Buttermere

The small village of Buttermere sits in a beautiful valley between what Wainwright called the ‘Western’ and ‘The North Western’ fells and is perfectly positioned for some of the most amazing (and some quite strenuous) fell walks.

The most direct routes to Buttermere are either via Keswick then through Borrowdale and over Honister Pass or via Braithewaite then over Newlands Hause, though both routes involve some very small, single track, lanes. Alternatively, it is quite accessible from Cockermouth via the B5292 then the B5289.

The village itself lies between the two lakes of Buttermere and Crummock Water – the photo here shows the land between the two lakes Buttermere being the nearest with Crummock beyond. It is thought that the two lakes used to be one larger one until either silt or rockfall filled the middle. Suffice to say, whatever the reason for the separation, it provides an excellent site for what is now a very popular destination with those wanting to get out into the ‘great outdoors’. There are two popular hotels in the village, the Fish Inn and the Bridge Hotel plus there is a selection of seasonal providers of refreshments for the visitor.

Maybe as one would expect wildlife is in abundance. Both the lakes have national and international levels of protection because of the wildlife and are classed as either Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) or Special Areas of Conservation. The clear and cool waters are home to arctic char and brown trout whilst sea trout and salmon pass through to spawn in nearby becks. If you are very lucky you may even see signs of otters returning to the area. Of course there are many species of land animals and birds to be seen – see our Wildlife page for more information.

In the spring, nearby Rannerdale is famous for its glorious display of bluebells and after a good spell of rain the highest waterfall in the Lake District, Scale Force just to the south of Crummock Water, is well worth a visit.