Top 20 Lakes around Buttermere
Best lakes around Buttermere are found within the Lake District, a region characterized by its glacial valleys, fells, and numerous bodies of water. The area features a mix of large lakes, smaller tarns, and reservoirs, all set amidst a dramatic natural landscape. This environment provides opportunities for various outdoor activities, from lakeside walks to fell ascents, contributing significantly to the region's natural beauty and ecological diversity.
Best lakes around Buttermere
- The most popular lakes is View from Walla Crag overlooking Derwent Water, a viewpoint that is a diminutive Wainwright summit providing vistas towards Catbells. What it lacks in height, it makes up for with splendid views across the lake towards shapely favourite, Catbells.
- Another must-see spot is View of Thirlmere from Raven Crag, a viewpoint offering rewarding views over Thirlmere. This spot is known for its unique alpine feel and a well-maintained stepped section to a wooden viewpoint balcony.
- Visitors also love Buttermere Lake, a lake that you can walk all the way round. The 4 mile (6 km) low-level path is generally easy and suitable for families, offering continuous views of the surrounding fells.
- Buttermere is known for its tarns, reservoirs, and larger lakes. The area offers a variety of water bodies, from high mountain tarns to accessible lakeside paths, suitable for different exploration types and family friendly walks Buttermere.
- The lakes around Buttermere are appreciated by the komoot community. Over 500 upvotes and more than 300 photos have been shared, showcasing the appeal of these locations.
Last updated: May 6, 2026
View from Walla Crag overlooking Derwent Water
Highlight • Viewpoint
Along with Latrigg, this is the easiest Wainwright summit to ascend directly from Keswick. It's not far from the picturesque and historic Castlerigg Stone Circle either, a classic vantage for Blencathra. Walla Crag can be linked with Bleaberry Fell and High Seat — a nice but often boggy fell walk.
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View of Thirlmere from Raven Crag
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Stickle Tarn
Highlight • Natural
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Low Brandlehow Jetty
Highlight • Lake
These cruises sail past Derwentwater's four islands, now owned by the National Trust and each with its own special history; Derwent Island, Lord’s Island, Rampsholme and St Herbert’s Island. The latter can be seen from the west shore, and is named after the saint who brought Christianity to the area in 685 AD. Legend tells us that on St Herbert's death on 20th March 687, his wish to die the same day as his great friend, St Cuthbert, was fufilled. After his death, the island he lived on as a hermit became a place of pilgrimage, and St. Herbert’s cell can still be identified amongst the undergrowth.
St Herbert’s is also the inspiration for the fictional Owl Island in Beatrix Potter’s ‘The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin’. Derwentwater and St. Herbert’s Island was also used as a filming location for the 1974 and 2016 Swallows and Amazons films.
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Keswick
Highlight • Settlement
A market town since 1276, Keswick hosts a market on Saturday and Thursdays near Moot Hall, the Tourist Information Centre. Keswick also has many cultural attractions such as the Keswick Museum and Art Gallery, the Theatre by the Lake and various festivals. You can find more information about the town, here: keswick.org
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Tips from the Community
Fantastic views from the top on a purpose built viewing platform
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It's a bit of a slog up there but absolutely worth it, the views are fantastic.
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Great views over Thirlmere and towards Helvelyn. A lovely location for a spot of lunch to take in the views.
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This walk came up as 'Easy' in the filters but I would say definitely 'Intermediate because of the steep ascent . Stunning views though so we'll worth it!
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Stunning view from above when looking down and beyond and also at the tarn ground level. Popular spot for wild swimmers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most scenic viewpoints overlooking lakes around Buttermere?
For splendid views, consider the View from Walla Crag overlooking Derwent Water, which offers vistas towards Catbells. Another excellent spot is the View of Thirlmere from Raven Crag, known for its rewarding views and unique alpine feel.
Are there family-friendly lakes or walks near Buttermere?
Yes, the area around Buttermere offers several options suitable for families. The intro mentions accessible lakeside paths around Buttermere itself. Additionally, the View from Walla Crag overlooking Derwent Water is categorized as family-friendly, offering an easier Wainwright summit ascent from Keswick.
Can I go wild swimming in the lakes around Buttermere?
Yes, wild swimming is possible in some locations. Stickle Tarn is specifically mentioned as offering opportunities for wild swimming. The Low Brandlehow Jetty on Derwentwater is also noted as a tranquil place for open water swimming.
What kind of outdoor activities can I do near the lakes around Buttermere?
The region provides opportunities for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, including the moderate 'Buttermere loop' and more challenging routes like 'High Stile Summit – Buttermere Lake loop'. For mountain biking, there are trails such as 'Scarth Gap Pass, Black Sail Pass and Seathwaite loop'. Running enthusiasts can also enjoy routes like the 'Buttermere loop'. You can explore more options on the Hiking around Buttermere, MTB Trails around Buttermere, and Running Trails around Buttermere guide pages.
Are there any easy walks near Buttermere?
Yes, the 'Buttermere loop' is a moderate hiking trail around the lake, approximately 7.8 km (4.8 miles) long, offering an accessible lakeside path. The ascent to Walla Crag is also considered an easier Wainwright summit to ascend directly from Keswick.
What do visitors enjoy most about the lakes around Buttermere?
Visitors frequently praise the incredible views and dramatic natural landscapes. For instance, the Crag Fell Summit is highlighted for its 'INCREDIBLE views over Ennerdale'. Many also appreciate the unique character of places like Stickle Tarn, described as one of the most dramatically situated and beautiful tarns.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Buttermere?
The region is characterized by glacial valleys, fells, and a variety of water bodies including large lakes, smaller tarns, and reservoirs. You'll encounter dramatic craggy landscapes, such as those surrounding Stickle Tarn, and expansive lake views from numerous viewpoints like Walla Crag.
What is the typical distance for a lakeside walk around Buttermere?
A popular circular walk around Buttermere, known as the 'Buttermere loop', is approximately 7.8 kilometers (4.8 miles) long. This moderate trail offers a full circuit of the lake.
Are there any historical or cultural points of interest near the lakes?
While the primary focus is natural beauty, the area does have historical connections. For example, near Derwentwater, St. Herbert’s Island (visible from the west shore) is named after a saint who brought Christianity to the area in 685 AD. Legend says he wished to die on the same day as St. Cuthbert. His cell can still be identified amongst the undergrowth, and the island inspired Beatrix Potter’s ‘The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin’.
What is the best time to visit the lakes around Buttermere?
The Lake District offers beauty year-round, but many visitors prefer spring and autumn for pleasant walking weather and vibrant scenery. Summer is popular for water activities, while winter can offer dramatic, snow-dusted landscapes for experienced hikers. Always check local weather forecasts before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly.
Are there any hidden gems or less-known spots worth exploring?
While the guide highlights popular spots, the region is full of smaller tarns and less-frequented paths. For instance, the intro mentions that Buttermere is known for its variety of water bodies, from high mountain tarns to accessible lakeside paths, suggesting there are many opportunities for discovery beyond the main attractions.
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