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  • Monday - Friday9am - 5pm
  • Saturday9am - 1pm
  • SundayClosed
  • Bank HolidaysClosed

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Hassness House - Premier Buttermere Accommodation

Our country house accommodation in Buttermere, Lake District

Walking holidays at Hassness Country House, Buttermere, Lake District

Open March to December | 11 rooms | Full Board | Free on-site parking | Wi-Fi available | Boot room & drying room | Honesty bar | Lounge | Garden | Transfers from Penrith Railway Station | Walkers, outdoor enthusiasts & groups welcome | Unbeatable scenery

Looking for exceptional accommodation in Buttermere? Tucked away on the shores of Buttermere in the Lake District, with expansive views of the lake and the craggy fells beyond, stands Hassness House, our country house, one of the finest places to stay in Buttermere, specifically tailored to walkers and outdoor enthusiasts. We've operated Lake District walking holidays in this unique property for more than 65 years and it remains a perennial favourite with our guests for guided walking holidays and independent, self-guided walking breaks around Buttermere and the Western Fells. Although within easy reach of Keswick, this is one of the remotest parts of the Lake District, where local Herdwick sheep dot the hillsides and red squirrels can be seen in the woods. Wildflowers and seasonal blooms of bluebells provide pops of colour among the greens and browns of the hills and fells. And it is this landscape that you’re here for. 

If you're looking to get away soon, see our Lake District holidays with late availability. Or check to see where you could save with our range of special offers and discounted holidays based at Hassness House. Otherwise, browse our full range below.

See All Walking Holidays at Hassness Country House

Featured walking holidays at Hassness House

This was the favourite Lakeland location of legendary fellwalker and guidebook author Alfred Wainwright, and you’re in the perfect position to immerse yourself in the beauty of Buttermere and the Lake District. The madding crowds don’t come anywhere nearby, and the surrounding hills, including Red Pike and High Stile, Dale Head, High Spy and Haystacks, are generally less well stomped on a Lake District walking holiday than the more readily accessible peaks.

Classic
Hassness Country House (Guided Walking 2025)

Hassness Country House (Guided Walking 2025)
Location pin

Departure dates

  • 2025:
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
    • Dec

The English Lake District is one of the most beautiful and dramatic walking areas in this country. A compact area of mountainsides, summits and ridges, lakes and lakeside paths. We offer a wide range of guided trails to suit all walking abilities.

4.7 star Feefo rating
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Grade Moderate/Challenging
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Our holiday walking grades

Moderate

Grade 4

Usually, your walk will take up the whole day at a moderate pace. Terrain will often be hilly and paths generally good. Note that on holidays in mountainous areas, expect some rougher paths. An average walk length is 6 miles but expect this to vary from as little as 3 miles on a sightseeing day and up to 10 miles on a full day dependant on the amount of ascent and decent required.

Search all Moderate, Grade 4 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 6 miles; Ascent/Descent 500m; Terrain: sometimes hilly and undulating on good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Day walks. 

Challenging

Grade 7

These holidays are typically in mountainous areas where stamina is important to be able to enjoy longer days. There is plenty of ascent and descent on some rough and steep paths that require good footwear, a steady foot, and a good head for heights. Some days may be shorter in distance or ascent/descent, but the overall effort levels required are of a higher nature.

Search all Challenging, Grade 7 walking holidays  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 10 miles; Ascent/Descent 950m; Terrain: varied with rough, rocky and steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs+ / Long Days. 

Discover more about our walking grades

Landscape
From £379
3, 4, 5 or 7 Nights
Tour only
View Details
Classic
Wainwright Bagging Weekend Adventure
  • What's NewWhat's New

Wainwright Bagging Weekend Adventure
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Departure dates

  • 2026:
    • Jun
    • Sep

Explore the western fells of the Lake District from our country house base, and hike 13 Wainwright routes to bag classic summits from High Stile to Haystacks, and the Causey Ridge to Grassmoor.

