Arnside Knott Circular Walk Map
This popular circular walk takes you around a small, coastal hill in the Arnside and Silverdale AONB. The route runs for a distance of just under two miles with a small climb on the way.
The Knott is a popular beauty spot and internationally important wildlife area. The area includes a mixture of limestone grassland, woodland, wet meadow, scree and scrub. It's also renowned for its butterflies and flowers. From the 159 metres (522 ft) high point there are fabulous views over Silverdale and the coastal estuary towards Grange over Sands, Morecambe Bay, the River Kent Estuary and the Lake District fells. There's a handy toposcope at the top which details the landmarks you can see from the summit.
This circular walk starts at the car park by the hill and takes you to the viewpoint and through the woodland on public footpaths. It runs for about 1.5 miles with a little climbing on the way.
You can continue your walk by picking up the Cumbria Coastal Way which starts at the nearby Milnthorpe Sands. Or you could visit the nearby Leighton Moss Nature Reserve. Also nearby is Warton Crag nature reserve with its rare butterflies and plants.
Just to the south, you can follow footpaths to and enjoy a climb to the Victorian Pepperpot monument on King William's Hill.
Arnside Knott Ordnance Survey Map 
- view and print off detailed OS map
Arnside Knott Open Street Map 
- view and print off detailed map
Arnside Knott OS Map 
- Mobile GPS OS Map with Location tracking
Arnside Knott Open Street Map 
- Mobile GPS Map with Location tracking
Pubs/Cafes
Head north from the hill and visit the pretty village of Arnside for some refreshments after your walk. The Albion is a good choice with lovely views across the Kent Estuary from the waterfront pub. There's a nice outdoor seating area where you can sit and take in views of Lakeland hills. You may also catch the Arnside Bore if you are there at the right time. The bore occurs at high tides, especially spring tides, where the incoming tide of Morecambe Bay narrows into the river estuary. You can find the pub at 36 The Promenade with a postcode of LA5 0HA for your sat navs.
Dog Walking
The Knott is a great place to walk your dog with nice woodland paths to explore. The Albion pub mentioned above is also dog friendly.
Further Information and Other Local Ideas
Just to the south east of the hill you will find the atmospheric ruins of Arnside Tower. The late-medieval tower house (or Pele tower) was built in the second half of the 15th century. It's a Scheduled Monument and Grade II* listed building and makes for a striking photo. You can reach it easily by picking up a footpath at Hare Parrock at the southern part of the site.
In Arnside you will find the delightful Ashmeadow Woodlands. There's some lovely footpaths here with lots of birdlife to enjoy. The woods can be accessed from the end of Arnside Promenade or walk along the first bit of the coast path and access the woodland from the opening near the coastguard station.
Another nice idea is to catch the train over the Kent viaduct to Grange Over Sands on the other side of the river. The Cumbria Coastal way runs along the front, providing great views back over to Arnside. You can also try our Grange-over-Sands and Cartmel Circular Walk which visits the fascinating 12th century Cartmel Priory and the splendidly positioned Hampsfell Hospice.
Head a few miles north and you could visit Witherslack and enjoy some splendid limestone scenery at the Whitbarrow National Nature Reserve. Just to the east of Witherslack there's also the Foulshaw Moss Nature Reserve. The reserve has some nice boardwalks to follow over the peat bog. It's also excellent for wildlife with ospreys, hobby, sparrowhawk, buzzard and peregrine to look out for from the bird hides.
Follow the Limestone Link east and you could visit a local geological highlight at Beetham's Fairy Steps. Here you will find an unusual natural limestone staircase which you can climb for more excellent views. The little village of Beetham is also well worth exploring with its 14th century ruined manor house and a particularly lovely garden centre.
Visitor Reviews
"Arnside Knott is a hidden gem! The views over Morecambe Bay are simply stunning, especially at sunset. A peaceful and beautiful spot."
"A lovely hike that isn't too strenuous. We saw lots of butterflies and wildflowers along the way. Perfect for a gentle day out in nature."
"Great for a family walk, with fantastic panoramic views at the top. Definitely worth the climb, and there are picnic spots along the way!"
"Such a relaxing place to walk and take in the scenery. The coastal views are amazing, and there are lots of wildlife sightings."
"Arnside Knott is wonderful for an afternoon hike. It has a mix of woodlands and open views, and it’s so tranquil – highly recommend it!"
Cycle Routes and Walking Routes Nearby
Photos
View from just below Arnside Knott looking North West over River Kent estuary
Limestone screes and grassland on the south face of this rugged little hill. The Knott is known for sightings of rare butterflies like the High Brown Fritillary, making it popular with wildlife enthusiasts. At 159 metres, it’s not particularly high, but its trails provide peaceful walks with rich flora, fauna, and impressive landscapes.
Slopes below the Knott with the Kent estuary and Arnside railway viaduct in the distance. Arnside is a charming coastal village located on the edge of Morecambe Bay in Cumbria, England. It’s known for its picturesque views of the bay and nearby hills, especially Arnside Knott, which offers scenic hiking trails and sweeping vistas. The village has a rich history, evident in its Victorian architecture and its heritage as a former port. Visitors enjoy strolling along the Arnside Promenade, where they can observe the unique tidal bore as the sea rushes into the estuary. Arnside’s quiet cafes, local shops, and friendly atmosphere make it a delightful spot for relaxation and exploration in the heart of the Arnside and Silverdale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
The well maintained trig point on the summit
Arnside Viaduct from the Knott. The railway line is carried over the River Kent on a viaduct 552 yards (505 m) long, with 50 piers. It was built in 1857 and rebuilt in 1915.
View North East from the trig point
Erosion of the very popular path arrears to have exposed the roots of this tree.
Yew woods. Dark and ancient woodlands below the Knott