How to Tie a Bowline Knot

Bowline Knot

Learn How to Tie a Bowline Knot

The bowline knot is one of the most useful knots you can learn. It is the most well known and important boating and sailing knot, often referred to as the ‘King of Knots’.

The knot forms a secure loop at the end of a rope which is easy to tie and untie, even after being placed under heavy load.

For hundreds of years the bowline knot has been used by sailors and is considered to be one of the essential knots that everyone should know.

The first mention of the bowline knot in written history is in John Smith’s A Seaman’s Grammar, published in 1627.

Secure with quick release

When you need a knot that is secure with quick release this is the one to use. From tying your dog to a post when you pop to the shops to hanging up your hammock on a hot summers day the bowline knot will come in handy.

The bowline is also used in climbing, fishing, wilderness survival skills and animal husbandry! (the preferred knot when tying a rope around any part of an animal’s body), but you will find it helpful in everyday use.

Watch the video how to tie the bowline knot

This knot is easy to learn – watch this video to find out how.

A rabbit comes out of the hole, goes around the tree, and back down the hole

This knot remembered with the mnemonic “a rabbit comes out of the hole, goes around the tree, and back down the hole”

There are many variations on the Bowline, including the French bowline and the running bowline, for more knot inspiration check out our Tied in Knots pinterest board

Learn more about knots and tying techniques with step-by-step photographs The Ultimate Encyclopedia of Knots and Ropework

  • uk beach days
    Beach Guide

    See all beaches

    Enjoy the UK Coast