Hill data: The Database of British and Irish Hills v18.6 (CC BY 4.0)Height451 m1,480 ft
Grid RefNY 24409 19861
OS MapOL4OS Explorer
BookNorth Western FellsBook 6
Cat Bells is the last fell at the end of the ridge between Derwentwater and the Newlands Valley, about 5 km from Keswick. The bare, rocky top comes after a short scramble, with Derwentwater laid out below and Skiddaw and Bassenthwaite Lake to the north. The name may come from 'cat bields', a wildcat's shelter, and Beatrix Potter set Mrs Tiggy-Winkle's home on its eastern slopes.
New to the Wainwrights?Read our guide: What Are The Wainwrights?Summit
Rock
Rock & Ground
Skiddaw slate, with old lead mine workings on its flanks.
Also On These Lists
BirkettSyngeFellranger
Summit Weather
Our Route
Distance10.4 mi16.8 km
Ascent990 m3,250 ft
Time5h 50mwalking
Start & FinishChapel Bridge Car ParkNY 2315 1939 · circular route
DirectionsAlso on this route: Dale Head, High Spy, Maiden Moor
Safety: Routes are a guide only. Carry a map and compass and know how to use them, check the weather before you go, and turn back if in doubt. You use this route at your own risk.
