The best walks and hikes around Buttermere

Family-friendly shoreline rambles

The secret is out. Despite its secluded position, tucked away in the west of the Lake District, Buttermere is much loved and deservedly popular. Perhaps the classic walks around Buttermere are those that explore the lakeshore. If you want the trails to yourselves, weekends and public holidays are best avoided – though if this is not possible, start early. You’ll be richly rewarded with some of the most beautiful circular routes in the national park.

It makes for a glorious day out with the family and the dogs. The village of Buttermere is well equipped with a choice of pubs and tearooms for the post-walk bribery of an ice cream. If you’re hankering for a cheeky summit without detailed expedition planning, nearby Rannerdale Knotts is charming and boasts tremendous views across the mere. Just keep those dogs on a lead around sheep.

Some of Lakeland’s most scenic tarns

There’s a myriad of splendid objectives for your hikes around Buttermere. On a summer’s day, there is nothing better than dipping into a mountain tarn to cool off. Bleaberry Tarn is an absolute gem, tucked in the hollow between High Stile and Red Pike. Meanwhile, tarns are liberally scattered amongst the summit rocks of Haystacks, legendary guidebook writer Alfred Wainwright’s favourite fell.

The epic Western Fells

The best hiking trails around Buttermere are those that offer adventure up amongst the craggy Western Fells. You’re spoilt for choice, as magnificent mountain trails radiate from Buttermere like the spokes of a wheel. The imposing High Stile range dominates the mere and makes for an epic hike. Culminating in a 2,647-foot (807 m) summit, the view across wild Ennerdale to neighbouring giant Pillar is marvellous, whilst the extensive panorama of the Lake District’s peaks is sensational.

Buttermere is accessible by only three roads, two of which are over mountain passes: Honister and Newlands. A great way to quickly get up amongst the high trails is to park at the top of them and stride forth. Of course, the higher you go the colder and more severe the weather will be, so pack accordingly. Always be ready for rain regardless of a perfect forecast. In full winter conditions, the higher fells may require mountaineering skills and experience. If unsure, stick to lower objectives.