5 star Feefo rating
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Grade Challenging
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Our holiday walking grades

Challenging

Grade 8

Our most challenging trips - hard mountain walking with long rewarding ascents, descents and maybe some scrambling. A good level of fitness, stamina, head for heights and experience of mountain walking is essential. 

Search all Challenging, Grade 8 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 11 miles; Ascent/Descent 1300m; Terrain: varied with rough, rocky and steep trails; Walking Time: 8hrs+ / Long Days. 

Discover more about our walking grades

Mountains
From £549
3 Nights
Tour only
View Details
Self-Guided
Hassness Country House (Self-Guided)

Hassness Country House (Self-Guided)
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Departure dates

  • 2025:
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct
    • Nov
  • 2026:
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct

Hassle-free adventures led by you, based at our own country house on the shores of Buttermere. Leisurely strolls to classic Lakeland ridge walks among the less-frequented western fells of the Lake District.

4.3 star Feefo rating
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Landscape
From £359
3, 4 or 7 Nights
Tour only
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Classic
Great Lakeland Ridge Walks

Great Lakeland Ridge Walks
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Departure dates

  • 2025:
    • Sep
  • 2026:
    • Apr

A challenging hiking holiday conquering the major peaks and high ridges in the Lake District for experienced mountain walkers.

5 star Feefo rating
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Grade Challenging
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Our holiday walking grades

Challenging

Grade 8

Our most challenging trips - hard mountain walking with long rewarding ascents, descents and maybe some scrambling. A good level of fitness, stamina, head for heights and experience of mountain walking is essential. 

Search all Challenging, Grade 8 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 11 miles; Ascent/Descent 1300m; Terrain: varied with rough, rocky and steep trails; Walking Time: 8hrs+ / Long Days. 

Discover more about our walking grades

Mountains
From £1,139
7 Nights
Tour only
View Details
Discover
Lakeland Explorer

Lakeland Explorer
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Departure dates

  • 2026:
    • Aug
    • Oct

Discover the majestic fells and tranquil waters of England's Lake District with a relaxed pace with ample sightseeing opportunities.

5 star Feefo rating
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Grade Leisurely
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Our holiday walking grades

Leisurely

Grade 3

We still class this level as leisurely; walks are generally a little longer than level 2, with undulations but over a longer distance. Where sightseeing distances are longer, we take a full day with opportunities to stop, rest and refuel. Generally, itineraries involve easy countryside walking with plenty of breaks.  

Search all Leisurely, Grade 3 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 4 miles; Ascent/Descent 300m; Terrain: generally good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Half Day or Full Day walks. 

Discover more about our walking grades

Culture
From £1,279
7 Nights
Tour only
View Details
Discover
Navigation & Hill Skills Course

Navigation & Hill Skills Course
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Departure dates

  • 2025:
    • Oct
    • Nov
  • 2026:
    • Mar
    • Oct
    • Nov

Master essential hill safety skills with our courses! Select from two comprehensive options to learn expert navigation techniques and earn your National Navigation Award Scheme certificate.

5 star Feefo rating
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Grade Moderate/Challenging
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Our holiday walking grades

Moderate

Grade 4

Usually, your walk will take up the whole day at a moderate pace. Terrain will often be hilly and paths generally good. Note that on holidays in mountainous areas, expect some rougher paths. An average walk length is 6 miles but expect this to vary from as little as 3 miles on a sightseeing day and up to 10 miles on a full day dependant on the amount of ascent and decent required.

Search all Moderate, Grade 4 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 6 miles; Ascent/Descent 500m; Terrain: sometimes hilly and undulating on good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Day walks. 

Challenging

Grade 6

Full day walks with appreciable amounts of ascent and descent and longer distances covered.  Whilst you will be mainly on paths, these may be rough, steep, and loose at times. We take the whole day to enjoy some fabulous walks.

Search all Challenging, Grade 6 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 8 miles; Ascent/Descent 850m; Terrain: sometimes rough, loose or steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs / Full Day walks. 

Discover more about our walking grades

From £449 was £499
3 or 4 Nights
Tour only
View Details
Discover
Yoga and Walking in the Lake District

Yoga and Walking in the Lake District
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Departure dates

  • 2026:
    • May
    • Jul

A scenic and relaxed break good for the body and soul, with afternoon yoga classes to help release tension and tightness following walks in the Lake District.

