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Cat Bells & Derwentwater Dog Walk, Keswick, Lake District

Cat Bells & Derwentwater Dog Walk

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Suitable forWalking
Dog friendly2 places along the way

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Cat Bells is the Lake District's most beloved family mountain — and a classic dog walk. The open fellside above Derwentwater gives panoramic views and off-lead freedom, while the lakeside path below offers level walking with the lake for swimming. Short enough for a half-day but spectacular throughout.

For your dog

Off leadYes, there are stretches where your dog can run free
WaterDerwentwater (lake swimming); fell streams
LivestockHerdwick sheep on the fell — reliable recall essential
MudFell paths can be boggy in wet weather
SuitsAll breeds — the rocky summit needs confident scrambling
Best timeAll year — spring and autumn best for quiet fell walking

Along the way

1
Cat Bells SummitAt 451m the views encompass Derwentwater, Skiddaw, Borrowdale and the Newlands Valley — one of the finest panoramas in the Lake District.
2
DerwentwaterSwimming for dogs on the eastern shore — the clear lake water is irresistible for water-loving breeds.

The route

Distance3.9 km
Off leadYes
Walking≈ 1 h 32
Climb↑ 400 m
RouteOut and back

A 3.9 km out-and-back dog walk from Keswick, with 400 m of climbing.

Elevation↑ 400 m in total

Before you go

StartChapel Bridge, Above Derwent, StairOpen the start in Maps →
FinishBack where you started
ParkingHawse End landing stage, CA12 5UE. Limited — arrive early
By train or busLaunch from Keswick Derwentwater Landing
UnderfootLakeside path accessible. Fell ascent not accessible
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