Steel Knotts

Steel Knotts is one of the quieter, more compact fells tucked into the Far Eastern Fells of the English Lake District, sitting between Ullswater and Haweswater. At 432 metres (1,417 ft), it lacks the drama of the higher summits, but rewards walkers with unexpectedly fine ridge walking, interesting rocky features and clear views over Ullswater, Martindale and the Helvellyn range. Its position makes it a useful addition to longer walks — commonly paired with Hallin Fell, Loadpot Hill or as part of a circuit from Patterdale — yet it also works well as a short, sharp outing from the Ullswater shores.

STEEL KNOTTS INFORMATION

Steel Knotts sits on the eastern flank of the Far Eastern Fells. Although longer walks to Steel Knotts can be accessed by linking the Ullswater Way from Glenridding or Patterdale, I have always accessed this diminutive fell from Howtown or Martindale.

Steel Knotts is a compact, craggy fell with a distinctive northern face that drops steeply toward the valley. The summit area is rocky underfoot in places, interspersed with grassy sections and low, wind-sheared heather. The fell feels more intimate than the higher central Lake District peaks — its ridges and rock outcrops give strong character and provide good scrambling on steeper sections for those comfortable with hands-on moves. Paths are well trodden but can be narrow and muddy after rain.

The summit is marked by a rocky outcrop that is distinctive and offers views which are excellent for the height. In one direction are views pictured above which take in the Nab and the Martindale Horseshoe. In the other direction is Ullswater and the nearby Hallin Fell.

Ullswater stretches out to the northeast with steep farmland and woods below, while the Helvellyn range towers to the west and south-west. To the east and north-east you get a clear sense of the Eden valley and the Pennine foothills beyond. On fine days the water-glass sheen of Ullswater framed by surrounding fells makes Steel Knotts a rewarding, compact viewpoint.

Steel Knotts works year-round. Spring and autumn give good colour and fewer crowds; summer brings longer daylight but more walkers. Winter conditions can make the crags icy.

For a relatively small fell, Steel Knotts offers dramatic local scenery, sweeping views over Ullswater and a satisfying, varied walk that can be short and sharp or part of a longer, more challenging day on the Far Eastern Fells. It’s ideal if you want mountain character without the sustained commitment of higher summits.

HEIGHT IN METRES 432m

HEIGHT IN FEET 1417ft

RANGE Far Eastern Fells

GRID REFERENCE NY 440 181

Have you walked Steel Knotts? Let me know below