Hidden Gems to find in Buttermere

Buttermere is a quiet, remote valley making it a perfect place to find hidden gems and secret places…

• Moss Force

A thin fall of water approximately 100 metres high standing on Moss Beck and flowing from the fell of Robinson form Moss Force at the bottom in three distinct sections of water. The best view of Moss Force is seen from Newlands Hause. A short path from the road leads you close to the falls but can be slippery. The top, highest section of the falls is also a hidden gem in itself, with the water splitting on the rocks falling into small crystal clear pool surrounded by Rowan trees.

• Scale Force

Scale Force is the tallest single drop waterfall in the Lake District. Despite its title, it is a shy waterfall hiding inside a narrow rocky gorge above Crummock Water.  In history, Victorians used to take a rowing boat from the opposite side of the lake and walk up to a set of wooden steps to see the waterfall. To get close to it today, you have to scramble up a big boulder, which is often slippery with moss. A safer viewpoint is available on a nearby footbridge; although the view is limited, you can hear the water roaring and echoing through the gorge.

• Holme Force

A lesser-known waterfall in the valley, Holme Force flows within Holme Wood beside Loweswater. A footpath rising through the woodland leads you to the base of Holme Force; a series of falls spouting from mossy rocks, which form little pools below. A picturesque scene looking as though it has been plucked from a fairy tale.

• Rannerdale Valley

Known as the ‘secret’ valley, Rannerdale Valley lies between Buttermere and Crummock Water. The valley is a special place for bluebells in the spring, covering the ground with blue and purple hues. Visitors are urged to take care when walking around the area and avoid standing on the flowers. Bluebells are slow growing and cannot photosynthesise if their leaves are crushed.

• St James’ Church

An ancient gem situated above the village of Buttermere, St James’ Church dates back to 1507 and is home to many special features and antiques. The churches organ dates back to 1820 and sits below stunning stained glass windows designed by Henry Holiday, a famous historical artist. The south window of the church is a memorial to Alfred Wainwright, framing his favourite mountain Haystacks with a stone tablet sitting below on the windowsill. William Wordsworth also spoke of the church in his work stating, ‘ a man must be very unsensible who would not be touched at the sight of the chapel of Buttermere.’