The route starts with one of the most popular of Lakeland’s smaller peaks, Cat Bells, above the western side of Derwent Water. But things become progressively quieter thereafter as you head south along the ridge over Maiden Moor and High Spy. A descent to Dalehead Tarn is followed by a climb to Dale Head, the highest point on the circuit (753m/2,470ft) and a superb viewpoint. The return leg is along the Hindscarth ridge, with a saunter back along the peaceful Newlands Valley at the end.
[1] From the car park, a good path leads up to Cat Bells (451m/1,480ft). This is a popular climb, but it is quite steep and rocky in places, and care should be taken.
The views both on the way up and from the top are superb, particularly looking north to Skiddaw and Blencathra, with Derwent Water below to the right.
[2] Continue along the ridge down to the col and carry on uphill to Maiden Moor, then southwards to the prominent summit cairn on High Spy (653m/2,142ft) – a fine vantage point.
[3] Follow the stony path down towards Dalehead Tarn, which can be seen below in the distance. The path crosses the stream and climbs up to the tarn, passing round its northern side (not southern, as the OS map shows). This is a pleasant spot for a bite of lunch to fortify you before the ensuing climb.
[4] The steep walk up to Dale Head is the most strenuous part of the walk, but the stony path is good and clear, and the reward from the top well repays the effort.
In all directions the views are splendid, particularly looking along the length of Newlands Valley, considered by Wainwright to be ”the finest aerial view of a valley from a Lakeland summit”.
[5] Continue northwest along Hindscarth Edge. Buttermere can be seen in the valley below, ahead to the left. At a fork, bear right to head on up to the summit of Hindscarth (727m/2,385ft).
[6] Carry on northwards to descend a narrowing ridge.
Further down, the rather knobbly ridge is carpeted in heather: a colourful foreground when in flower, with Newlands Valley and Skiddaw et al beyond providing a splendid backdrop.
From Scope End, you descend to the valley and Low Snab Farm (where tea may be available).
[7] There’s a choice of routes here: either turn right, then cross the footbridge over Newlands Beck and go left along the track to Little Town. Or, turn left through the farmyard gate to follow the permitted path/farm access drive to Newlands Church.
This is a small whitewashed building, rebuilt in 1843 on the site of an earlier church. Look back to enjoy the views of the shapely green fells.
Bear right to the road and turn right along it to Little Town. Walk through the hamlet, then turn right along a footpath signed for Skelgill. The track leads to a dwelling and, beyond, the path continues through fields to Skelgill Farm and the road. Bear right back to the start.