Rannerdale Knotts

Getting There and Parking

Rannerdale Knotts is located in the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, England. The area is easily accessible by car, although it is important to note that the roads leading to the trailhead are narrow and steep.

There are two roadside car parks at Cinderdale Common on the B5289 between Lorton and Buttermere, which is the starting point for the Rannerdale Knotts walk. These car parks can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so it is recommended to arrive early to secure a spot.

Alternatively, there is a National Trust car park at the eastern end of the trail near Buttermere. This car park is also small and can fill up quickly, so it is advisable to arrive early.

It is important to note that parking fees may apply at some of the car parks, and visitors should ensure they have the correct change or payment method. There are no toilets or other facilities at the car parks, so visitors should plan accordingly.

The Buttermere Court Hotel is an ideal location from which to explore the local area.

For those who prefer not to drive, there are also public transport options available. The nearest train station is in Penrith, and from there, visitors can take a bus to Buttermere or Lorton. From there, it is a short walk to the Rannerdale Knotts trailhead.

Overall, visitors to Rannerdale Knotts have several options for getting there and parking, but it is important to plan ahead and arrive early to secure a spot.

The Route

Rannerdale Knotts is a rocky fell in the Lake District National Park, known for its stunning scenery and challenging walks. The circular route up to the summit and back down is a popular choice for hikers looking for a steep climb and breathtaking views.

Ascent to the Summit

The ascent to the summit of Rannerdale Knotts is a steep climb, but the reward is worth the effort. The route starts in the small village of Buttermere, and follows a path that winds up through the valley. Hikers will need to use sticks to help them navigate the rocky terrain, and there are a few sections that require a bit of scrambling. Once at the summit, hikers will be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including Mellbreak and the Buttermere Valley.

Ridge Walk

The ridge walk along the top of Rannerdale Knotts is a highlight of the circular route. Hikers will need to be careful as they navigate the rocky terrain, but the views are breathtaking. On a clear day, it’s possible to see for miles in every direction. The ridge walk is a great opportunity to take some stunning photographs of the Lake District scenery.

Descent

The descent from Rannerdale Knotts is steep and requires some care. Hikers will need to navigate scree and rocky terrain as they make their way back down to the valley. The circular route takes hikers back to Buttermere, where they can relax and enjoy the stunning scenery.

Overall, the circular route up Rannerdale Knotts is a challenging but rewarding walk. Hikers will need to be prepared for a steep climb and some scrambling, but the views from the summit and the ridge walk are truly breathtaking. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just starting out, Rannerdale Knotts is a must-visit destination in the Lake District National Park.

Bluebells

Rannerdale Knotts is famous for its bluebells, which bloom from late April to early May each year. The bluebells cover the valley floor and the slopes of Rannerdale Knotts, creating a stunning blue carpet that is a sight to behold.

Bluebells are a type of woodland flower that is native to the UK. They are also known as English bluebells or wild hyacinths. They grow in deciduous woodlands and are common throughout the country.

The bluebells at Rannerdale Knotts are particularly special because they are a hybrid of the English bluebell and the Spanish bluebell. This gives them a unique appearance, with larger flowers and a paler blue colour than the English bluebell.

Visitors to Rannerdale Knotts can enjoy a leisurely walk through the bluebells, taking in the beautiful scenery and the sweet scent of the flowers. It is important to stay on the designated paths to avoid damaging the delicate ecosystem.

If you are lucky, you may also spot some of the wildlife that calls Rannerdale Knotts home, including red squirrels, deer, and a variety of bird species.

Overall, the bluebells at Rannerdale Knotts are a must-see for nature lovers and those who appreciate the beauty of the great outdoors.

The Battle of Rannerdale and The Secret Valley

Local historian and publican Nicholas Size published a historical novel in 1930 called The Secret Valley, which tells the story of how this area resisted the Norman invaders in the 50 years after the 1066 Norman invasion. According to Size, the Norman army was ambushed and defeated by the native Britons and Norsemen at the Battle of Rannerdale.

The battle is thought to have taken place in the side valley of Rannerdale, which runs east of the summit of the fell, west of Whiteless Pike and south of Grasmoor. Bluebells grow in profusion in this valley in April and May. According to local folklore, the bluebells are said to have sprung from the spilt blood of the slain Norman warriors.

A Norman army under the command of Ranulf Meschin, Earl of Carlisle, advanced south from Cockermouth. (Ranulf Meschin is Size’s anglicised version of Norman nobleman Ranulph les Meschines.) The local warriors were commanded by the Earl Boethar, who succeeded in drawing the Normans into the side valley of Rannerdale, then routed them with a surprise attack from above and behind.