Buttermere Lake District
A breathtaking lake surrounded by dramatic fells, offering iconic walks, hidden pools, and stunning natural beauty.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene views, fewer crowds
Buttermere Lake District
Best Time
Serene views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking lake surrounded by dramatic fells, offering iconic walks, hidden pools, and stunning natural beauty.
"This has to be one of the most scenic circular walks in the Lake District!"
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for rocky and potentially muddy trails, especially on the Buttermere horseshoe hike.
💰 Carry Cash for Parking
Gatesgarth Farm and National Trust car parks often require cash payment for day parking.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Buttermere Lake Circular Walk
Around Buttermere Lake
A mostly flat, scenic 4-5 mile loop offering stunning lake views, fells, and forests. Perfect for all abilities.
Buttermere Infinity Pools
Near Warnscale Bothy
Magical natural pools with breathtaking views of the fells and lake. A popular spot for wild swimming.
Warnscale Bothy Hike
Above Buttermere
A challenging but rewarding hike to a remote bothy with arguably one of the best views in the UK.
Scale Force Waterfall
North of Buttermere
A dramatic waterfall accessible via an easy 2-mile walk, offering a refreshing natural spectacle.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience
Parking and Trail Preparedness
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for rocky and potentially muddy trails, especially on the Buttermere horseshoe hike.
💰 Carry Cash for Parking
Gatesgarth Farm and National Trust car parks often require cash payment for day parking.
📸 Capture Highland Cows
Keep an eye out for the iconic Highland cows grazing by the lake for a classic Lake District photo op.
🗺️ Navigation Skills Recommended
For challenging hikes like the Buttermere horseshoe, proper navigation is crucial due to potential dangers.
Tips
from all over the internet
🥾 Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
Essential for rocky and potentially muddy trails, especially on the Buttermere horseshoe hike.
💰 Carry Cash for Parking
Gatesgarth Farm and National Trust car parks often require cash payment for day parking.
📸 Capture Highland Cows
Keep an eye out for the iconic Highland cows grazing by the lake for a classic Lake District photo op.
🗺️ Navigation Skills Recommended
For challenging hikes like the Buttermere horseshoe, proper navigation is crucial due to potential dangers.
💧 Wild Swim at Infinity Pools
The Buttermere Infinity Pools offer a unique wild swimming experience with stunning views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Buttermere is overwhelmingly praised for its stunning natural beauty, offering some of the most scenic walks in the Lake District. Visitors rave about the diverse landscapes, from the tranquil lake to challenging fells, and the accessibility of the main circular route. Some minor drawbacks include narrow, challenging access roads and occasional parking difficulties during peak times.
"Buttermere was our first stop on a trip to the Lakes, and it certainly set our expectations high for the trip. We did the 2hr circular walk around the lake, and I think it might be one of the best walks and locations we have ever done. It's a perfect mix of mountain views, forest covered areas and the beauty of the lake itself. It's easy to follow the route round, and accessible for a variety of walkers as it is a mostly flat walk (no major hill climbs) . Would reccomend stopping here wether it be for a walk or even just to appreciate the scenic views."
Charlotte Scarrow
"This has to be one of the most scenic circular walks in the Lake District!
Access for us was via Keswick and the Honister Pass which is single track with passing places, and not particularly for the faint hearted. We parked at the farm just prior to Buttermere itself, where day parking is £4.00. From here there is easy access down to the walk which is well signposted.
The walk can be done either way around, but we did it so the first part was on the opposite shore to the road that runs parallel with the lake. For the most part the walk is flat on well trodden and well maintained paths. Given the rain in previous weeks, whilst it was a little muddy in places, nowhere was it really bad.
The views around the valley are amazing in clear skies and we had fantastic weather so no complaints.
The route to the village centre at Buttermere is around 3 miles, with a good cafe in the centre with a decent menu and service at reasonable prices. There is a pub (or two I think) but I can't speak on these.
Rejoining the circular path the route runs very close to the lake, although on this side the path is a bit more up and down, and slightly more strenuous with many tree roots and rocks on the path, so good footwear is advisable.
We found that the walk was closed around three quarters of the way round due to a rockfall, but no-one seemed to be taking any notice of the signage and warning tape, so the risk is on you as to whether you keep going (as we did) or turn back!!
Eventually the path rejoins the road around 500mtr from the farm car park (where during the summer there is an ice cream van stationed (at weekends at least). Care is required on the road as there is practically no verge to walk on.
In all the walk is around 5 miles (it does say it is 4.5m in most of the guides, but I think this is a slight underestimate given my step count!!
Anyway, it is well worth doing this walk, and if you don't fancy the return back through the Honister Pass, there is an option to drive past Buttermere and Crummock Water, and take the Whinlatter Pass back to Keswick and tne A66."
Rich C
"Beautiful place had a walk in the hillside the views from any of the surrounding Fell are absolutely breathtaking. I would definitely recommend Buttermere for Fell walkers and anybody else for that matter just a very beautiful place."
Brian Orson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Buttermere is accessible by car, often via scenic but narrow roads like Honister Pass or Whinlatter Pass. Public transport options are limited, but buses do run to the area.
