Attractions and Places To See around Buttermere - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Buttermere. This region, nestled in the Lake District National Park, is characterized by its U-shaped glacial valley and three prominent lakes: Buttermere, Crummock Water, and Loweswater. It offers a diverse range of natural features and historical sites for exploration. Visitors can engage in outdoor activities while experiencing the area's unique landscape.
Best attractions and places to see around Buttermere
- The most popular attractions is Combe Gibbet, a man-made monument that was erected…
Last updated: May 9, 2026
Combe Gibbet
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Crofton Locks and Pumping Station
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Kennet and Avon Canal Path
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Faccombe Road Climb Through Faccombe Wood
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Wolfhall Manor
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Replacements and Legacy: The original gibbet from 1676 eventually deteriorated. The current gibbet is actually the seventh to stand on the site. Previous versions were replaced due to rotting, being struck by lightning, vandalism, or being blown down by strong winds. The current replica was erected in 1992. While the gibbet was only ever used for the display of George Bromham and Dorothy Newman, its grim history has made it a local landmark and a popular spot for walkers, hang-gliders, and paragliders, offering expansive views across Berkshire, Hampshire, and Wiltshire. The story of the murders even inspired a 1948 silent film called "The Black Legend," made by a young John Schlesinger.
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The Gibbet's Purpose: After their execution, their bodies were brought back to Inkpen and prepared for public display. A large, double gibbet was hastily erected on the long barrow. The bodies of George and Dorothy, bound in chains, were then displayed on either side of the gibbet on March 6, 1676, as a stark and gruesome warning to the local community to deter similar crimes. The location was chosen due to its prominence and being on the border of the two parishes, as there was a dispute over which parish should bear the cost of the gibbet.
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The Murders and Gibbeting: The Crime: George Bromham, a married farm labourer from Combe, and Dorothy Newman, a widow from Inkpen, were having an illicit affair. To be together, they murdered George's wife, Martha Bromham, and their son, Robert. Accounts vary, but it's believed they waylaid Martha and Robert and beat them to death with staves near where the gibbet now stands. One dramatic, though likely far-fetched, version suggests George killed his wife by thrusting her head into a hornet's nest. The Witness: The crime was reportedly witnessed by a villager known as "Mad Thomas," who alerted the authorities. Trial and Execution: George Bromham and Dorothy Newman were tried at Winchester Assizes. They were found guilty and hanged in Winchester on March 3, 1676.
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Kennet and Avon Canal path is a lovely section with plenty of room to pass walkers, be respectful and use a bell
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Crofton Pumping Station advertises that it has the oldest working steam engine in the world. The idea was actually to route the canal through a mountain at a lower altitude using a tunnel. But this project was too expensive and too complex. That's why the pumping station was built. It once reliably filled the canal with water at the geographically highest points of the route.
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Lovely little climb up to faccombe. Especially pretty in the autumn when the leaves are changing colour. Not a long climb, provably about 5 mibs of effort for most. Be careful if descending, pheasants and deer like to hang out around here. The pheasants can be Especially kamikaze at times.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What natural attractions can I explore around Buttermere?
The Buttermere area is rich in natural beauty. You can enjoy the tranquil waters of Buttermere Lake, known for its scenic 4.5-mile circular walk and opportunities for wild swimming. Nearby, Crummock Water offers stunning views and is fed by Scale Force, the tallest waterfall in the Lake District. Don't miss Sourmilk Gill, an impressive waterfall visible from the Buttermere lakeshore walk, or Moss Force, which can be viewed from Newlands Pass. For panoramic vistas, consider a challenging hike up Fleetwith Pike or Haystacks, Alfred Wainwright's favorite fell.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to visit in the Buttermere area?
Yes, the region has several historical points of interest. You can visit Combe Gibbet, a historic monument erected in 1676 with a macabre past and expansive views. Another significant site is Crofton Locks and Pumping Station, featuring a set of nine locks on the Kennet and Avon Canal and one of the oldest working steam engines in the world. The area also has ancient remains from Neolithic or Bronze Age settlements, and St. James' Church in Buttermere village holds a memorial to Alfred Wainwright.
