Butter Mountain
Good walks are even better shared.
Overview
Butter Mountain
Welcome to Butter Mountain, a delightful Marilyn in the heart of the Lake District, standing proudly at an elevation of 1234 metres! While not the highest, it's certainly one of the most charming peaks to take on as part of your hiking adventures.
Geology
The geology of Butter Mountain is mainly composed of sedimentary rocks, specifically sandstone, which has been sculpted by centuries of glacial erosion. The stunning ridges and valleys created by this natural artwork offer a visual feast for any altar of nature.
Routes
Butter Valley Trail
This moderate route spans 8.5 km, winding through lush valleys that are alive with wildflowers in spring. It's perfect for those who prefer a leisurely pace, with a chance to stop and take in the scenery.
Summit Ridge Path
For the more adventurous, the Summit Ridge Path is a steep and challenging ascent of 4 km. The hard work is well rewarded as you approach the summit, where the views from the top will leave you breathless — though we don't recommend pushing too far with that.
Summit Features
You can’t miss the sizeable cairn and the iconic trig point upon reaching the summit! Great for that all-important Instagram post.
Terrain Type
Expect a delightful mix of rocky and grassy terrain, peppered with boggy patches. Dress your feet wisely, as sturdy hiking boots will ensure your comfort on this varied landscape.
Views
From the top, the vistas are truly postcard-worthy. You can spot neighbouring giants like Skiddaw and Blencathra rising majestically in the distance. The best times for a view that might just knock your socks off are spring and early autumn when the skies are clearer and the colours are vibrant.
Hazards
As with any hike, it’s wise to keep an eye out for slippery rocks post-rain and be prepared for those fierce Lake District weather changes. Also, be cautious of the sheep — they’re not known for their navigation skills!
Access
Accessible from Buttermere village, there’s plenty of parking available for all your vehicles. Public transport options are limited to the summer months, so plan accordingly and hop on a bus from Keswick if you're relying on public transport.
Facilities
After your hike, treat yourself at the local café in Buttermere, renowned for its homemade cakes and refreshments. Plus, there are public toilets for those urgent pre-hike necessities.
History
The name 'Butter Mountain' is believed to derive from Norse. It speaks to the historical significance of farming in the area, and it’s steeped in local folklore that adds an air of mystery.
Enjoy your adventure on Butter Mountain, where the paths are set, and the views are waiting eagerly just for you!
Explore routes near Butter Mountain
Public walks starting within 80 km of this hill. Nearby does not mean a route reaches the summit; check its map and access before setting out.
Silent Valley to Ben Crom Dam: Reservoir Road Walk, County Down
View route
Tollymore Forest Park: Mountain and Drinns Trail
View route
Tollymore Forest Park: River Trail near Newcastle
View route
Castlewellan Forest Park: Lake, Arboretum and Mitchell's Lake Circuit
View route
Route planning notes
These notes describe possible approaches, not verified navigable routes or permission to cross land. Check current paths, local access rules and conditions before setting out.
Butter Valley Trail
A scenic route that meanders through lush valleys and offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks.
Summit Ridge Path
A steeper ascent leading from the east, rewarding with breathtaking views at the summit.
Make a day of it, together
Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.
Photo Gallery
View all
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J2728 : View SSE from Spaltha towards the Butter Mountain-Slievenamuck ridge
Eric Jones
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J2727 : The summit of Slievenamuck with the Spelga Dam and Reservoir below
Eric Jones
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J2728 : On Slievenamuck - view northeast along Ulster Way
Colin Park
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J2728 : The summit of Slievenamuck
Rossographer
Hill facts and local notes
Classifications
Elevation
504m
1,653 ft
Prominence
100m
Coordinates
54.1848, -6.0480
J274279
OS Map
29
At the Summit
At the summit, you'll find a sizeable cairn and a trig point that would make any map enthusiast's heart skip a beat.
Terrain & Geology
Butter Mountain primarily consists of sedimentary rock formations, particularly sandstone, shaped by glacial activities, which have created fascinating ridges and valleys.
Views & Scenery
From the summit, one can gaze across the picturesque valleys of the Lake District, with Skiddaw and Blencathra prominently visible.
History & Heritage
Name Origin
The name 'Butter' likely derives from the old Norse word 'býr', meaning a farm, indicative of the area's history of farming.
Historical Significance
Butter Mountain is steeped in local folklore, often associated with tales of lost sheep and eccentric hikers!
Getting There & Facilities
Check current local access restrictions, parking rules and transport timetables before travelling. These notes do not confirm public access to the summit.
Parking
There is ample parking at the nearest village of Buttermere, with a small fee.
Public Transport
Buses run from Keswick to Buttermere during the summer months.
Nearby Facilities
The local café in Buttermere offers delicious homemade cakes and light meals, and there are public toilets available.
Safety Information
Known Hazards
- Slippery rocks after rain, potential for sudden weather changes, and the odd lurking sheep who seems to have a mind of its own.
General Safety Tips
- Check weather conditions before setting out
- Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
- Let someone know your planned route
- Take a map, compass, and GPS device
- Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch
Hills
Some common questions about the hills answered
Are there group walks up Butter Mountain?
Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Butter Mountain through the maps
Are there other walkers around Butter Mountain?
Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Butter Mountain search or of course create your own walk for Butter Mountain
Can I organise a walk to Butter Mountain?
Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.
If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Butter Mountain.
How do I find a walk up this hill?
There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.
Can I suggest a new route up Butter Mountain?
Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.
Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Butter Mountain here
The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?
We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible
Community Discussion
Comments
Location
Grid reference: J274279
View on OpenStreetMapOpens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.
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Straight-line distance, not a walking route or confirmation of access.
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