Honister Pass is a single-track road with passing places and can be challenging for nervous drivers. Consider alternative routes if you're not comfortable with steep, narrow roads.
From Keswick, you can drive via Honister Pass or Whinlatter Pass. The drive offers spectacular views but requires careful navigation.
Limited bus services operate to Buttermere, but they are infrequent. Checking local bus timetables is essential if relying on public transport.
The main parking areas are Gatesgarth Farm car park (cash only, around £4-£5) and the National Trust car park in Buttermere village (free for NT members). These can fill up quickly.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no entrance fee to access Buttermere Lake or its surrounding walking paths. Parking fees apply at designated car parks.
Buttermere is a natural landscape and is accessible at all times. However, visitor facilities like cafes may have specific opening hours.
No, tickets are not required for the walks around Buttermere. It's a public access area.
The Buttermere Infinity Pools are a natural feature and do not have an entry fee. Access is via public footpaths.
Parking at Gatesgarth Farm typically costs around £4-£5 for the day and is usually cash only.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
The circular walk around Buttermere Lake is approximately 4-5 miles, mostly flat, and well-maintained, offering diverse views of the lake and fells.
The Buttermere horseshoe is a challenging hike with significant elevation gain and rocky sections, requiring good fitness and navigation skills. +1
Wild swimming is popular at the Buttermere Infinity Pools, but swimming directly in Buttermere Lake itself may be restricted or discouraged in certain areas.
Yes, there is a cafe in Buttermere village offering food and drinks, and a pub. An ice cream van is often present at weekends during summer.
Sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended due to potentially rocky and muddy paths, especially on higher trails.
📸 📸 Photography
Key spots include the lake shore for reflections, the Buttermere Infinity Pools, Scale Force waterfall, and viewpoints from the surrounding fells like Haystacks.
Early mornings offer calm waters for reflections, while golden hour (sunrise/sunset) provides beautiful light on the fells.
Yes, Highland cows are often seen grazing near the lake and are a popular subject for photographers. Remember to keep a respectful distance.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife. A polarizing filter can enhance reflections and sky colors.
While not specific tours, local photography guides or apps like GoGuide UK can offer routes and tips for capturing the best of Buttermere.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, and consider a picnic by the lake. The cafe in Buttermere village is also a good option for a break. While the main lake walk is accessible, more challenging hikes like the Buttermere Horseshoe are not recommended for young children due to the steep ascents, rocky terrain, and potential exposure. Stick to the lower-level paths and enjoy the stunning, accessible beauty of the lake itself.
🚶 Hikers and Adventure Seekers
Don't miss the opportunity to explore Scale Force Waterfall via its accessible path, or seek out the Buttermere Infinity Pools for a unique wild swimming adventure. These spots offer a more rugged and adventurous side to Buttermere, rewarding those willing to explore off the beaten path.
📸 Photographers and Nature Lovers
The Buttermere Infinity Pools are a particularly photogenic spot, offering a unique natural feature with dramatic backdrops. Keep an eye out for the Highland cows that are a beloved subject for many visitors, adding a touch of rustic charm to the landscape.
The varied terrain, from serene lake shores to rugged mountain peaks and cascading waterfalls, provides endless opportunities for capturing stunning natural beauty. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Buttermere Horseshoe Hike
Many adventurers consider this one of the most rewarding hikes in the region. The terrain can be rocky and boggy in places, making sturdy hiking boots non-negotiable. The descent from Haystacks, in particular, can be challenging. It's crucial to be prepared for all weather conditions, as the fells can be unpredictable.
For those seeking an even more remote experience, the Warnscale Bothy is a popular stop along the horseshoe route. This basic shelter offers a unique sense of accomplishment and a place to rest while soaking in the incredible scenery.
Remember to check weather forecasts and inform someone of your route before setting off on this serious mountain undertaking. Discovering Buttermere's Hidden Gems: Infinity Pools & Waterfalls
+1Accessing these pools typically involves a hike up Scarth Gap Pass, making it a rewarding discovery after a moderate climb. The area feels like a secret oasis, especially when bathed in sunlight. It's a testament to the 'hidden gems' that the Lake District is famous for.
+1Another must-see is Scale Force Waterfall, one of the tallest in the Lake District. The walk to Scale Force is generally considered easier, around 2 miles, with less incline and a well-maintained path. It's a beautiful spot to experience the raw power of nature, especially after rainfall, and offers a different kind of natural beauty compared to the serene lake.
The Charm of Buttermere Village and Lakeside Strolls
Along the walk, you'll encounter varied scenery, from open lakeside paths to wooded sections. The views are consistently breathtaking, with the imposing fells of Fleetwith Pike, Haystacks, and High Crag forming a dramatic backdrop. Keep an eye out for the iconic Highland cows that often graze peacefully by the water's edge, adding a quintessential Lake District charm to the landscape.
For refreshments, the village offers a cafe with a decent menu and reasonable prices, as well as a pub. During the summer, an ice cream van is often stationed near the car park on weekends, providing a delightful treat after a walk.
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