Buttermere circular walk
Buttermere, Lake District
- Independent UK guide
- Free to use
- Affiliate links clearly labelled
- Updated October 2026
What to expect
This easy circular walk follows the shoreline of Buttermere, a small, perfectly proportioned lake surrounded by high fells. The path is mostly flat and well made, about four and a half miles in total, with views of Haystacks, Fleetwith Pike and the Honister crags. It is one of the best low-level walks in the Lake District, and suits families and anyone who wants a gentle day.
Tips before you go
- The path is level and mostly good, though sections can be rocky or wet, so wear decent shoes.
- Start early, as the car parks in Buttermere fill up in summer.
- Combine the walk with a pub lunch or ice cream in the village.
Book or plan it
Prices and availability change, so compare. These are affiliate links.
Where to base yourself
A lively Lakeland market town between lake and mountains
A weekend in Lake DistrictCumbriaEngland's biggest national park: lakes, fells and cosy villages
What to pack
Handy things people often forget. These are Amazon links, so prices and availability are set by Amazon.
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More kit guides: Walking gear Wet-weather gear Wild swimming gear
Related activities
Catbells is a small fell of about 451 metres above Derwentwater, and one of the most popular walks in the Lake District.
Wild swimming in the Lake DistrictButtermere, Derwentwater and Rydal Water, Lake DistrictThe Lake District has some of the most popular wild swimming in England, with lakes such as Buttermere and Derwentwater and small tarns in the hills.
Haystacks walkButtermere and Honister, Lake DistrictHaystacks is a small, craggy fell of about 597 metres that the writer Alfred Wainwright loved above all others, and where his ashes were scattered beside Innominate Tarn.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Buttermere walk suitable for children?
Yes. It is mostly flat, about four and a half miles, and the lake gives plenty to look at, though little legs may tire.
Last reviewed October 2026. Prices, opening times and conditions change, so check with the provider before you go. Report an error or share a tip.