Top 20 Waterfalls around Buttermere

Beyond the popular spots, you can discover several other captivating waterfalls. Scale Force is renowned as the tallest waterfall in the Lake District, plunging over 50 meters. Moss Force offers dramatic cascades easily viewed from the roadside near Newlands Hause. For a powerful spectacle, especially after rain, visit Sourmilk Gill, which descends dramatically from Bleaberry Tarn. A more tranquil experience awaits at Holme Force, nestled within Holme Wood.

Yes, several spots are popular for wild swimming. Black Moss Pot is a well-known gorge with a deep pool, often frequented by swimmers. Moss Force also features a large pool in its middle section that is popular for wild swimming.

Moss Force is one of the easiest to reach, with impressive views directly from the roadside near Newlands Hause, requiring only a short walk. Holme Force also offers a gentle walk into Holme Wood to its base, providing a peaceful experience.

For those seeking a challenge, Foxes Rake (Foxes Tarn Gully) is a scramble route between Scafell Pike and Sca Fell, following a gully with water. It requires careful navigation over potentially wet and slippery rocks. The steep, pitched footpath alongside Sourmilk Gill leading up to Bleaberry Tarn also offers a rewarding, albeit challenging, hike.

The waterfalls are particularly impressive after heavy rainfall, when the water flow is at its most dramatic. This is especially true for Scale Force, Moss Force, and Sourmilk Gill. During dry periods, the flow might be reduced. In winter, routes like Foxes Rake can become icy, requiring extra caution.

Yes, the main path that follows Stickle Ghyll Waterfalls is suitable for all ages, though it can be rocky with some big steps. Kids often enjoy the scramble and reaching the tarn at the top. The gentle walk to Holme Force in Holme Wood is also a good option for families seeking a peaceful outing.

Beyond the cascades themselves, you'll encounter deep gorges, natural pools, and towering cliffs. The area is rich in lush greenery, especially around secluded spots like Scale Force. You'll also experience the dramatic fells and the serene waters of Crummock Water and Loweswater, which many of these forces feed into.

The Buttermere area offers a variety of outdoor activities. You can explore numerous cycling routes, including challenging options like the Buttermere, Crummock Water & Derwent Water loop, or moderate ones around Crummock Water. For more information, see the Cycling around Buttermere guide. There are also gravel biking and mountain biking trails available, with routes ranging from moderate to difficult. Check the Gravel biking around Buttermere guide and MTB Trails around Buttermere guide for details.

Near Stickle Ghyll Waterfalls, the Sticklebarn pub is conveniently located. It's powered by a hydroelectric scheme halfway up the valley, offering a place to relax and refuel after your walk.

Visitors frequently highlight the opportunity for ghyll scrambling and gorge walking, particularly at Stickle Ghyll Waterfalls, where there are pools to wade through and waterfalls to climb. The deep pools at spots like Black Moss Pot are popular for swimming and jumping. Many also appreciate the challenging scrambles and the stunning views from routes like Foxes Rake, especially the unique experience of following a stream up a gully.

Yes, for Scale Force, a safer viewpoint is available from a footbridge where you can hear the powerful roar of the water. Moss Force offers some of the best views directly from the roadside. At Holme Force, you can view the cascades from a footbridge, providing a great vantage point.

Given the potentially wet and slippery conditions, especially after rain or on scramble routes, waterproof boots are highly recommended. For challenging routes like Foxes Rake, be prepared for wet hands and gloves from the rocks. Layered clothing is advisable to adapt to changing weather in the Lake District.