Easy hikes and walks around Crummock Water

There are over 100 easy hiking trails around Crummock Water, offering a variety of scenic routes. In total, the area features more than 500 hiking routes across all difficulty levels.

Yes, you can find easy trails leading to impressive waterfalls. For example, the Scale Force Waterfall – View of Crummock Water loop from Buttermere is an easy 1.8-mile (2.8 km) path that takes you to Scale Force, the Lake District's highest waterfall. Another option is the Buttermere Village – Sour Milk Gill Waterfall loop from Buttermere, which is also an easy walk.

Easy trails around Crummock Water generally feature lakeside paths, gentle ascents through valleys, and woodland tracks. While many paths are well-maintained, some sections, particularly on the west shore, can be boggy, especially after rain. Waterproof boots are recommended for comfort.

Absolutely. Many easy trails are suitable for families. The Rannerdale Knotts area offers an easier, family-friendly walk with fantastic views. Additionally, areas like Lanthwaite Wood provide pleasant, gentle strolls, some of which are even pushchair-friendly, leading to the northern shore of the lake.

Yes, many easy trails around Crummock Water are dog-friendly. However, please be mindful of livestock, especially during lambing season, and keep dogs on a lead in fields with sheep. Always clean up after your dog to help keep the trails enjoyable for everyone.

Yes, there are several easy circular walks. The Crummock Water – View of Crummock Water loop from Crummock Water is an easy 2.6-mile (4.2 km) trail that follows lakeside paths. Another option is the Buttermere Village – Crummock Water Shore loop from Buttermere, which offers a pleasant circular route along the shore.

Easy walks around Crummock Water typically have minimal elevation gain. For instance, the Crummock Water – View of Crummock Water loop from Crummock Water has an elevation gain of only about 27 meters. Even trails like the Scale Force Waterfall loop, while leading to a waterfall, maintain an easy grade with around 115 meters of ascent.

Easy walks offer stunning views of Crummock Water itself, reflecting the surrounding fells like Grasmoor and Mellbreak. You can also experience the dramatic Scale Force waterfall and, in late spring (late April to early May), witness the spectacular bluebell display in the Rannerdale Valley. Lanthwaite Wood provides serene woodland scenery.

The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for easy hikes, offering milder weather and longer daylight hours. Late spring is particularly special for seeing the bluebells in Rannerdale. While beautiful, be prepared for potentially boggy conditions on some paths, especially after rain, regardless of the season.

Parking is available at various points around Crummock Water. Lanthwaite Wood car park, managed by the National Trust, is a good option for accessing the northern shore. There are also car parks in nearby Buttermere village, which provide access to trails leading towards Crummock Water and Scale Force.

Public transport options are available, though they might be limited. The Honister Rambler bus route and the Buttermere Shuttle Bus often serve the area, connecting to Buttermere village, which is a common starting point for many walks around Crummock Water. It's advisable to check current schedules for specific stops and timings.

Yes, the nearby village of Buttermere offers options for refreshments, including cafes and pubs. The Kirkstile Inn, located near the start of the Kirkstile Inn – View of Grasmoor loop, is another popular spot for hikers to enjoy a meal or a drink after their walk.

The duration of easy walks varies, but many can be completed in a relatively short time. For example, the Crummock Water – View of Crummock Water loop takes about 1 hour 5 minutes, while the Kirkstile Inn – View of Grasmoor loop is typically completed in under 2 hours.