On my trip to the Lake District this summer, I had a short weekend away not far from Keswick. Because of how close our accommodation was, we decided to start off our first day hiking Catbells! The Lake District has no shortage of fantastic walks, and I honestly thought that this was one of the best ones I’ve done so far.

Catbells is 451 meters high, and located on the western shore of Derwent Water in the northern part of the Lake District. There are so many different ways to hike this fell—which is one of Alfred Wainwright’s classic 214 peaks (also known as a Wainwright). Depending on where you start and which route you take, you might do it in a very different time than me.

The most popular start to the walk is Hawe’s End, where there is room for car parking. Although, I have read that it can fill up fast as this walk is so popular. Luckily, we were staying at the gorgeous Ellas Crag Guest House, and we could do the walk directly from our doorstep!

We took the road from our accommodation towards Skelgill, and walked through Skelgill Farm. From there we got onto a path that followed a stone wall the entire way across. We then took a very steep path directly up to the ridge. The views over Derwent Water when we finally topped out on the ridge were amazing. But they kept getting even better as the walk went on!

It was another fairly steep climb to get to the actual summit of Catbells. This went through two rather intimidating-looking rocky sections. It was a bit of a scramble in places, but nothing difficult or technical. There were minor paths to either side that made it possible to avoid most of the scrambling. But don’t be worried if you’re not up for a scramble! It was only three or four steps out of both rocky sections that you needed to use your hands.

Finally, I got to the summit of Catbells! The views were just incredible.

The weather could not have been better. It was cloudy on our way up, but by the time we summitted the sun came out to play for a warm, sunny, summer day.

My parents did this walk with Adam and I. This was their first ever Wainwright!!!

It took us approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes from leaving Ellas Crag Guest House to reaching the summit. We spent just over 15 minutes relaxing at the summit (and I took loads of photos, of course).

We then took the path down to Newlands Valley, and finished off the walk following the same path along the stone wall back to the road. The views here were phenomenal as well!

It took us literally 3 hours exactly (to the minute!) from setting off from our accommodation to arriving back. If you do this walk from Hawe’s End, most people tend to say it’s about 2-3 hours (depending on your pace).

Catbells is one of the most popular walks in the Lake District, mainly as it’s not all that high (only 451 meters!), and as it’s centrally located, and so close to the main hub of Keswick. That being said, it was a steep climb at certain stages. The rocky bit did require a bit of scrambling.

You should come prepared for this hike with the proper gear. I recommend sturdy hiking boots with ankle support. Even if it’s not supposed to rain or doesn’t look like it will, bring a waterproof jacket and pants, and plenty of layers. I generally take a buff (and/or hat) and gloves on all hikes, even in summer. The weather can change frequently in the UK and especially in the Lake District (and especially when you’re higher up and more exposed!!). So come prepared for the worst. Make sure you have plenty of water and snacks. While the paths are very clear and easy to spot with a blind eye in good weather, I’d recommend bringing the OS map for the area as well.

Planning Your Trip

I stayed at Ellas Crag Guest House, which was the perfect base for doing this walk! You can find them on Booking.com, but they offer better rates if you book direct through their website. You can also search for nearby hostels on Hostelworld, or sign up to and search accommodation on Airbnb here! The nearest train station is Penrith, where you can get a bus to Keswick. I always recommend booking train tickets in advance through Trainline. However, having your own car is definitely the easiest way to get around the Lake District.

The most convenient airport to the Lake District is currently Manchester Airport. You can also look for flights to Glasgow (or Edinburgh) airports too. I always book my flights through Skyscanner. Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

Catbells is a fantastic walk, with amazing views around the Lake District! While the hike is moderate in difficulty level, it is definitely worth spending a morning or afternoon (or evening!) walking up Catbells. Don’t miss this walk in the Lake District!

Have you hiked up Catbells? Or anywhere else in the Lake District?

You might like my other posts:

The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide To England’s Lake District

The Lake District: Keswick And Beyond

Hiking Scafell Pike: England’s Highest Mountain

Hiking Up Helvellyn In The Lake District

Hiking The Old Man Of Coniston In The Lake District

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