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Cat Bells [Catbells] Group Walks | Join a Walk
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Elevation
451m
1,480 ft
Prominence
87m
Coordinates
54.5683, -3.1707
NY244198
OS Map
89 90
Explorer: OL4S
The summit features a prominent rocky outcrop and a small stone cairn, offering a comfortable spot for a breather and a photograph.
Cat Bells is primarily composed of volcanic rock known as ignimbrite, formed from ancient volcanic eruptions. The striking landscape offers a glimpse into the region's geological past, creating the rugged terrain that hikers cherish.
Stunning views of Derwentwater, Skiddaw, and several other peaks in the surrounding Lake District.
The name 'Cat Bells' is believed to have originated from 'Catalogue Bel', where 'cat' refers to a cat-like ridge and 'bells' to the bell-shaped hills found in the region.
Cat Bells is a beloved hill for families and walkers, often viewed as a gateway into the more rugged hills of the Lake District.
This is the most popular route to ascend Cat Bells, starting from Hawes End. The trail begins with a steady ascent through well-trodden paths and occasional rocky sections, providing stunning views over Derwentwater and the surrounding fells. This route features a short scramble near the top, adding an adventurous element to the walk.
This circular route begins at Hawes End and incorporates the ascent of Cat Bells followed by a descent towards the lakeshore of Derwentwater. The return journey follows the scenic shoreline, passing through woodland paths and providing a gentler finish with lovely views of the lake.
Starting from Little Town in the Newlands Valley, this quieter route ascends the eastern ridge of Cat Bells. The trail offers a gentler and less crowded approach, traversing open fellside and providing expansive views before joining the main ridge path to the summit.
This extended ridge walk begins at Hawes End and takes in the summit of Cat Bells before continuing southwards to Maiden Moor. The route provides panoramic views of the Newlands Valley and Borrowdale, offering a more challenging outing for experienced walkers.
This shorter route starts from the car park at Gutherscale near Portinscale. It follows the northern approach to Cat Bells, avoiding the steeper sections and scrambles, making it suitable for families and less experienced walkers, while still offering rewarding views.
There is a car park at the foot of Cat Bells near the villages of Keswick and Portinscale. It's often busy, especially during weekends.
Regular bus services operate from Keswick to various points close to Cat Bells, providing easy access without a vehicle.
There are numerous cafes and shops in nearby Keswick, as well as public toilets.
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Some common questions about the hills answered
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Cat Bells [Catbells] through the maps
Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Cat Bells [Catbells] search or of course create your own walk for Cat Bells [Catbells]
Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.
If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Cat Bells [Catbells].
There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.
Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.
Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Cat Bells [Catbells] here
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![Cat Bells [Catbells] location map](https://cdn.walkmates.com/hill-maps/cat-bells-[catbells].png)
Grid Ref: NY244198
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