Why This Buttermere Ridge Route is Peak Bagging Gold
The Buttermere Valley is known for its steep-sided fells, tranquil lakes, and postcard views—and this ridge route captures it all. Starting from Buttermere village, this linear or circular hike climbs steadily to Red Pike and follows the high ground over High Stile, High Crag, and finishes at Haystacks—Alfred Wainwright’s personal favourite.
This route is ideal for confident hikers looking to tick off multiple Wainwrights in one go while staying on dramatic, well-defined ridges. It’s steep in places, especially on the descents, but incredibly rewarding and visually spectacular throughout.
Route Snapshot
- Wainwrights Ticked Off:
Red Pike (755m)
High Stile (807m)
High Crag (744m)
Haystacks (597m)
- Distance: 13–15 km (circular or linear options)
- Total Ascent: 1,000–1,100m
- Time Required: 6–7.5 hours
- Start/End Point: Buttermere village (or Gatesgarth for linear version)
- Difficulty: Hard (steep ascents and descents, exposed ridges)
- Best Map: OS Explorer OL4 – North-Western Fells
Summit-by-Summit Breakdown
Red Pike (755m)
A tough climb through Burtness Comb or via Scale Force brings you to Red Pike—a fine ridge-top fell with commanding views over Crummock Water and Ennerdale.
Why it’s worth the effort:
- Unique reddish rock and colour
- One of the most dramatic starts to a walk in the Lakes
- Offers your first look along the full ridge to come
High Stile (807m)
The highest fell on this route and the central point of the day. From here you can see both Buttermere and Ennerdale stretching in opposite directions.
Standout features:
- Broad summit with huge views
- Less busy than nearby Scafell routes
- An excellent lunch stop spot on calm days
High Crag (744m)
This sharp-edged fell delivers a steep descent down Gamlin End—one of the most notorious legs of the route. It’s short, but be prepared for some thigh-burning and cautious footwork.
Why it makes the list:
- Great place to look back along the ridge
- Exposed and airy, but with a solid path
- Descent from here separates the confident from the cautious
Haystacks (597m)
The final summit is a true classic. With its rocky knolls, quiet tarns (including the beautifully remote Innominate Tarn), and quirky topography, Haystacks is arguably the most characterful fell in the Lakes.
Why it’s unforgettable:
- Alfred Wainwright’s ashes are scattered here
- Unusual terrain unlike any other summit
- Great sunset spot if you’re timing your walk right
Full Route Description: Buttermere Ridge from the Village
- Start in Buttermere village and ascend via Sourmilk Gill or Scale Force to reach Red Pike.
- Follow the high ridge path over High Stile, keeping close to the crags for the best views.
- Continue to High Crag, then make the steep descent down Gamlin End.
- Cross the saddle at Scarth Gap and ascend to Haystacks, exploring the knolls and tarns.
- Descend to Gatesgarth and either loop back along the lake or arrange transport to return to Buttermere village (if doing a linear version).
Navigation and Safety
- This route has steep, eroded paths, especially on the descents—walking poles recommended.
- Haystacks’ summit area is confusing in mist—map and compass essential.
- Paths are mostly clear, but rain can make sections slippery.
- Be cautious in high wind, especially between High Crag and Haystacks.
What to Bring
- OS Explorer Map OL4
- Plenty of food and at least 2L of water
- Walking poles for descents
- Waterproofs and spare layers (weather changes quickly on this ridge)
- Headtorch and basic emergency kit
- GPX route for confidence in mist or poor visibility
Nearby Refreshments
- The Fish Inn, Buttermere – hearty pub meals and local beer
- Syke Farm Tea Room – legendary ice cream and cakes
- Croft House Farm Café – relaxed with a good outdoor space
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a serious day out with big rewards, this Buttermere ridge walk delivers. With four unique Wainwrights, some of the best views in the Lakes, and a brilliant mix of high fell walking and technical terrain, it’s a standout route for any aspiring peak bagger.
Tick all four summits and log your route in the Peaky Baggers app, where you can track your Wainwright count, upload photos, and plan your next big day on the fells.
Photo by Jonny Gios on Unsplash
