The best waterfall hikes and walks around Buttermere

Buttermere offers a selection of 11 dedicated waterfall hiking trails. These routes vary in difficulty, with options ranging from easy lakeside strolls to more challenging mountain ascents, all featuring the area's beautiful cascades.

The tallest waterfall in the Lake District, Scale Force, is located near Buttermere. It plunges 170 feet within a secluded gorge and can be reached via scenic walks from Buttermere village along Crummock Water. You can explore it on routes like the Scale Force Waterfall – View of Crummock Water loop from Buttermere.

Yes, there are family-friendly options. The Scale Force Waterfall – View of Crummock Water loop from Buttermere is an easy 2.8 km trail that takes about 54 minutes to complete, offering a direct approach to Scale Force and views of Crummock Water. The Buttermere circular walk, while not exclusively a waterfall trail, also passes Sour Milk Gill and is generally considered easy and suitable for families.

Beyond the waterfalls, you'll encounter stunning natural features. Many trails offer views of Buttermere Lake and Crummock Water, and you can spot prominent fells like Fleetwith Pike and Haystacks. The area also features the picturesque 'Secret Valley' near Rannerdale Knotts and the iconic 'famous sentinels' – ancient pines at the southern end of Buttermere Lake.

Spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) are often highlighted as ideal times for hiking in Buttermere. Spring brings wildflowers, while autumn offers vibrant foliage, both enhancing the beauty of the cascading waterfalls. Summer also provides pleasant weather for exploring the trails.

Absolutely. For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, routes like the Scale Force Waterfall – Mellbreak Summit loop from Buttermere offer a difficult 20.6 km path with expansive views from Mellbreak Summit after passing Scale Force. Another demanding option is the Scale Force Waterfall – Great Borne Summit loop from Buttermere, covering 16.5 km with significant elevation gain.

The waterfall trails in Buttermere are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 2,500 reviews. Hikers frequently praise the breathtaking vistas of lakes and fells, the dramatic cascades of waterfalls like Scale Force, and the diverse terrain that offers something for every ability level, from gentle paths to strenuous mountain climbs.

Yes, many of the waterfall hikes in Buttermere are designed as circular routes, allowing you to experience varied scenery without retracing your steps. Examples include the popular Scale Force Waterfall – Red Pike (Buttermere) loop from Buttermere and the more challenging Scale Force Waterfall – Mellbreak Summit loop from Buttermere.

Beyond the waterfalls themselves, you can find several significant landmarks and viewpoints. The Haystacks Summit is a renowned natural monument offering spectacular views. Other nearby highlights include the Catbells Summit and the Little Man (Skiddaw) summit, providing expansive panoramas of the Lake District landscape.

Yes, the area offers some interesting historical elements. Along the Buttermere Circular route, you can find the Hassness Tunnel, a unique feature carved out in the 19th century. While not directly on a waterfall trail, it's part of the broader Buttermere hiking experience.

Buttermere village, which serves as a common starting point for many trails, offers amenities such as cafes and pubs where you can refresh before or after your waterfall hike. These establishments provide a convenient stop for food and drink.