two bigger days on Skiddaw’s north-west ridge and Scafell Pike. Whilst the day started dry and clear, it soon turned into a traipse in the rain – which is, funny enough, much the same experience I remember from climbing the same hill in August as a kid.

Skiddaw, Derwentwater and Keswick from Catbells

Despite the predictably unpredictable Lake District weather, it's easy to see why Catbells is a classic, with great views over Derwentwater and even a bit of scrambling sprinkled in to keep things exciting. Even in December, the route was fairly busy, with a tour group stopping at every opportunity to take photos - but who can blame them? Catbells is many people’s first fell, and a fitting gateway drug to the Lake District.

Catbells Route Guide - At a Glance

Catbells is one of the most recognisable fells in the Lake District; its bumpy ridge on the shores of Derwentwater is adorned on the front of many a postcard. At 451m, it is definitely a hill rather than a mountain, but punches well above its weight, with panoramic views across the Newlands Valley and back over to Keswick, framed by the bulk of Skiddaw. The route is a favourite of beginners and experienced walkers alike, thanks to its straightforward route and short sections of easy scrambling. Unsurprisingly, it can be expected to be very busy on a summer’s day.

The Newlands Valley from Catbells

Overall rating: ★★★☆☆ - A Lake District classic for a reason, but it can be busy

Difficulty: ★★☆☆☆ - Often quoted as one for the whole family, there is some use of hands on the way up, but this is never exposed. The nearby Latrigg would be better if you’re uncomfortable using your hands to stabilise yourself. 

Start point: Newlands Gate

Distance: 6km

Elevation: 400m

Time: 2 hours

Gear needed: Standard hiking gear

Need to know: The walk can be extended along the ridge over Maiden Moor and High Spy, right up to the  Newlands Horseshoe, for the more adventurous. We initially planned to head up to High Spy but were deterred by the heavy rain – the multitude of paths makes it easy to change plans when conditions change. 

Planning a Trip? - Some Practicalities

GPX Route

This GPX route was recorded by us during our walk (as is reflected on the 3D route map). Conditions on the hill can change, so treat this as a rough guide rather than a precise plan. From the car park at the start, there are clear paths – this is a great route to get away from a screen and enjoy the route. Always prepare carefully and follow local safety guidance.​

Getting to the Start

Map of start point above - click "Open in Maps " to open Google/Apple Maps and get directions

From Keswick, head west towards Portinscale and follow the road as it runs parallel with Derwentwater’s west bank. There are a couple of small car parks at the start of the route, with room for a handful of cars. We climbed Catbells on a rainy December day and still struggled to find a car parking space. Early starts are essential in the summer months if driving.

How Difficult is Catbells?

The grassy summit ridge

Catbells is one of the most popular fells in the Lake District - partly due to its convenient location close to Keswick but also because it is one of the most accessible. This is a great introduction to The Lakes, and it is many a walker’s first fell.

There is a small amount of scrambling early on the ridge up to Catbells, but this is brief and straightforward. However, in wet conditions the rocks are slippery, so bear this in mind if you are less confident on your feet (or hands!). It goes without saying that the same is true in snow or ice.

Best Time to Climb Catbells

Catbells’ slight elevation means it's climbable year-round, but snow/ice on the ground and stormy weather on any given day would make it less than ideal.

Catbells Weather

The Lake District weather is famously changeable – it is not unusual to experience 4 seasons in the space of a few hours. Just because it’s sunny when you set off doesn’t mean it will stay that way. It’s always worth carrying at least a waterproof jacket (ideally trousers too) in The Lakes, even in summer. Catbells’ ascent is short, with lots of options to shorten the route if you initially planned a longer one, as we did.

As one of the Lakes’ shorter fells, Catbells is a strong choice for when the higher fells have their heads in the clouds or when the weather is less favourable.

Drenched

Related Trips