The 10 best walks around Buttermere

Why we love it: Starting right from Hassness, this circular route showcases everything that makes Buttermere special without the high fell commitment.

The well-maintained path takes you past waterfalls tumbling into the lake, through ancient woodlands, across wildflower meadows, and along pebble beaches. There's even a rocky tunnel to duck through. Early morning or evening walks offer the best chance of perfect reflections on the water – bring your camera.

Good to know: The path is mostly flat and well-trodden, though it can be muddy after rain, particularly in the woodland sections.

Why we love it: This walk offers two routes in one. Both take you through the tiny village of Buttermere and alongside Crummock Water, then you choose your own adventure.

The valley route wanders up Rannerdale Valley – famously carpeted with bluebells in early May – before descending through a delightful glen with waterfalls and woodland. The Knotts route involves a steeper climb but rewards you with expansive views reaching the Irish Sea on clear days.

Good to know: If bluebells are your goal, aim for early to mid-May. The Knotts route requires sure footing on some steeper sections.

Via Rannerdale Knotts:
Distance: 10km (6.2 miles) | Height gain: 350m (1,280 feet) | Time: 3.5-4.5 hours

Why we love it: Buttermere's neighbouring lake deserves equal attention but sees far fewer walkers, meaning you'll often have stretches of the path to yourself.

The route around Crummock Water varies wonderfully in height and terrain, keeping things interesting throughout. The northern end features fish ladders and secluded beaches – perfect for a lunch stop. On your return, a short detour lets you glimpse Scale Force, the Lake District's highest single-drop waterfall, though trees often obscure the full spectacle.

Good to know: This is a longer walk with some elevation changes. The Scale Force detour adds both distance and height, but it's worth it if you have the energy.

Standard route:
Distance: 15.5km (9.6 miles) | Height gain: 180m (590 feet) | Time: 4.5-5.5 hours

Why we love it: Want a taste of the high fells without committing to the biggest climbs? This route takes you to Bleaberry Tarn, a classic glacial tarn cradled in a dramatic mountain setting.

You can simply walk up and back the same way, or continue over the col by Dodd and descend via Scale Force for a satisfying circuit. It's steep in places, but the path is clear and the views from the tarn are spectacular.

Good to know: This walk requires more fitness than the first three. Save it for a clear day when you can appreciate the mountain scenery. The path can be loose and rocky in sections.

Via Gatesgarth:
Distance: 12.8km (7.9 miles) | Height gain: 690m (2,263 feet) | Time: 4.5-5.5 hours

Via Buttermere Village:
Distance: 10.3km (6.4 miles) | Height gain: 640m (2,100 feet) | Time: 4-5 hours

Why we love it: While nearby Haystacks draws the crowds, this route takes you into Ennerdale – one of the Lake District's most remote and unspoilt valleys.

Climb to Scarth Gap, descend to Black Sail Youth Hostel (once a lonely shepherd's hut, now the most remote youth hostel in England), then climb steeply up Loft Beck. From here, you have options: descend directly, explore the fascinating remains of the Drum House and Dubs Quarry slate workings, or head to Honister slate mine for refreshments and catch the bus back.

Good to know: The remoteness is part of the appeal, but it means you're far from help if things go wrong. The climb up Loft Beck is steep and sustained. If you're planning the Honister bus option, check timetables in advance.

Why we love it: Alfred Wainwright famously said 'a man could forget a raging toothache on Haystacks' – high praise from the legendary fellwalker, whose ashes were scattered at Innominate Tarn.

This is the classic Hassness walk. After following Buttermere's shore to Gatesgarth Farm, you climb to Scarth Gap, then up (with a couple of short scrambles) to Haystacks' knobbly summit. The top is a wonderland of pathways, rocky outcrops, and hidden tarns – Innominate Tarn is the jewel. You can extend the walk by adding Brandreth and Grey Knotts, which offer different perspectives looking back down on Haystacks.

Good to know: The scrambles aren't technical but do require you to use your hands. The summit plateau can be confusing in mist – good navigation skills essential. Multiple descent options mean you can vary your route on repeat visits.

Standard route:
Distance: 12.3km (7.6 miles) | Height gain: 630m (2,065 feet) | Time: 5-6 hours

Why we love it: This is the ridge you see from every window at Hassness Country House, with waterfalls cascading down the mountainside. Walking it gives you an entirely different perspective.

The initial climb up Red Pike is steep and unrelenting, but once on the ridge, you're rewarded with wide, grassy walking and constantly changing views over lakes, tarns, cliffs, and ravines. Each summit – Red Pike, High Stile, and High Crag – reveals something new. The descent from High Crag is also steep but made manageable by well-placed rocky steps.

Good to know: The steep ascent and descent require good fitness. There's some exposure on the ridge – not for those uncomfortable with heights. On a clear day, this walk offers some of the finest views in the Lakes.

Distance: 14.1km (8.8 miles)
Height gain: 920m (3,018 feet)
Time: 6-7 hours

Why we love it: This is a proper mountain day – long, remote, challenging, and utterly rewarding. Great Gable and Green Gable tower majestically above Ennerdale, and this circular route from Hassness takes you via Brandreth, Green Gable, and Windy Gap, returning via Black Sail and Scarth Gap.

The walking is steep and rough in places, crossing wild terrain far from roads or buildings. But for experienced fellwalkers on a fine day, this offers everything you could want: variety, challenge, stunning scenery, and deep satisfaction.

Good to know: Only attempt this in good weather with proper equipment and navigation skills. Start early – it's a long day. Take plenty of food and water. This walk represents a significant commitment and shouldn't be underestimated.

Distance: 16.3km (10.1 miles)
Height gain: 1,035m (3,395 feet)
Time: 7-8 hours

Why we love it: These are the mountains behind Hassness – wide ridges connecting airy summits with that wonderful feeling of space and freedom the Lake District fells provide.

The route climbs from Buttermere village across Buttermere Moss to Robinson, then continues over Hindscarth to Dale Head. The ridge walking is superb, and you can catch the bus home from Honister Pass – a welcome option for tired legs at the end of a big day.

Good to know: This is another serious fell walk requiring fitness, experience, and good conditions. The bus from Honister saves you the descent, but check the timetable – missing the last bus means a long walk home.

Distance: 12.4km (7.7 miles)
Height gain: 910m (2,985 feet)
Time: 5.5-6.5 hours

Why we love it: Buttermere's northwestern neighbour, Loweswater is quieter and offers a wonderfully varied circular walk – not around the lake itself, but along the hillside above it.

The path gives you the perfect vantage point for views without serious climbing. After enjoying the elevated section, descend through woodland along the lakeshore. The Kirkstile Inn, a classic Lakeland pub, makes an ideal refreshment stop. Take the bus to and from Lanthwaite hamlet to start and finish.

Good to know: Despite the distance, this walk doesn't involve as much climbing as you might expect. The path is generally good, making this an accessible way to enjoy the quieter northwestern lakes. The bus journey is short and scenic.

Distance: 16.7km (10.4 miles)
Height gain: 375m (1,230 feet)
Time: 5-6 hours