Catbells Lake District
Iconic Lake District fell offering stunning panoramic views of Derwentwater and surrounding fells. A rewarding, moderate hike with fun scrambling.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & catch sunrise
Catbells Lake District
Best Time
Beat the crowds & catch sunrise
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic Lake District fell offering stunning panoramic views of Derwentwater and surrounding fells. A rewarding, moderate hike with fun scrambling.
"The views are amazing and well worth the climb. A great starter mountain!"
🚗 Parking is a Challenge
Arrive before 8 AM or be prepared to park further afield or use a farmer's field.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Essential for the rocky paths and scrambling sections. Don't underestimate them!
Quick Facts
Rating
4.9 · 809 reviews
Type
Mountain Peak
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Summit Views of Derwentwater
Summit
Panoramic vistas of Derwentwater, Bassenthwaite Lake, and the surrounding fells. Truly breathtaking!
The Scramble to the Top
Upper slopes
A fun, accessible scramble that adds an element of adventure to the hike. Great for building confidence!
Sunrise or Sunset Spectacle
Summit
Witnessing the sky ablaze with color from the summit is an unforgettable experience. Worth the early start or late finish!
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds on Catbells
Essential Gear for Catbells
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking is a Challenge
Arrive before 8 AM or be prepared to park further afield or use a farmer's field.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Essential for the rocky paths and scrambling sections. Don't underestimate them!
⛴️ Ferry for a Scenic Start
Take the ferry from Keswick for a different perspective and to avoid parking woes.
🍦 Ice Cream Reward
Look out for the ice cream van on your descent – a perfect treat!
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking is a Challenge
Arrive before 8 AM or be prepared to park further afield or use a farmer's field.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
Essential for the rocky paths and scrambling sections. Don't underestimate them!
⛴️ Ferry for a Scenic Start
Take the ferry from Keswick for a different perspective and to avoid parking woes.
🍦 Ice Cream Reward
Look out for the ice cream van on your descent – a perfect treat!
⬆️ Hike from the South
Approach from the south for a less crowded ascent and a different descent.
🐶 Dog-Friendly but Tricky
Dogs can manage, but the scrambles can be challenging for smaller pups.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Catbells is a beloved Lake District peak, praised for its accessible summit and breathtaking panoramic views, making it a perfect 'starter mountain.' While the scrambling is fun and the scenery spectacular, visitors should be prepared for crowds and limited parking. Some find the popular route quite busy, but the rewarding vistas and the option for a scenic ferry ride make it a worthwhile adventure for most.
"Great quick summit trip for our 1st trip to the lakes. The sunset was amazing from up there too. Was a little busy for our liking, but there was an excellent view all around and the colours of the sunset."
James Black
"If you're not very fit it's hard work but worth it for the breathtaking views. You need to take water and wear proper footwear. It's not as long a walk as it seems but it is a steep incline. I went on a Sunday when it was 20°c and it was very busy. Parking was very easy and £5 for the day, but it was on a field (bear this in mind if you're in a 2 wheel drive car in bad weather!). Easy walk down to Derwent water for a picnic, walk, or a swim if you're brave enough."
Kate Reed
"A must-do, and perfect for families! The views are absolutely stunning — and the promise of ice cream at the end kept my kids motivated all the way. It can get busy, but everyone we met was friendly and respectful.
The loop is about 3.5–3.7 miles with around 1,200 feet of elevation gain. It’s demanding but absolutely doable with a steady pace. Just be sure to bring plenty of water!"
Serena Liao
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
You can drive to the Catbells car park (limited spaces), take a bus to Hawse End, or enjoy a scenic ferry ride across Derwentwater from Keswick. The ferry is a popular and recommended option to avoid parking issues.
Yes, there's a small car park at the base of Catbells, but it fills up extremely quickly, especially on weekends. Many visitors park along the roadside or in a farmer's field for a small fee. Arriving very early is key.
Yes, you can take a bus to Hawse End, which is a common starting point for the Catbells hike. The Keswick Launch ferry also stops at Hawse End, offering a picturesque journey.
The most popular route starts from the car park at Hawse End. For a less crowded experience, consider approaching from the south or starting from Little Town in Newlands Valley.
Due to the rocky terrain and scrambling sections, Catbells is not suitable for wheelchairs or pushchairs. It requires a reasonable level of fitness and mobility.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Catbells is a natural fell and does not require an entrance ticket. Access is free for everyone.
Catbells is accessible at all times as it's an outdoor natural attraction. However, hiking in daylight is recommended for safety and enjoyment.
The official Catbells car park may have a fee, but many visitors find free parking spots or pay a small fee to park in a farmer's field. Roadside parking is also an option, but be mindful of parking restrictions.
Yes, several local guides and outdoor activity providers offer guided hikes up Catbells, which can be a great option for first-time visitors or those wanting to learn more about the area.
As a popular natural attraction, there are no specific entry restrictions. However, visitors are encouraged to practice 'Leave No Trace' principles, pack out all litter, and respect the environment.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
The hike up and down Catbells typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the summit. Some complete it in 1.5 hours.
Catbells is generally considered a moderate hike. It involves some steep sections and basic scrambling, making it a great starter mountain for many.
Expect stunning 360-degree views of Derwentwater, the surrounding fells like Skiddaw and Blencathra, and the Borrowdale Valley. It's a classic Lake District panorama. +1
The scrambling is generally considered easy to moderate and is a highlight for many. It's more of a fun rock scramble than a technical climb.
Wear sturdy hiking boots or trail shoes with good grip. Layers of clothing are advisable as the weather can change quickly. A waterproof jacket is also recommended.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Sunrise and sunset offer magical light for photography, creating dramatic skies and soft illumination. Midday can be harsh but still offers incredible panoramic shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details in the fells. Don't forget a polarizing filter for vibrant skies.
Absolutely! The path offers changing perspectives of Derwentwater and the valley. Look out for interesting rock formations and the interplay of light and shadow.
Drone usage in national parks can be restricted. Always check the latest regulations for the Lake District National Park before flying a drone.
The summit is obvious, but also look for viewpoints along the ascent, especially where Derwentwater is framed by the fells. The trig point at the summit is also a popular photo spot. +1
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