Difficulty: Easy
Wainwright: Book Six – The North-Western Fells.
Nestled in the Buttermere valley, Rannerdale Knotts is one of the smaller fells in Lakeland. Although it is small, do not underestimate it. From the summit you will have a fabulous view of Crummock Water across to Mellbreak. In the spring time the bluebells spread across the hillside and produce a stunning sight. This little fell is the perfect hike to start off your week in Buttermere and get you warmed up for the week to come.
The Climb
Standing at 1,165ft the climb itself is not too strenuous. There are a couple of different routes to the summit depending on which direction you are coming from and whether you want to continue up towards Whiteless Pike and Grasmoor. I personally enjoy starting off from Buttermere.
Make sure you are armed with all the usual gear and either a Wainwright or an OS Map. As you know by now, I do prefer a good Wainwright guide. Start off from the Fish Inn, Buttermere and head up towards the main road. Turn left and as you cross the bridge you should see a public footpath on your right that runs alongside the river.
Follow the trail up through the woods alongside the beck. This is where you get a distinct Lord of the Rings feel from your surroundings. Admire the array of colours and the peaceful sounds of the beck as you wander along until you reach a small stile.
From here the route is quite self-explanatory. Head straight up the hill, through the bracken.
The Plateau
Although this is the steepest part of the hike it isn’t really too bad. Until you are coming back and nearly fall flat on your face like I did… As soon as the hill begins to plateau you will be able to turn left and head straight along to the summit. Those heading on to Whiteless Pike will want to go straight instead of left.
The walk from here on out is pretty easy. Rogue Herdwicks will jump across your path and career down the hillside at great speeds if spooked. It is a miracle they don’t go tumbling head over heels.
Summit
The summit itself is pretty unremarkable, however the view in all directions is spectacular. On a clear day you can see for miles. I would advise taking your time to sit and watch the world go by as you occasionally get a glimpse of birds of prey hovering in the valley between Rannerdale Knotts and Grasmoor.
This is one of the fells that I tend to take a pretty similar route back. I know! What blasphemy?! Head back along the fairly flat ridge until you reach the end. If you’re wanting a bit more of a walk then turn left and head straight up for Whiteless Peak.
Bluebells
If you want to see the bluebells then take a sharp left and head down into the valley between Rannerdale Knotts and the surrounding peaks.
Carry on through the valley and you will see a sight you won’t be forgetting in a hurry. The best time to see the Bluebells is late April to early May. There are thousands! The most pictueresque thing you could ever lay eyes on.
Remember to look after the bluebells for others to see. Stick to the paths and don’t walk into them. As a historical feature of Rannerdale these flowers are precious.
Getting Home
Carry on until you reach the road and turn left to head back towards Buttermere right where you began. An easy walk but a highly rewarding one.
Overall I have to say that Rannerdale Knotts is fabulous and a nice gateway to the fells behind. The perfect short hike or start of a long days walking. Enjoy ramblers!
