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Cat Bells & Derwent Water loop — Lake District National Park

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Hiking trails & Routes

Cat Bells & Derwent Water loop — Lake District National Park

Moderate

4.9

(339)

1,737

hikers

Cat Bells & Derwent Water loop — Lake District National Park

02:27

7.09km

360m

Hiking

Embark on the Cat Bells & Derwent Water loop, a moderate hike covering 4.4 miles (7.1 km) with an elevation gain of 1177 feet (359 metres), typically completed in 2 hours and 26 minutes. This popular route offers a varied terrain, starting with well-trodden paths before a steep ascent up…

Last updated: April 23, 2026

Waypoints

Start point

Parking

Get Directions

1.10 km

Skelgill Bank

Highlight • Summit

After the steep ascent up from Hawes End, many first time visitors to Catbells initially mistake Skelgill Bank to be the main summit. However, upon reaching the crest, they are …

Tip by

1.89 km

Catbells Summit

Highlight • Summit

The hike along Catbells is extremely popular — and for good reason. The walk is absolutely classic; fun terrain, spectacular views, lots of places to stop for picnics. In high …

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5.53 km

Withesike Bay

Highlight • Forest

Withesike Bay is one of many along the Derwentwater shoreline. You can get a brilliant sunrise here. The bay can get busy during peak season but there are others nearby to choose from.

Tip by

7.09 km

End point

Parking

Way Types & Surfaces

Way Types

4.91 km

977 m

525 m

483 m

192 m

Surfaces

2.45 km

1.64 km

1.50 km

1.12 km

204 m

171 m

Elevation

Nothing selected – click and drag below to see the stats for a specific part of the route.

Highest point (420 m)

Lowest point (80 m)

Weather

Monday 11 May

12°C

4°C

12 %

Additional weather tips

Max wind speed: 25.0 km/h

to get more detailed weather forecasts along your route

This route was planned by komoot.

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Trail Reviews

Jane Barber

November 15, 2021, Hike

Brilliantvwalk but spent a bit of time on your knees

Cat Bells & Derwent Water loop — Lake District National Park

Skelgill Bank

Catbells Summit

Withesike Bay

Nearby routes

Trail Reviews

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