For those seeking a true mountain experience, this walk from the idyllic village of Buttermere is a must. A steep but well-made path takes you high above the valley to the stunning amphitheatre of rock containing Bleaberry Tarn. The views back over Buttermere and Crummock Water are sensational, providing the perfect reward for your efforts.
The Walk at a Glance
3 - 4 Hours
Incl. Dodd extension
5 Miles / 8 km
Steep ascent
Challenging
For fit walkers
Experienced Families
Best for teens+
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Start in Buttermere Village
Park at the National Trust car park in Buttermere (CA13 9XA). Walk through the village, passing the Bridge Hotel on your left. Take the path between the Fish Inn and the village church.
2. The Ascent Begins
Follow the clear, pitched path as it begins to climb steeply through Burtness Wood. This is the main ascent of the walk, a relentless but rewarding climb with the sound of Sourmilk Gill to your right.
3. Reaching Bleaberry Tarn
As you emerge from the woods, the path continues to climb. Eventually, the gradient eases, and the path swings right to reveal the magnificent Bleaberry Tarn, sitting in a corrie below the towering crags of Red Pike and High Stile.
4. Optional Extension to Dodd
For even better views, take the path that contours around the left side of the tarn and climbs to the saddle between Red Pike and Dodd. From the saddle, a short detour to the left takes you to the summit of Dodd (not to be confused with the other Dodd near Skiddaw), offering a superb aerial view of the tarn and the Buttermere valley.
5. The Descent
Whether you visit Dodd or not, the descent is a simple case of retracing your steps. Take care on the steep, stony path as you make your way back down through the woods to Buttermere village.
Visitor Information & Tips
- Parking: Buttermere has a National Trust pay-and-display car park and a smaller LDNPA car park. It gets very busy, so an early start is essential.
- Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots are a must for this walk due to the steep, rocky, and uneven terrain.
- Fitness: This is a challenging walk with significant ascent. A good level of fitness is required.
- Refreshments: Buttermere village has two excellent pubs (The Bridge Hotel and The Fish Inn) and a couple of cafes, perfect for a post-walk reward.
More to Explore Nearby
Walk Around Buttermere
For a much easier but equally beautiful walk, the 4.5-mile circular path around the shore of Buttermere lake is one of the best low-level walks in the Lake District.
Honister Pass & Slate Mine
Take a scenic drive up the dramatic Honister Pass. At the summit, you can tour the slate mine, have a go at the Via Ferrata, or just enjoy a coffee with a view.
Haystacks
From Buttermere, you can also tackle the iconic fell of Haystacks, the favourite of Alfred Wainwright, which lies at the head of the valley.