Rannerdale Knotts hike

We often stay at the YHA in Buttermere, so the GPS track shows the walk from this location. For most others, you can save 0.5mi of the route by starting right in Buttermere.

Start opposite the Bridge Hotel in the heart of Buttermere. From here, cross the road and immediately pass a gate and then head uphill through Ghyll Wood. This trail ascends through woods along Sail Beck.

Go over a gate, exit the woods and cross on a path to link with another path heading right and continuing uphill.  Soon you will see paths heading off to your left – take one of these as it connects with another path that goes along the top of the ridge, all the way up to Rannerdale Knotts.

There are wonderful views as you ascend in all directions. Once at the top of Rannerdale Knotts the descent is less straightforward. From the top, continue roughly ahead and then drop down to the left. When the path splits take either route. However, we like to go right and down a steep slope with stone steps, though these steps are tremendously slippery in wet weather!

You will soon come to a T-junction, go right and head downhill. As you descend you will eventually take a faint path heading to your left. It is easy to miss this path and continue ahead to Hause Point, from which you’ll need to retrace your steps.

Follow the path as it continues SE down as it descends to the end of Crummock Water. You will see a road at the bottom of the path and you will need to cross it and go through a gate for the last bit of the walk back.

The final part of the trail after the road is the most challenging for route finding, as the route isn’t clear. Follow the shore of Crummock Water as it curves around, with a path that is often not visible. Cross a bridge and then go through a gate and bear left, leaving the lake and heading along a field, on a disappearing path. The little stream should be on your left while you walk through the field.

You soon reach a camping area and car park. Go through the final gate and walk into town, returning to the Bridge Hotel.

Looking for more great walks in the Lake District? Check out the Helvellyn Walk, Scafell Pike Walk, Fairfield Horseshoe or the Old Man of Coniston.