Attractions and Places To See around Buttermere - Top 5

Buttermere is renowned for its natural beauty. Key attractions include Buttermere Lake, offering a serene 6 km circular walk with stunning reflections of the fells. Nearby, you can find Sourmilk Gill Waterfall, an impressive cascade easily accessed from the lake. Don't miss Crummock Water, Buttermere's larger neighbor, perfect for paddling and picnics, or Scale Force Waterfall, the tallest in the Lake District, about an hour's walk from the village.

Yes, a unique feature is the Buttermere Tunnel, a 15-meter long tunnel carved out in the 19th century, which is part of the popular circular walk around Buttermere Lake. It's a fun and memorable part of the trail, especially for families.

The area around Buttermere offers a wide range of hiking trails. You can enjoy the easy-going 6 km circular walk around Buttermere Lake, which also takes you through Burtness Wood. For more challenging routes, consider fells like Haystacks, Alfred Wainwright's favorite, or Fleetwith Pike. You can find detailed routes and guides for various difficulties at Hiking around Buttermere.

Absolutely. The circular walk around Buttermere Lake is considered family-friendly and relatively easy, covering about 6 km. It includes the fun Buttermere Tunnel and peaceful Burtness Wood. For more easy options, explore the guides at Easy hikes around Buttermere.

Yes, wild swimming is popular in Buttermere. There's a dedicated Buttermere Wild Swimming Spot, which is a lovely place for a refreshing dip after a walk in the fells. Remember that the water can be very cold, especially outside of summer months, and it gets deep quickly.

Beyond its natural beauty, Buttermere offers cultural insights. Visit St. James' Church, dating back to the 1500s, which features a memorial to Alfred Wainwright and views of his beloved Haystacks. A short drive away is Honister Slate Mine, the last active slate mine in England, offering tours and a glimpse into the region's mining heritage.

Buttermere is a photographer's paradise. The shores of Buttermere Lake are famous for reflections of the surrounding fells. The Sentinels, ancient pines at the southern end of the lake, offer an iconic scene with Fleetwith Pike and Haystacks in the background. Rannerdale Knotts provides fantastic views despite its lower elevation, and Honister Pass is known for its scenic mountain road.

Yes, the Buttermere area provides opportunities for mountain biking. You can find various MTB trails, ranging from moderate to difficult, that explore the surrounding landscapes. For specific routes and details, refer to the guides available at MTB Trails around Buttermere.

Buttermere is beautiful year-round, but each season offers a different experience. Spring brings vibrant bluebells to Rannerdale and fresh greenery. Summer is ideal for walking and wild swimming. Autumn showcases spectacular fall foliage, especially around the fells. Winter can be dramatic with snow-capped peaks, though some paths may be more challenging. Always check local weather conditions before your visit.

Buttermere Village serves as a charming base for exploring the area. It features traditional stone-built cottages, welcoming inns like The Bridge Hotel and Buttermere Court Inn, and tearooms such as Croft House Farm and Syke Farm. These establishments offer local delicacies and provide a perfect spot for refreshments after your outdoor adventures.

Burtness Wood is a peaceful woodland area located along the side of Buttermere Lake. It's a lovely part of the Buttermere circuit, offering great views and easy walking. The footpath through the wood has also been upgraded to a bridleway, making it suitable for cycling.