Shepherd's huts near Buttermere with wildlife watching
Hike England’s highest peak and sleep under starry skies while camping near Buttermere.
- Buttermere
Popular camping styles for Buttermere
7 top shepherd's huts sites near Buttermere with wildlife watching
Dog-friendly getaways
Shepherd's huts near Buttermere with wildlife watching guide
Overview
Nestled between Crummock Water and Buttermere Lake, the village of Buttermere is a peaceful escape within the Lake District. A short trip away gives campers access to gentle peaks, rolling hills, and wide lakes in Cumbria, as well as plenty of quiet tent and caravan pitches to admire the wide open skies. Explore Lake District National Park for a hike up the country’s highest mountain, or sleep under the stars in Yorkshire Dales Dark Sky Reserve. Accessible trails in North Pennines Area of Natural Beauty offer even more outdoor exploration alongside historic villages and colourful woodlands that make the region around Buttermere a camping favourite.
Where to go
Lake District National Park
Buttermere is just one of many historic villages inside Lake District National Park, where tranquil lakes and verdant woodlands create a camping and hiking destination. Take a stroll up Scafell Pike, the highest mountain in England, or wander over 1,864 miles of public walking paths through the many lakes that give this park its name. Wild camping is only available by landowner permission; however, there are many available tent campsites inside the park. Campers can also find caravan pitches, cottages, and cabin rentals to enjoy in Lake District.
Yorkshire Dales National Park
From sweeping peak views to educational exhibits at Dales Countryside Museum, Yorkshire Dales is a favourite for nature and history lovers. Avid hikers love Three Peaks, a 24-mile circular walk with rugged vertical ascents and views over the park. Linger overnight in one of the on-site quiet tent pitches for a peaceful escape, or try a motorhome or campervan hire to explore the park by vehicle. In this official Dark Sky Reserve, lucky campers may even catch a glimpse of the northern lights between September and March.
North Pennines Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Gently rolling hills and peaceful meadows make North Pennines an accessible walking area that’s popular with hikers of all ability levels. The Outdoor Mobility Program offers mobility scooters as well to make this AONB available to everyone. Campers can explore mining history at Killhope Lead Mining Museum, ride one of the AONB’s historic railways, and wander through gardens and artworks on display at Auckland Castle. A range of family-friendly and adult-only caravan campsites offer peaceful accommodations as well.
When to go
Camping in Lake District is most popular in summer, when average temperatures around 18°C offer an inviting environment for walking, paddling, and splashing in lakes. October and November bring a colourful display of autumn leaves along with thinning crowds. Winter camping often comes with snow in the mountains and northern lights. While most parks in the area remain open in winter, campers should check ahead to ensure their preferred tent pitch or caravan site is available year-round.
