Crummock Water

Crummock Water brings together open lake views, woodland paths and the steep outlines of the western fells. The lake drains north into the River Cocker, connecting this valley to Cockermouth and the Derwent. Choose a short visit to the shore, a walk from Buttermere or a longer stay exploring this quieter corner of the Lake District.

Last updated: 24 October 2026

Plan your visit

Between Buttermere and Loweswater

Crummock Water sits between Buttermere and Loweswater, in a valley of farms, woodland and high fells. Mellbreak rises above the western side, while Rannerdale Knotts offers views from the southeast.

It is a place to linger over the landscape: watch the changing light, take a picnic to a public shore or build a visit around one of the valley’s walking routes.

Our lakes and tarns overview has more guides and reference figures.

Things to do: lakeshore and woodland walks

Lanthwaite Wood is a useful starting point for reaching the northern shore. A shorter out-and-back visit lets you enjoy the woodland and lake views without committing to a longer circuit.

For a fuller outing, the National Trust’s Lanthwaite Wood and Crummock Water walk is a four-mile route with climbs, rough ground and steep steps. It is a different proposition from the shorter approach to the shore; check the route and access details before choosing it.

Bring footwear suited to wet or uneven paths. Choose a turnaround point that leaves enough daylight for the return, and use a map for longer walks.

Rannerdale, Scale Force and the fells

Rannerdale Knotts gives a higher viewpoint over the valley. The National Trust’s three-mile route from Buttermere includes a steep, stone-pitched descent and needs sturdy footwear. Allow more time than the distance alone might suggest.

Scale Force is another walking idea from the Buttermere end of Crummock Water. Plan your route and check conditions before heading towards the waterfall; wet paths and slippery rock need care.

Mellbreak and the surrounding fells offer more demanding days out. Pick a route that matches your experience and the forecast rather than treating a summit walk as an extension of an easy lakeside stroll.

Water access and fishing

Checked 24 October 2026: the National Trust says boating permits for Crummock Water and Buttermere are suspended while access is reviewed following advice from Natural England. Check its latest notice before planning a boating or paddling trip.

Fishing needs a National Trust permit and the appropriate Environment Agency rod licence. Read the current fishing conditions, permitted methods and purchase arrangements before visiting.

Check current boating and fishing guidance →

Open water is cold and conditions can change. Check local access notices and current conditions before any swim, and avoid entering the water alone.

Getting here and planning your day

Choose a starting point for your plans. Lanthwaite Wood serves the northern end, while Buttermere village is useful for outings at the southern end. The National Trust’s Buttermere Valley visitor information covers parking, facilities and access.

Check current bus timetables before relying on public transport, as services can be seasonal. Allow time for narrow roads, and use designated parking without blocking gateways or passing places.

Buttermere village has food stops and public toilets. Check opening arrangements before a long walk and carry what you need for the day. Keep dogs under close control around stock and wildlife, and take litter home.

Places to stay near Crummock Water

Kirkstile Inn offers a base in the Loweswater area, while Buttermere Court Hotel is in Buttermere village. Both let you explore the western Lakes over a longer visit.

The Skiddaw Hotel is a separate town option in Keswick, with a journey to Crummock Water. Compare the location, facilities and access that suit your plans before checking availability.

Buttermere

Buttermere Court Hotel

Hotel · Buttermere — Informal rooms between two lakes, with fell walks nearby.

Loweswater

Kirkstile Inn

Inn / pub with rooms · Loweswater — Traditional rooms, pub food and views towards Melbreak.

Keswick

Skiddaw Hotel

Hotel · Keswick — Town-centre rooms, restaurant and lounge bar.

Is Crummock Water the same as Buttermere?

No. They are neighbouring lakes separated by land around Buttermere village. You can plan a visit that takes in views of both.

Can I hire a boat?

Do not plan on boat hire: the National Trust currently lists boating permits as suspended. Follow the official guidance linked above for changes.

When should I visit?

Choose the season for the outing you want, then check the forecast and daylight. Spring flowers, summer walks and autumn colour offer different reasons to return, but good weather is never guaranteed.