Buttermere stands as one of the most picture-perfect villages in the Lake District, and it proudly hosts one of the finest lake walks in the entire national park.
Just a short stroll from the village center, you will arrive at Buttermere Lake, a wide stretch of sparkling freshwater surrounded by dramatic fell scenery that delivers views you will never forget. 🌿
As you follow this gentle 4.5 mile trail, the crystal clear waters of Buttermere Lake mirror the sweeping, steep sided mountains that rise boldly around you, creating views that feel straight out of a dream. 🌄
Loved by families, this easy circular loop stays mostly flat without any truly demanding sections, which makes it ideal for almost everyone, no matter their experience level.
And the adventure does not stop there, because the surrounding fell walks and hidden nature paths open the door to a fresh experience every single time you return, keeping each visit exciting and full of discovery.
What is Buttermere famous for?
Since the early days of tourism in the Lake District National Park, Buttermere has captured hearts and earned its place as one of the most breathtaking and charming villages in the entire region. 🌿
Did you know the name Buttermere is believed to mean the lake by the dairy pastures, taken from the Old English phrase butere mere?
Welcoming thousands of visitors every year for its breathtaking setting among the northern fells, the village sits beside Buttermere Lake, which stretches 1.24 miles in length, 620 yards wide, and reaches a depth of 75 feet, offering walkers a beautifully scenic circular route that feels rewarding from start to finish. 🌄
For fell walkers chasing bold landscapes, the lake is wrapped by dramatic peaks including the striking High Stile to the south west, Robinson to the north east, Haystacks and Fleetwith Pike to the south east, and Grasmoor to the north west, creating an unforgettable panoramic backdrop in every direction.
Buttermere Lake Walk – Route info
Route Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 7km (4.5 miles)
Route Elevation: 67m
Start Point: Lake District National Park, Buttermere The English CA13 9UZ
Finish Point: Lake District National Park, Buttermere The English CA13 9UZ
How to get to Buttermere Lake?
Begin your walk from the iconic Bridge Hotel in the heart of the village, then follow the footpath to the left of Fish Inn opposite the car park, and stay on the clear trail as you pass through several gates until you arrive at the shores of Buttermere Lake. 🌿
As soon as you reach the water’s edge, you get to choose your direction for the circular route, either heading left or right along the shoreline, and if you ask me, taking the left side always feels like the winning move. 😉
Top tip: when you reach the far end of the lake you will find a mobile refreshment station at Gatesgarth Farm, which makes the perfect stop to relax, recharge, and soak in the dramatic hillside views with something refreshing in hand. 🌄
How long is the walk around Buttermere Lake?
With the full circular route stretching 4.5 miles, most walkers can comfortably complete it in under 3 hours while keeping a relaxed and easygoing pace.
On our last wander around Buttermere Lake, we stopped more than once to sit by the water, take in the stunning views, and still wrapped up the entire walk in around 2 hours without rushing a thing. 🌿
Where do you park to walk around Buttermere?
A small National Trust car park sits right in the center of Buttermere village, but it’s best to arrive early since spaces are limited and fill up quickly.
You can also find a tiny layby car park just past St. James Church, which offers free parking, though it tends to fill up just as fast. 🚗
National Trust Carpark Location:
Grid reference: NY 172 169
Nearest postcode: CA13 9XA
Pay and display prices:
| Time | Price |
|---|---|
|
Up to 2 hours |
£3.50 |
|
Up to 4 hours |
£6 |
|
Up to 12 hours |
£8 |
|
Full week |
£28 |
Alternatively, you can begin your walk from the far end of Buttermere Lake and use the Gatesgarth Car Park for convenient parking. 🌿
Gatesgarth Address: Cockermouth CA13 9XA
How difficult is the Buttermere Lake walk?
The circular trail stays mostly flat, with no steep climbs or tricky sections, and the footpath is generally well-marked and easy to follow. 🌿
A few things to keep in mind:
- Near Gatesgarth Farm, there’s a short and gentle scramble, but it’s easily manageable for most walkers.
- A small section of the path runs along Honister Pass. The road isn’t very busy, but there’s no pavement, so stay alert and give passing vehicles plenty of space.
- At one point, the lakeside path passes through a narrow rock tunnel. It’s short and safe for most, though anyone uneasy in tight or dark spaces might find it a little startling.
Can you walk right around Buttermere?
Yes, the circular route takes you completely around Buttermere Lake.
The path follows the lakeshore almost the entire way, only veering briefly along Honister Pass near Gatesgarth Farm.
Can you wild swim in Buttermere?
Indeed, Buttermere is a fantastic wild swimming location!
The crystal-clear waters, breathtaking scenery, and unmatched peace make Buttermere Lake one of the best spots for a refreshing dip. 🌊
You can take a plunge into the lake or even paddle out into the calm waters of Crummock Water just to the north-west of the village.
Warning – Always swim with a buddy and be extra cautious during colder months. If you’re new to wild swimming, make sure to check out safety tips before taking the plunge.
Crummock Water
The longest lake in the Buttermere Valley, Crummock Water offers visitors sweeping, stunning views over its sparkling freshwater. 🌄
A perfect destination after a leisurely walk around Buttermere Lake, Crummock Water is famed for its clear waters and is widely celebrated as a must-visit spot for both open water swimmers and adventurous wild campers.
Camping in Buttermere
Speaking of camping, on our last trip to Buttermere we had an amazing stay at Syke Farm Campsite. 🌿
This rustic, back-to-basics site offers just the essentials and sits right in the heart of the village, next to Buttermere Lake. It’s the perfect spot for anyone wanting to unplug from modern life and enjoy some classic country walking.
Other nearby spots to check out
Sour Milk Gill – Less than a mile from the village, Sour Milk Gill hides along a side trail off Buttermere Lake. Its unusual name comes from the frothy, white cascading waters, making it a charming detour for anyone wanting to stretch their lakeside walk. 🌊
Haystacks and Red Pike – If you veer off the main lake trail, you’ll find incredible fell hikes leading to the summits of Red Pike and Haystacks, Alfred Wainwright’s favourite fell and the very place where his ashes were scattered.
Buttermere and Alfred Wainwright
If you love fell-walking in the Lake District, then you probably know Alfred Wainwright!
Famous for his seven hand-drawn Pictorial Guides to the Lakeland Fells, Wainwright passed away in 1991, and you can pay your respects at a memorial in the quaint Church of St James.
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