Lowland Lakeland - Keswick and Cat Bells (Sunday)
20 people attending
0 places left
6 people waitlisted
Part two of an occasional series of the more interesting and scenic Lakeland walks without going up massive mountains, this walk takes in Cat Bells, a surprisingly interesting little mountain (if you'd call it that) with spectacular views across Derwentwater and Keswick.
This walk would be particularly good if you've never done any hillwalking but fancy giving it a go but perhaps find a full-on mountain walk a bit much. You're also welcome if you'd run up Scafell Pike before breakfast and just fancy something a bit easier for once! :) (Or anything in between).
The highlight of this walk is Cat Bells itself, which despite technically not being a mountain at just 451m above sea level very much has the feel of one, with a steep ascent, a few non-exposed rocky/slightly scrambly bits near the top (don't worry, I can assist you across those if you get stuck, they're more fun than anything!) and views you'd think you'd only get if you went up a lot higher. You'll also be able to enjoy great views on the way back towards Keswick. Just calling it a "hill" (which it technically is) doesn't really do it any justice - and it is a Wainwright!
We will take our time on the ascent so don't be worried about being left behind, and the bit back to Keswick once we're away from Cat Bells itself is pretty much flat.
For those who wish we'll finish with a drink or a coffee in Keswick.
Weather conditions
We may need to change the walk or postpone it in the event of very severe weather. I will let you know as soon as I can if this looks likely.
Don't waste that space!
Please only book if you know you can make it. If your plans change please free up the space for someone else.
Is it dog friendly?
Dogs are welcome but please note and abide by the Countryside Code (https://tinyurl.com/rlqvp3h). Parts of this walk are quite steep/awkward so be sure your dog is OK with that. Please also remember not everyone loves dogs as much as you do so please be mindful of other members.
New Members
Please feel free to join this as your first OutdoorLads event. If you have any questions then feel free to message me, or go to the "My First Event" section under "About Us".
Image / photo credits: All leader's own images - with permission for OutdoorLads to use and reuse
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What to bring
Water: Bring at least two litres
Medicines: If you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day rucksack: Typically 20-40 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely.
Boots: Waterproof and breathable and designed for hiking/walking. The route is steep and awkward in places so trainers (other than proper fell/trail running or approach shoes with boot-like soles) aren't suitable for this walk, and if you do wear those be prepared for wet feet!
Socks: Proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters.
Layered clothing: Lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece).
Trousers: Ideally no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK.
Waterproof jacket and trousers: Essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry.
Hat and gloves: It could be chilly particularly on top so always pack these just in case!
Walking poles: People have mixed views on these, but I find them very useful on steep descents, and there is one on this walk. Up to you - you should be able to pick them up cheaply if you would like to try them. I tend to use one to keep a hand free but plenty of people swear by two!
Snacks: Bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of.
Lunch: Bring a packed lunch.
Food & drink
Make sure you bring at least 2l of water and maybe a flask of hot drink if that's your thing.
Please bring a packed lunch or buy something from Booths at the start (I've set the start time so there'll be time to pop in quickly before the walk, it opens at 10). Other than on the way out of Keswick we won't pass shops along the way, though there might be an ice cream/coffee van out at the base of Cat Bells, there sometimes is. Assuming the weather is suitable we'll look to eat on top with stunning views of Derwentwater and Keswick!