The best running trails around Buttermere

The Buttermere loop offers a scenic jogging experience around Buttermere Lake in the Lake District National Park. This route, considered difficult, covers 4.3 miles (7.0 km) with an elevation gain of 190 feet (58 metres), and you can typically complete it in about 47 minutes. You will enjoy continuous views of the lake, framed by dramatic fells like Haystacks and Red Pike, as you navigate mostly flat, well-trodden paths. Expect some rockier, uneven, and potentially muddy sections, especially in woodland areas or after rain, adding to the adventure.

Planning your visit to the Buttermere loop is straightforward, as Buttermere Village serves as a convenient starting and ending point. The village provides amenities such as hotels, pubs, cafes, and public toilets, making it easy to prepare for your run or relax afterward. The trail is generally accessible, but be aware that some parts can be muddy, particularly after rainfall, so appropriate footwear is advisable. This loop is popular and suitable for a wide range of fitness levels, making it a great choice for a refreshing jog.

What truly sets the Buttermere loop apart is its unique combination of natural beauty and interesting features. You will pass through the distinctive 50-foot long Hassness Tunnel, a rock tunnel carved through a cliff, which adds an element of surprise to the route. The ability to jog all the way around the lake provides uninterrupted views of the water and surrounding mountains, including impressive waterfalls like Sour Milk Gill. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, such as Herdwick Sheep, otters, and red squirrels, which often frequent the area.

Prepare for a challenging jogging experience on the Crummock Water & Rannerdale loop, a difficult trail covering 10.0 miles (16.1 km) with an elevation gain of 984 feet (300 metres), typically taking 2 hours and 1 minute to complete. You'll encounter varied terrain, from tranquil lakeside paths along Crummock Water to rough tracks and steep, stone-pitched sections, especially when descending Rannerdale Knotts. Expect boggy parts along the western shore, particularly after rain, and navigate narrow wooden bridges and open fields. The route offers dramatic views of the fells like Grasmoor and Mellbreak, alongside pleasant woodland paths in Lanthwaite Wood.

This difficult jogging route requires good to very good fitness, sure-footedness, and sturdy shoes due to its varied and sometimes challenging terrain. Be aware that sections along the western shore can be quite boggy, especially after rain, and steep, stone-pitched parts, like those on Rannerdale Knotts, may be slippery in wet weather. If you plan your visit for late April or early May, you'll witness the Rannerdale Valley transform into a magical carpet of bluebells, a particularly notable sight. Beginners might find some sections challenging.

Beyond the physical challenge, the Crummock Water & Rannerdale loop is celebrated for its panoramic views of Crummock Water, Buttermere, and the surrounding mountains. The Rannerdale Valley's vibrant bluebell display in late spring is a unique spectacle that draws many visitors. This area also offers a quieter alternative to some of the Lake District's more popular spots, providing a peaceful and tranquil experience. You can also access Scale Force, the Lake District's tallest waterfall, as a notable detour.

Lace up for the Crummock Water Circular Trail, a difficult jogging route that takes you around the scenic lake. You'll cover 8.1 miles (13.1 km) and gain 734 feet (224 metres) in elevation, typically taking about 1 hour and 34 minutes to complete. The path winds through varied terrain, from peaceful woodland sections to open lakeside trails, offering constant views of Crummock Water. Keep an eye out for the majestic fells like Grasmoor and Mellbreak rising around you. This route provides a challenging yet rewarding experience for those who enjoy a good jog with a view.

Before you head out, be aware that conditions on the trail can vary. Some sections along the western shore are known to be quite boggy, especially after rainfall, so waterproof footwear is a good idea. You might also encounter steep paths with slippery stones and patches of ankle-deep mud in certain areas. Parking is generally available near the trailhead, but always check local signage for any specific restrictions or fees before you leave your vehicle.

This circular route is particularly special in spring when the Rannerdale Valley, a unique feature along the trail, bursts into bloom with carpets of bluebells. The trail's proximity to the water's edge means you'll enjoy captivating vistas throughout your jog. It's a great way to experience the diverse natural beauty of the Lake District National Park, combining physical challenge with stunning scenery.