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Cat Bells and the Lake Shore

Lake District National Park

For one of the best short routes in the north Lakes combine the charismatic mini mountain Cat Bells with a ramble along the wooded west side of Derwentwater - perhaps the most picturesque shoreline in England.

Hiking Moderate

Distance
7.3 km
Ascent
439 m
Descent
440 m
Duration
2-3 hrs
Low Point
74 m
High Point
441 m
Gradient
14˚
Cat Bells and the Lake Shore Map

For one of the best short routes in the north Lakes combine the charismatic mini mountain Cat Bells with a ramble along the wooded west side of Derwentwater - perhaps the most picturesque shoreline in England. To make this family-friendly trip a little bit extra special try approaching the walk by boat from Keswick; there's a regular timetable of launches year round.

Description

From the landing stage at High Brandelhow follow the footpath north along the lake shore, through beautiful deciduous woods. If you've kids in tow Victoria Bay is a good place to stop for a splash-about. Just before reaching here you pass a wooden sculpture of a giant pair of hands, commissioned in 2002 to mark the 100th anniversary of the National Trust. Brandelhow is the 'birthplace' of the Trust in the Lake District. Continue past the jetty at Low Brandelhow and instead of turning inland here carry on to the little point at Otterbield Bay (because it's there, and lovely). Now the path cuts back on itself, running inland to pass around the bay to reach Hawse End Outdoor Centre. Beyond the centre turn left and walk up though the woods to the minor road at the foot of Cat Bells.

You've a choice of paths to get established on the fell's north ridge, either to the left or the right. Above their initial zigzags both soon rejoin for the steady plod up the ridge, with expansive views over Derwentwater opening out behind you. A short section of scrambly slatey rock leads to an attractive level ridge crest, Skelgill Bank. This soon brings you to the base of Cat Bells' steep summit cone; brief, but quite a slog. If it's a sunny weekend expect some company on top.

Descend easily south to the col at Hause Gate. Here cut left on a flagstone path for a long diagonal descent into Borrowdale. Once down by the trees cut left on a trail that traverses the hillside to reach the road above Brandelhow Bay. Go north very briefly on the road, then turn off right to descend a path past mine workings down to the lake shore at the High Brandelhow landing stage.

© Dan Bailey - UKHillwalking.com, Aug 2013

Difficulty

Moderate

Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area