Views from the first step
From the moment you step on the fell you can enjoy sensational panoramic views over Keswick, Derwentwater and Borrowdale. Add to that the views west over the Newlands valley and the western fells, and the walk is unrivalled for scenery.
Approximately 3.5 miles — 5.7km — and about three hours plus stops. Moderate: there is a short steep section on the ascent with some minor scrambling, but nothing too technical.
Up Skelgill Bank and round
The clear path leaves the road at the first bend and zig-zags steeply up the main breast of Skelgill Bank, levelling briefly before climbing again to the summit.
From the top it descends south to the saddle of Hawes Gate, where four paths meet, then down to Brandelhow Bay past the old mine workings and back along the wooded lakeshore. The full route has the directions.
Mrs Tiggy-Winkle’s hillside
Catbells, Skelgill and Littletown are all recognisable from the drawings in The Tale of Mrs Tiggy-Winkle — Beatrix Potter knew this hillside from her family’s summers at Lingholm, on the shore directly below.
Three ways there, none of which need a car park
By launch
The walk starts at Hawes End landing stage, best reached by taking the Keswick launch across the lake. It is the only fell in this set you can arrive at by boat.
Derwentwater launchesPark and sail
Park at Keswick Rugby Club on Crow Park Road — 200 spaces — and you get a Keswick Launch discount voucher. Presented at the ticket office it gives 15% off the launch that day for the driver and up to four passengers.
By bus
From Easter to October the 77A Honister Rambler runs from Keswick and stops at Catbells before going on through Borrowdale, Honister, Buttermere and Whinlatter. The 77 does the same circuit in reverse.
Bus times and routes
Map
- Catbells
- Keswick
- Derwentwater
- Newlands
- Maiden Moor
- Portinscale