Buttermere Valley

You will be treated to stunning panoramic views that are a true sight to behold. With surrounding dramatic slopes, picturesque settlements, rugged landscapes and a series of waterfalls, it's a literal haven for nature lovers. There are 3 lakes in Buttermere Valley that offer a variety of amazing walks, from challenging to easy strolls! The valley is encircled by a manageable 4.5-mile walk, providing a scenic walk for families, its well-maintained, making it easy for strollers and little legs to navigate.

Along the way, the reflections of the surrounding peaks in the lake’s glassy surface create perfect photo opportunities. The lakes are also surrounded by fells and has a Victorian tunnel to wander through. Oh! Loweswater Lake is known to have deer and red squirrels to see! Can you catch a glimpse of them?

The tranquil scene doesn't stop there though... Head further into the Lake District's Buttermere Valley and you'll hear the thundering roar of the 100-metre high waterfall - Moss Force waterfall! But that's not the only waterfall! There's also Sourmilk Gill that thunders down just shy of 400m! And the tallest single-drop waterfall, Scale Force, with a whopping height of 170ft!

Psst...we've even heard there's a Buttermere Valley infinity pool! It's transcendent with its green/blue waters and it has an ethereal waterfall just behind it. The walk there is relatively easy and offers amazing views of Haystacks and surrounding fells. If you follow the signs to Honister House and up the gravel path, you'll eventually see a waterfall in the distance - that's where you need to head too! 

This hidden valley also has the most amazing beach-side views a half mile away from Lanthwaite Wood!

If you visit Buttermere Valley during May, you may see a carpet of beautiful bluebells alongside the breathtaking views of the scattering of farms and beautiful slate houses!

Buttermere Valley Activities

Enhance your family’s day out with a rowing experience on Buttermere Lake! Rowboats are available for hire, allowing you and your children to gently glide across the calm waters, a perfect activity for building teamwork or simply enjoying the tranquillity of the lake.  You can even go boating on the lake (with a permit), whether that includes canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards, windsurfers, inflatables or a normal boat! Although, motorised boats are not allowed. 

If you like fishing and can get a permit, you can also head out onto the lake and enjoy some fishing at this award-winning tourist attraction. Buttermere Valley makes for a calm fishing spot. 

The area around Buttermere is rich in wildlife. Keep an eye out for red squirrels, a rare sight in England, and teach your children about the local flora, including the colourful array of wildflowers that bloom in spring. There's also a wide range of fish like the brown trout, sea trout and salmon, otters that are rarely seen and all sorts of insects! 

Take a moment to visit the tiny Buttermere village itself, where the local church and the Bridge Hotel offer glimpses into rural English life. The village’s charm adds a cultural dimension to your visit, making it more than just a nature trip.

Food & Drink

After some exploring, treat your family to homemade ice cream at Syke Farm, just a short walk from the lake. Their locally sourced ice cream comes in various flavours, making it a delightful reward after a day of adventure. Or Buttermere Ayrshires Ice Cream for sweet and tasty ice cream - a well-deserved treat after a long day!

There's also a few places nearby like The Keswick Kitchen, Croft House Farm Cafe, The Bridge Hotel or the Wood House Buttermere - just to name a few!

Why We Think Buttermere Valley Is A Must-Visit

A visit to Buttermere Valley promises a mix of adventure, relaxation, and educational experiences that are perfect for families. It’s a place where childhood memories are made, surrounded by the awe-inspiring landscapes of one of England’s most beloved regions. With beautiful views, a mixture of easy and challenging routes to walk on and green fields as far as the eye can see it's a place that future generations can really appreciate. 

Engage your family in a day out at Buttermere Valley and experience the joy of the great outdoors together. This destination not only provides a day of fun and learning but also fosters a deeper connection with nature and each other.

"This is a stunning lake with beautiful waterfalls all along the route. It is approx a 5 mile round trip with walking trails on gravel paths, a small section of road and a section where you either wade through water or climb over a section of rocks, the rocks are slippery and sharp and the drop is approx 2-3ft." - Fiona