Photos of Buttermere
Reviews
About
No motorboats allowed on lake, very quiet spot & quite secluded
Location
Getting there
Parked at gatesgarth carpark and walked along road until reaching the public footpath
Accessibility
Fairly flat walk to get to spot, can walk out a few meters and then there is a steep ledge
What swimmers say
Facilities
Activities
Landscape
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Plan your swim
Before you go
- Cold water shock is real. Enter slowly and control your breathing.
- Lake water can be much colder below the surface (thermocline)
- Stay close to shore until you know the conditions
- Watch for boat traffic and stay visible with a tow float
- Check for blue-green algae warnings before swimming
Conditions change fast. Always check the latest data, read recent community reports, and swim within your ability.
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Frequently asked questions
Is this lake safe for swimming?
Check the Conditions tab for surface state and wind conditions. Review the Quality tab if this is a designated bathing water. Always read recent community reports for local advice.
How cold is the water?
Check the Temperature tab for the current estimate and 7-day trend. Lakes hold heat longer than rivers but can develop a thermocline. The water below the surface can be dramatically colder.
What should I bring?
A tow float for visibility (especially important where boats operate), warm layers for after, and consider a wetsuit in colder months. Check for designated swimming areas.