Catbells

From the parking area the route crosses the cattle grid at the Hawes End access and starts climbing almost at once. A narrow path works up Skelgill Bank, then zigzags to the summit of Catbells. From there it drops south to Hause Gate, turns east down a steep engineered path, and picks up the lower terrace bridleway. That path passes old Brandelhow mine workings before reaching Brandelhow Bay, then follows the wooded Derwent Water shoreline past High and Low Brandelhow and back to Hawes End and the car park.

The climb is the hard part: sustained short steep grades, uneven rocky ground, built steps, and one brief hands-on scramble on the upper ridge. Nothing is technical, but hands come out of pockets, and the uneven rocky ground and steps ask for care on the way down. Boots with grip are worth having, and the descent from Hause Gate is steep enough to feel it in the knees.

The summit and connecting ridge are open, with ground falling away on both sides, so the crossing can feel exposed when wind is up. There is little dependable water along the ridge, so carry what you need for the whole loop.

The ridge and summit give a wide sweep over Derwent Water, Keswick, Borrowdale, the Newlands Valley and the Western Fells. The second half changes character completely, with the grassed-over remains of the Brandelhow mine workings, the bay itself, and shaded woodland walking close to the water for the run back to Hawes End.

Dogs are welcome but should be kept under close control and on a lead anywhere near grazing sheep or cattle, including at the cattle grid and on the open fell. No permit is needed for this ordinary public fell walk.

Walkers wanting more can continue south beyond Hause Gate along the ridge to Maiden Moor and High Spy, which is a longer and harder day than the loop described here.