What are some family-friendly activities available around Buttermere?
Families can enjoy the relatively easy and level 4.5-mile circular walk around Buttermere Lake, which includes a small tunnel carved into rock. The Crofton Locks and Pumping Station is also family-friendly, offering a cafe, gift shop, picnic area, and opportunities to see wildlife. The picturesque tree-lined Avenue to Littlecote House provides a pleasant stroll to view the exterior of a historic Tudor manor.
What kind of outdoor activities, like hiking or cycling, can I do near these attractions?
The Buttermere area is excellent for outdoor activities. For hiking, you can explore easy trails like those found in our guide to Easy hikes around Buttermere. Cyclists can enjoy the Kennet and Avon Canal Path or find routes in our guide to Road Cycling Routes around Buttermere. Mountain biking enthusiasts can discover trails in our guide to MTB Trails around Buttermere. Honister Pass is also a popular starting point for various hiking and cycling routes.
Where can I find the best viewpoints in the Buttermere region?
For breathtaking views, head to Combe Gibbet, which offers expansive vistas from its prominent location on Gallows Down. The circular walk around Buttermere Lake provides stunning perspectives of the surrounding mountains. Crummock Water also offers beautiful views, and Lanthwaite Wood provides panoramic scenes of Crummock Water and the fells. Challenging hikes up Fleetwith Pike and Haystacks are rewarded with sweeping panoramic views across the valley.
Are there any unique or hidden gems to discover in Buttermere?
Beyond the main attractions, you might enjoy seeking out the Buttermere Infinity Pool, a natural pool on the hills above Buttermere offering stunning views and a refreshing dip. Holme Force, also known as the Grey Mare's Tail, is a rarely visited waterfall near Loweswater. In late spring and early summer, Rannerdale Knotts is famous for its spectacular display of bluebells in what is often called the 'Secret Valley'.
What is the best time of year to visit Buttermere for walks and scenery?
Buttermere offers beauty year-round, but late spring and early summer are particularly popular for the vibrant bluebell display at Rannerdale Knotts. Autumn is also highly recommended, especially for scenic drives or walks through areas like Faccombe Road Climb Through Faccombe Wood, when the leaves are changing color. The tranquil lakes and fells provide stunning scenery in any season, though conditions can vary.
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see in the Buttermere Valley?
Buttermere and Crummock Water are Sites of Special Scientific Interest, making them excellent for wildlife spotting. Keep an eye out for otters, red squirrels, and rare Ice Age fish like the Arctic Char. Birdwatchers may spot great crested grebes, various duck species, and sandpipers. You'll also frequently encounter the iconic Herdwick sheep, endemic to the Lake District, grazing in the fells.
Where can I find refreshments or places to stay in the Buttermere area?
Buttermere Village is a small hamlet that serves as an ideal base for exploring. It features traditional stone-built cottages, two pubs (The Bridge Inn and The Fish Inn), and cafes where you can find refreshments. The Fish Inn was historically known as The Maid of Buttermere's Cottage. The Crofton Locks and Pumping Station also has a cafe and gift shop.
Are there any adventurous activities available near Buttermere?
For those seeking adventure, the Honister Slate Mine, located at the top of Honister Pass, offers unique experiences. It's the last working slate mine in England and provides guided tours, slate workshops, and adventurous activities like Via Ferrata, which involves scaling the crags of Fleetwith Pike using old miners' tracks. Wild swimming is also popular in the clear, cold waters of Buttermere Lake and the Buttermere Infinity Pool.
What makes the Buttermere Tunnel noteworthy?
The Buttermere Tunnel is a distinctive feature of the circular walk around Buttermere Lake. This 15-meter (50-foot) tunnel was carved out in the 19th century and is part of the lakeshore path. It can be dark and wet inside, adding a unique and memorable element to the walk, so bringing a torch can be useful.
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