4.6 star Feefo rating
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Grade Moderate
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Our holiday walking grades

Moderate

Grade 4

Usually, your walk will take up the whole day at a moderate pace. Terrain will often be hilly and paths generally good. Note that on holidays in mountainous areas, expect some rougher paths. An average walk length is 6 miles but expect this to vary from as little as 3 miles on a sightseeing day and up to 10 miles on a full day dependant on the amount of ascent and decent required.

Search all Moderate, Grade 4 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 6 miles; Ascent/Descent 500m; Terrain: sometimes hilly and undulating on good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Day walks. 

Discover more about our walking grades

Wellness
From £699 was £759
4 Nights
Tour only
View Details
Discover
Restore, Reflect & Recharge in the Mountains

Restore, Reflect & Recharge in the Mountains
Location pin

Departure dates

  • 2026:
    • Jun
    • Sep

Escape with us to the beautiful Lake District for a few days and replenish your diminished energy and give yourself some time to reflect.

4.5 star Feefo rating
See all reviews
Grade Moderate
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Our holiday walking grades

Moderate

Grade 4

Usually, your walk will take up the whole day at a moderate pace. Terrain will often be hilly and paths generally good. Note that on holidays in mountainous areas, expect some rougher paths. An average walk length is 6 miles but expect this to vary from as little as 3 miles on a sightseeing day and up to 10 miles on a full day dependant on the amount of ascent and decent required.

Search all Moderate, Grade 4 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 6 miles; Ascent/Descent 500m; Terrain: sometimes hilly and undulating on good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Day walks. 

Discover more about our walking grades

Wellness
From £699
4 Nights
Tour only
View Details

2026 Walking Holidays at Hassness House

With Buttermere Lakes being renown for having one of the best views in Britain, it's no surprise you may want to book in advance with our 2026 walking holidays at Hassness House. With one of next year's adventures locked in early, you can simply focus on looking forward to making the most out of your upcoming Lake District adventure.

Classic
Hassness Country House (Guided Walking 3 nights 2026)

Hassness Country House (Guided Walking 3 nights 2026)
Location pin

Departure dates

  • 2026:
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct

The English Lake District is one of the most beautiful and dramatic walking areas in this country. A compact area of mountainsides, summits and ridges, lakes and lakeside paths. We offer a wide range of guided trails to suit all walking abilities.

Grade Moderate/Challenging
Close

Our holiday walking grades

Moderate

Grade 4

Usually, your walk will take up the whole day at a moderate pace. Terrain will often be hilly and paths generally good. Note that on holidays in mountainous areas, expect some rougher paths. An average walk length is 6 miles but expect this to vary from as little as 3 miles on a sightseeing day and up to 10 miles on a full day dependant on the amount of ascent and decent required.

Search all Moderate, Grade 4 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 6 miles; Ascent/Descent 500m; Terrain: sometimes hilly and undulating on good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Day walks. 

Challenging

Grade 6

Full day walks with appreciable amounts of ascent and descent and longer distances covered.  Whilst you will be mainly on paths, these may be rough, steep, and loose at times. We take the whole day to enjoy some fabulous walks.

Search all Challenging, Grade 6 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 8 miles; Ascent/Descent 850m; Terrain: sometimes rough, loose or steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs / Full Day walks. 

Grade 7

These holidays are typically in mountainous areas where stamina is important to be able to enjoy longer days. There is plenty of ascent and descent on some rough and steep paths that require good footwear, a steady foot, and a good head for heights. Some days may be shorter in distance or ascent/descent, but the overall effort levels required are of a higher nature.

Search all Challenging, Grade 7 walking holidays  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 10 miles; Ascent/Descent 950m; Terrain: varied with rough, rocky and steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs+ / Long Days. 

Grade 8

Our most challenging trips - hard mountain walking with long rewarding ascents, descents and maybe some scrambling. A good level of fitness, stamina, head for heights and experience of mountain walking is essential. 

