Cat Bells: The family fell

As with most ascents of Cat Bells, this route starts at Hawes End, where there is a small car park. From here follow the narrow path marked by the signpost stating 'Cat Bells 1 mile'. This path will curve around the bottom of the hill to the north ridge, and begin to lead you upwards, over the ridge's bumps.The climb is steep, with a couple of scrambling sections, but nothing particularly technical which should unduly worry you. Once you reach the summit carry on following the path down the ridge as it descends towards Hause gate. Cat Bells is one of Britain's most beloved fells, memorably dubbed by Wainwight as 'a family fell where grandmothers and infants can climb the heights together, a place beloved. Its popularity is well deserved, its shapely topknot attracts the eye offering a steep but obviously simple scramble.'Its popularity endures as a simple route and a sharp but manageable climb, with a lovely view over Derwent Water at the peak. There is some scrambling on this route but it isn't technical, and should be easily managed. Ensure that you have three points of contact at all times, and that you're confident in your footing before proceeding. None of the sections are difficult - if they are stumped, look to the left or right for a more viable route.

Four paths meet at Hause Gate - take the leftmost path as it drops down some steep steps, and then crosses a hill. At the bottom it will meet up with a a bridleway. Turn left and head north following the path as it runs along the lower contours of the ridge, parallel to the road below. The path rises and falls as it runs along, joining with the road once. After about 2km the ridge above you will begin to drop and you can take the path left to rejoin the narrow path you started on. You can follow this back to the car park. Cat Bells is a slightly mysterious name and is thought to originate in 'Cat Bields' or 'shelter of the wild cat' - though this is unconfirmed.