Catbells
Catbells at 451 metres is the fell that introduces more people to the Lake District fells than any other. It earns that role. The views over Derwentwater are exceptional from remarkably low down, and the ridge walk to and from the summit gives a genuine fell experience without the commitment of the bigger mountains. Beatrix Potter walked it. There is a plaque for Hugh Walpole near the summit. It has a long history of being loved. The summit is a small rocky knob with a ring of cairns and, on weekends in July and August, more people than you expect. From the top, Derwentwater spreads north toward Keswick, the Skiddaw massif fills the northern skyline, and the Borrowdale valley cuts south between the Borrowdale Fells. On a clear autumn day the colours below are extraordinary. Beyond the summit the ridge continues south to Maiden Moor and High Spy, both considerably quieter fells that can extend the day significantly. The descent via Hause Gate and back down to Hawes End is the standard return, but the ridge extension to Maiden Moor and down via the Bull Crag path to Grange gives a finer day for those with legs to spare.
Walking
The Hawes End approach takes the Keswick Launch from Keswick landing stage to Hawes End (a 20-minute boat ride). From Hawes End the path climbs directly through bracken and rock to gain the ridge below the summit. The ascent involves a short scramble on the upper section — nothing technical, but requires hands on the rocks. Around 3.5 miles return from the jetty with 450 metres of ascent. Allow 2 to 3 hours. Alternatively, drive to the small car parking area at Skelgill Farm (CA12 5UE, limited spaces, free) and take the path north to gain the ridge at Hause Gate before climbing south to the summit. This avoids the scramble on the standard ascent and is more appropriate for young children or those uncomfortable with exposed rock. The extension to Maiden Moor and High Spy is worth every step. The ridge between Catbells and Maiden Moor is straightforward walking on good paths, and High Spy gives a different perspective into Newlands and Borrowdale. Return via Castle Crag in Borrowdale and walk out along the valley floor for a full day of around 8 miles.
Routes
Hawes End via Keswick Launch
Hawes End jetty (Keswick Launch service)
Tips
The Keswick Launch ferry service runs regularly and takes you directly to the start. Combining the boat trip each way with the walk makes for a brilliant day. Go early on summer weekends — by 11am the ridge below the summit has a queue. The Royal Oak in Braithwaite (CA12 5SY) is a 10-minute drive and a proper walkers' pub. Catbells is excellent for introducing teenagers to fell walking — it feels like a proper mountain, requires some effort, but does not intimidate.