Search all Challenging, Grade 8 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 11 miles; Ascent/Descent 1300m; Terrain: varied with rough, rocky and steep trails; Walking Time: 8hrs+ / Long Days. 

Discover more about our walking grades

Landscape
From £499
3 Nights
Tour only
View Details
Classic
Hassness Country House (Guided Walking 4 nights 2026)

Hassness Country House (Guided Walking 4 nights 2026)
Location pin

Departure dates

  • 2026:
    • Mar
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct

The English Lake District is one of the most beautiful and dramatic walking areas in this country. A compact area of mountainsides, summits and ridges, lakes and lakeside paths. We offer a wide range of guided trails to suit all walking abilities.

Grade Moderate/Challenging
Close

Our holiday walking grades

Moderate

Grade 4

Usually, your walk will take up the whole day at a moderate pace. Terrain will often be hilly and paths generally good. Note that on holidays in mountainous areas, expect some rougher paths. An average walk length is 6 miles but expect this to vary from as little as 3 miles on a sightseeing day and up to 10 miles on a full day dependant on the amount of ascent and decent required.

Search all Moderate, Grade 4 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 6 miles; Ascent/Descent 500m; Terrain: sometimes hilly and undulating on good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Day walks. 

Challenging

Grade 6

Full day walks with appreciable amounts of ascent and descent and longer distances covered.  Whilst you will be mainly on paths, these may be rough, steep, and loose at times. We take the whole day to enjoy some fabulous walks.

Search all Challenging, Grade 6 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 8 miles; Ascent/Descent 850m; Terrain: sometimes rough, loose or steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs / Full Day walks. 

Grade 7

These holidays are typically in mountainous areas where stamina is important to be able to enjoy longer days. There is plenty of ascent and descent on some rough and steep paths that require good footwear, a steady foot, and a good head for heights. Some days may be shorter in distance or ascent/descent, but the overall effort levels required are of a higher nature.

Search all Challenging, Grade 7 walking holidays  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 10 miles; Ascent/Descent 950m; Terrain: varied with rough, rocky and steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs+ / Long Days. 

Grade 8

Our most challenging trips - hard mountain walking with long rewarding ascents, descents and maybe some scrambling. A good level of fitness, stamina, head for heights and experience of mountain walking is essential. 

Search all Challenging, Grade 8 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 11 miles; Ascent/Descent 1300m; Terrain: varied with rough, rocky and steep trails; Walking Time: 8hrs+ / Long Days. 

Discover more about our walking grades

Landscape
From £589
4 Nights
Tour only
View Details
Classic
Hassness Country House (Guided Walking 7 nights 2026)

Hassness Country House (Guided Walking 7 nights 2026)
Location pin

Departure dates

  • 2026:
    • Apr
    • May
    • Jun
    • Jul
    • Aug
    • Sep
    • Oct

The English Lake District is one of the most beautiful and dramatic walking areas in this country. A compact area of mountainsides, summits and ridges, lakes and lakeside paths. We offer a wide range of guided trails to suit all walking abilities.

Grade Moderate/Challenging
Close

Our holiday walking grades

Moderate

Grade 4

Usually, your walk will take up the whole day at a moderate pace. Terrain will often be hilly and paths generally good. Note that on holidays in mountainous areas, expect some rougher paths. An average walk length is 6 miles but expect this to vary from as little as 3 miles on a sightseeing day and up to 10 miles on a full day dependant on the amount of ascent and decent required.

Search all Moderate, Grade 4 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 6 miles; Ascent/Descent 500m; Terrain: sometimes hilly and undulating on good paths and tracks; Walking Time: Day walks. 

Challenging

Grade 6

Full day walks with appreciable amounts of ascent and descent and longer distances covered.  Whilst you will be mainly on paths, these may be rough, steep, and loose at times. We take the whole day to enjoy some fabulous walks.

Search all Challenging, Grade 6 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 8 miles; Ascent/Descent 850m; Terrain: sometimes rough, loose or steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs / Full Day walks. 

