It's only a short journey from Borrowdale over the dramatic Honister Pass with its slate quarries, mines and exhibition into the lovely valley containing the lakes of Buttermere, Crummock Water and Loweswater. Once a single lake, Buttermere and Crummock Water are now separated by a green and fertile plain which is in marked contrast to the steep fell sides and tumbling waterfalls.
Buttermere lake, set in its amphitheatre of mountains, is a tranquil scene, made more dramatic by the play of light and shade in the narrow valley. The low level walk round the lake is a delight, especially if it begins and ends in the hamlet of Buttermere itself, where there is ample opportunity to eat, rest and stay. Much popular high level walks start from the valley and can often be linked into "The Honister Rambler" bus service which follows a circular route from Keswick through Borrowdale and Buttermere.
The much larger neighbouring lake, Crummock Water, is closely followed by the road, with many vantage points looking towards the dramatic slopes of Melbreak and easy access to the Rannerdale valley. Be careful; the hardy Lakeland sheep wander on the unfenced roads! Small and picturesque settlements are scattered across the widening valley where the waters from the third lake pass through the hamlet of Loweswate of the same name.
High and Low Lorton combine to make up the first large village in the valley, set at the foot of Whinlatter Pass, leading to the Forest Park and Keswick, where it opens out to the broad Lorton Vale. This very traditional settlement is in a lovely location and justly popular with visitors for its many amenities.
Cockermouth is the market town and local shopping and recreational centre for the Buttermere valley and out onto the plain. Along its wide main street, lined with trees and flower beds, is a wide range of specialist shops. The town is the home of Cumbria's major brewery, Jennings, with another important attraction at Wordsworth House, built in 1745 and birthplace of the poet. This was reopened in 2004 after major renovation.
Other galleries and museums complete an impressive set of cultural facilities; uniquely the Lakeland Sheep and Wool Centre provides live displays of this very important local heritage.
