Knott

Knott

At 710.1 metres, Knott is the highest fell in the Back o’ Skiddaw area, the open moorland north of Skiddaw and Blencathra. Broad grassy slopes rise to a summit cairn at NY 29617 32984. Summit details.

The appeal is space and a wide outlook: Skiddaw dominates the south-west, Blencathra stands to the south-east and, in clear weather, Criffel appears across the Solway Firth. Summit panorama.

From Mosedale and back

From Mosedale, take the valley road towards Swineside. Before Grainsgill Bridge, turn onto the old Carrock Mine track. Beyond the workings, use the path across Drygill Head, crossing Arm o’ Grain near the ruined sheepfold, then rejoin the path beside Grainsgill Beck. Near Miller Moss, cross the beck for Gunner Well. Keep right at the fork, climb the steep northeast end of Side and follow the path west past Rigg to Knott’s cairn. Approach description.

Return by the same route: Side, Gunner Well, the beck crossing, Drygill Head and the mine track. Follow the valley road back to Mosedale. Descent context.

The Drygill Head path starts faintly. This is a strenuous fell walk with boggy ground, steep sections and stream crossings.

Use a detailed map and leave enough daylight for the whole return. Heavy rain can make becks impassable; turn back rather than attempt an unsafe crossing. Walking safety.

Beneath the grass

Knott’s summit bedrock is the Bitter Beck Formation, part of the Skiddaw Group. These Ordovician sedimentary rocks include siltstone and mudstone with smaller amounts of sandstone. Fell geology · BGS formation record.

Planning your visit

There are only a few roadside spaces south of Mosedale’s bridge over the River Caldew, at NY 357 320. Park considerately and keep access clear. Starting point.

Keswick is a useful base for supplies. Mosedale’s Quaker Meeting House has a seasonal cake and craft shop; check the village noticeboard for opening times. Local visitor information.

If travelling without a car, arrange your onward journey to Mosedale and the return before setting out.

Carry food, drinking water and suitable clothing. Check the mountain forecast and avoid exposed ground in strong winds or storms. Snow and ice call for winter skills and equipment, not just extra layers. National Park advice.