Grade 7

These holidays are typically in mountainous areas where stamina is important to be able to enjoy longer days. There is plenty of ascent and descent on some rough and steep paths that require good footwear, a steady foot, and a good head for heights. Some days may be shorter in distance or ascent/descent, but the overall effort levels required are of a higher nature.

Search all Challenging, Grade 7 walking holidays  

Usual daily walks - Distance: 10 miles; Ascent/Descent 950m; Terrain: varied with rough, rocky and steep sections; Walking Time: 8hrs+ / Long Days. 

Grade 8

Our most challenging trips - hard mountain walking with long rewarding ascents, descents and maybe some scrambling. A good level of fitness, stamina, head for heights and experience of mountain walking is essential. 

Search all Challenging, Grade 8 walking holidays

Usual daily walks - Distance: 11 miles; Ascent/Descent 1300m; Terrain: varied with rough, rocky and steep trails; Walking Time: 8hrs+ / Long Days. 

Discover more about our walking grades

Landscape
From £1,029
7 Nights
Tour only
View Details

Walking Holidays around Buttermere in the Lake District

Classic Discover Adagio Self-guided

Guided Walking Holiday at Hassness House

Hassness House caters for walkers of all abilities – the gentle rambler seeking beautiful days out as well as the adventurous peak bagger. Choose from 3 or 4-night short breaks and 7-night stays throughout the year. On a guided walking holiday, let an experienced walk leader take care of all the logistics. Enjoy leisurely strolls around Buttermere. Seek out Surprise View and the ancient stonework of Ashness Bridge on the way to Derwentwater or explore the Borrowdale Valley. More challenging days out take on the summits and ridges of the Western Fells, including Haystacks from Honister Pass or the airy scramble from Red Pike to High Stile and High Crag on a classic ridge traverse. 

Discover guided walking holidays at Hassness House
Classic Discover Adagio Self-guided

Self-Guided Walking Holiday at Hassness House

On a self-guided walking holiday in the Lake District you have the flexibility and freedom to explore independently but with the back up of our well-equipped country house and experienced team to take care of everything upon your return. Choose from 3 or 4-night short breaks to 7-night stays throughout the year. Take advantage of our expertly designed and graded itineraries to explore at your own pace. Laminated maps and guidebooks are also available to borrow from the house. Gentler rambles include circumnavigating Buttermere or exploring Borrowdale. Longer walks climb Cat Bells to look out over Derwentwater while challenging climbs include Haystacks and High Stile. The choice is yours. 

Discover self-guided walking holidays at Hassness House

Discover Hassness Country House

A beautifully located Lake District country house in its own grounds on the shores of Buttermere among the western fells, Hassness Country House is the perfect base for guided and self-guided walking holidays in the Lake District. Step inside to discover the rich history and natural beauty of Hassness Country House, or learn more by reading an expert guide to Hassness Country House and walking in the Lake District from one of our experienced walk leaders...

Learn more about the history of Hassness House

What to expect at Hassness House

Your stay at Hassness Country House

Rooms

Your home in the heart of the Lake District offers comfortable accommodation for 19 guests across a variety of room types:

Room Types

  • Twin, double and single rooms available
  • 7 out of 11 bedrooms feature en-suite facilities
  • Remaining rooms share high-powered shower rooms and toilets located conveniently across the hall

 In-Room Amenities

  • Tea and coffee making facilities in every room
  • Locally sourced, natural and handmade bathroom toiletries
  • Fresh towels provided for each guest
  • Hairdryers available

Views to Inspire

  • All bedrooms are lakeside facing
  • Many rooms overlook the tranquil lake and imposing fells beyond
  • Garden-view rooms offer peaceful vistas


Facilities

Hassness Country House provides the perfect retreat from today's always-connected world:

Digital Detox

  • No TVs or phones in bedrooms
  • Limited mobile reception in this beautifully remote valley
  • Wi-Fi available throughout the property when needed

Common Areas

  • The Lounge – Sink into leather sofas beside the large picture window overlooking Buttermere. The perfect spot to:
    • Curl up with a book by the fire
    • Share stories of trails tramped and summits bagged
    • Enjoy the comfortable, welcoming atmosphere after your day's adventure
  • Outdoor Spaces
    • Large front garden for relaxation
    • Rear terrace – ideal for wildlife watching (keep an eye out for red squirrels!)


