Shipman Knotts

Rocky outcrops break out all over the steep slopes of Shipman Knotts, which is the southern end of the ridge that runs down from Kentmere Pike between Kentmere and Longsleddale. It rises only about 10 metres above the col behind it, but from Kentmere village it looks like a separate hill.

From Kentmere, take the track that heads east over the ridge towards Longsleddale. It crosses the watershed at about 350 metres, just south of the fell. At the top of the pass, turn north and follow the dry stone wall to the summit. The wall doesn't keep exactly to the ridge, and zigzags off it in places. Kentmere has very little parking, just a small space by the village hall opposite St Cuthbert's church, so arrive early. From the Longsleddale side you can start at Sadgill or Stockdale and reach the same pass.

Plenty of walkers tick it off on the Kentmere Horseshoe, a round of about 19 km and 1,100 metres of climbing from Kentmere village. Shipman Knotts is usually the last top, and the descent by Wray Crag is rocky and slippery when wet.

The summit is three rocky humps on the east side of the wall, and the middle one is the highest. Higher fells limit the view. The eastern face above Longsleddale is steeper, with Goat Scar and Rough Crags. The Kentmere side is rougher but less steep once you are above the valley. There is no scrambling on the path.