Reston Scar and Brunt Knott

Reston Scar and Brunt Knott

Underrated terrain in a part of the Lakes most runners skip over. Reston Scar gives you proper fell on a short day, without the crowds of the central fells.

HARD

Effort: Good distance, solid climb

Underfoot: Open fell or rough terrain

E3·T3 how we grade routes
Distance
12.6km
Ascent
617m
Descent
623m
High point
446m
Est. time
3h – 4h 5m
Route type
Loop
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Elevation profile0km5km10km442m100m

Underrated terrain in a part of the Lakes most runners skip over. Reston Scar gives you proper fell on a short day, without the crowds of the central fells.

A quieter Lake District circular from Staveley combining the wooded scar of Reston, open fell on Brunt Knott, and a return through the Kentmere valley. Less visited than the big horseshoes but with character in every mile.

The route

From Staveley, the route climbs through woodland onto the rocky ground of Reston Scar before gaining open fell on Brunt Knott (345m). The return follows the Kentmere Valley floor back to Staveley along the River Kent.

Why it works

This is a route for days when you want genuine fell terrain without the full horseshoe commitment. The combination of wooded scar and open fell makes for varied running, and the Hawkshead Brewery tap is waiting at the end.

Watch out for

Pathless sections on higher fell. Steep ground on Reston Scar — care needed in wet or icy conditions. Navigation complex in poor visibility.

Kit for this route

INOV8 Men's MUDTALON Speed V2 Running Shoe

INOV8 Men's MUDTALON Speed V2 Running Shoe

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Salomon Supercross 4 Trail Running Shoes

Salomon Supercross 4 Trail Running Shoes

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Hoka Speedgoat 7

Hoka Speedgoat 7

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Salomon ADV Hydra Vest 4

Salomon ADV Hydra Vest 4

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Mountain Fuel Sports Jelly Hydrogel Energy Gel

Mountain Fuel Sports Jelly Hydrogel Energy Gel

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Garmin Forerunner 55 Running Watch

Garmin Forerunner 55 Running Watch

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Safety on this route

999 / 112
Ask for Police → Mountain Rescue
Grid ref
SD470984
  • No signal? Text 999 — pre-register first: text register to 999
  • Tell someone your route and expected return time before you head out

More safety guides →

Common questions

Verified June 2026Report a change