Food & Drink

Hassness Country House has earned a strong culinary reputation, celebrating the very best of Cumbrian cuisine:


Daily Dining

  • Breakfast – Hearty cooked options with homemade preserves
  • Packed Lunch – Substantial fuel for your hill adventures
  • Afternoon Return – Welcome back with freshly baked cakes, coffee and tea
  • Dinner – Three-course feast featuring local specialities

Local Specialities

  • Slow-cooked Herdwick lamb
  • Traditional Cumberland sausage
  • Damson fruit tart
  • Plenty of vegetarian and vegan options
  • All dietary requirements can be accommodated

The Honesty Bar - Toast your day's adventures with:

  • Selection of red and white wines
  • Bottled beers
  • Assortment of spirits

 Nearby Buttermere Village  - (1 mile) Despite our wonderfully remote location, this tiny traditional hamlet offers:

  • Two welcoming pubs serving local ales
  • Charming café with traditional cream teas and homemade ice cream
  • Wednesday dining option (when our kitchen takes its weekly rest)
Classic Discover Adagio Self-guided

Hire Hassness for your private group

Hassness is available to hire as a whole house, on a catered basis, for 3, 4 or 7 nights at various times throughout the year.  We have welcomed a wide range of groups to the house , from families, groups of friends and local clubs to even hosting weddings on the property grounds. If you are interested in a fully catered, private hire stay on the shores of Buttermere, on an exclusive use basis for your group, please contact to discuss availability and prices.

Contact our Groups Team

Things to do around Buttermere

The beauty of staying at Hassness Country House is having endless adventures right on your doorstep. Whether you're seeking gentle lakeside rambles or exhilarating fell adventures, this spectacular valley delivers unforgettable experiences.


Lake & Valley Walks

Buttermere Circuit

  • Regarded as one of the finest round-the-lake walks in the entire Lake District
  • Perfect for wild swimming on warmer days
  • Watch for roe deer and red squirrels along the shoreline

Crummock Water

  • Discover lovely beach-side views along the water's edge
  • More peaceful than its famous neighbour
  • Ideal for contemplative moments

Waterfall Wonders

Scale Force – Lake District's Highest Waterfall

  • Plunges an impressive 170ft through a narrow gorge
  • Located on the western side of Crummock Water
  • The tallest single-drop waterfall in the Lake District

Sourmilk Gill – Nature's Drama

  • Thunders down nearly 400m of steep fellside
  • Cascades from Bleaberry Tarn to Buttermere
  • Particularly spectacular when in spate after rainfall

Seasonal Highlights

Rannerdale – The Secret Valley

  • Carpeted with bluebells between April and May
  • A hidden gem known mainly to locals
  • Gentle walks through this flower-filled wonderland

Adventure & Heritage

Honister Slate Mine - Step back in time at the head of the infamous Honister Pass:

  • England's last working slate mine
  • Renowned for beautiful Westmorland green slate
  • Underground Tours – Delve deep into the historic mine workings
  • Adventure Activities:
    • Cross Europe's longest infinity bridge
    • Try abseiling experiences
    • Challenge yourself on fixed via ferrata routes

Wildlife Watching

Keep your eyes peeled throughout your explorations for:

  • Roe deer grazing the fellsides
  • Red squirrels in the woodland areas
  • Varied birdlife around the lakes and crags
Exploring the Lake District: things to do around Buttermere

Frequently asked questions about Hassness House

  • Where is Hassness Country House located?

    Hassness House sits on the tranquil western shore of Buttermere in England’s Lake District. It lies within a sparsely populated valley, close to Keswick, offering one of Britain’s most scenic and remote walking areas.

  • What types of walking holidays are offered at Hassness House?

    Hassness House offers a variety of walking holidays, including guided walking breaks across moderate and challenging terrain and self-guided stays with detailed route notes. There’s also a Navigation and Hill Skills course, which helps guests develop confidence in using maps and navigating more independently in the fells. All holidays are based at Hassness with full catering. View the latest options here.

  • What accommodation and facilities are available at Hassness House?

    Hassness House accommodates 19 guests across 11 rooms (singles, twins, doubles), with 7 ensuite rooms and shared high-power shower rooms. All rooms offer lakeside or garden views, tea/coffee facilities, toiletries, towels, and hairdryers. Guests also enjoy free on-site parking, Wi-Fi, a drying/boot room, lounge with picture window, garden and terrace, and an honesty bar.

  • What dining options are provided?

    Hassness House serves hearty home-cooked meals made with local ingredients, including regional specialities like Herdwick lamb and Damson tart. Guests enjoy a cooked breakfast, packed lunch, and a three-course dinner, with vegetarian and vegan options available. Tea, coffee, and cake are served after walks, and an honesty bar offers wine, beer, and spirits. On Wednesdays, when the kitchen is closed, guests can dine at nearby pubs and cafés in Buttermere village.

  • Are dietary requirements catered for?

    Yes, vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary needs are accommodated. Please inform Ramble Worldwide at booking so arrangements can be made in advance.

  • What is the nearest village and public transport access?

    Buttermere village is around 2 miles away and has two pubs and a café. Hassness House is accessible by train to Penrith, bus to Keswick, then by bus or taxi (note: public bus doesn’t serve the property from November to Easter). We offer transfers from Penrith Railway Station to Hassness House. The nearest fuel stations are in Keswick or Cockermouth; there are no EV charging docks on site.

  • Can the house be booked privately by a group?

    Yes, the entire property can be reserved on a fully catered basis for groups, including families, clubs, or private events such as weddings—available for 3, 4 or 7‑night stays depending on the season. Contact our groups team on Tel 01707 386723 (Mon-Fri) or by email groups@rambleworldwide.co.uk 

  • What wildlife and scenery can guests expect?

    The area is known for Herdwick sheep, red squirrels, wildflowers (e.g. bluebells in spring), woodland walks, lakeshore strolls, and waterfalls—highlighting views around Buttermere, Crummock Water, Rannerdale, Honister Slate Mine and more.

  • What should I pack or be prepared for?

    Weather in the Lake District can be changeable, always pack waterproofs, warm layers, and well‑worn walking boots. On Grade 7 walks, be prepared for rugged terrain, scrambling, and possibly exposed clearances. In wet or cold conditions, some high-level routes may be replaced by lower alternatives.

  • Where is Buttermere?

    Buttermere is a small village and lake located in the western part of the Lake District National Park, Cumbria, England. It's nestled between Crummock Water and the Honister Pass, about 10 miles southwest of Keswick.

  • How long does it take to walk around Buttermere Lake?

    The circular walk around Buttermere Lake is approximately 4.5 miles (7.2 km) and takes about 1.5 to 2 hours at a relaxed pace. The path is mostly level and well-maintained, making it suitable for most walkers.

  • Can you swim in Buttermere?

    Yes, wild swimming is permitted in Buttermere, and it's popular with swimmers due to its scenic beauty and clear water. However, the lake can be cold even in summer, and there are no lifeguards, so swimmers should be confident and take necessary safety precautions.

  • What is there to do in Buttermere?

    Buttermere is perfect for outdoor activities, including:

    • Scenic lake and woodland walks
    • Fell hiking (e.g. Haystacks, Fleetwith Pike)
    • Photography and nature watching
    • Visiting nearby waterfalls like Sourmilk Gill
    • Enjoying tea rooms and traditional pubs in the village

  • How deep is Buttermere Lake?

    Buttermere Lake has a maximum depth of around 75 feet (23 metres) and an average depth of about 30 feet (9 metres).

  • What is Buttermere famous for?

    Buttermere is renowned for its dramatic scenery, tranquil atmosphere, and classic Lakeland views. It was a favourite of writer and walker Alfred Wainwright, who praised its peacefulness. It’s also famous for the Buttermere Pines, which are often photographed reflecting in the lake’s still waters.

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