Things to do in Buttermere on a rainy day…
The Lake District is renowned for its rain, so it’s likely a visit here will include a rainy day or two. Luckily, there are a few activities in and around Buttermere to enjoy on a rainy day…
Honister Slate Mine
A great way of escaping the rain is to spend the day underground! Situated at the head of Honiser Pass, Honiser Slate Mine host a range of underground activities include mine tours and their ‘Climb the Mine’ experience, which involves vertical climbs, rope bridges and exploring hidden passages and caverns! The mine is also home to the highest café in the Lake District; the Sky Hi Café. Escape the rain and enjoy a cake and coffee after your mine tour, also visiting the gift shop before you go!
Waterfall Walks
Some rainy day activities are surprisingly better outdoors, including waterfall walks. Waterfalls are often at their biggest and most impressive during and after heavy rainfall. Here are a couple of nearby waterfalls to explore with your waterproofs!
Moss Force
One of the most accessible waterfalls situated a few yards from the roadside, Moss Force is an impressive sight after rainfall; the water thunders over the rocks and sprays onto the road at Newlands Hause. During wet weather, it is advisable to view the waterfall from the road and not try to get to close due to slippery rocks.
Scale Force
Scale Force is the tallest single drop waterfall in the Lake District of 170 feet. It is hidden away in a deep, tree-lined gorge and around 2.5 miles away from the National Trust car park at Buttermere. The waterfall is usually thin however will be at its largest during rainy periods, making the falls more visible. William Wordsworth described the waterfall as ‘a fine chasm, with a lofty, though but slender, fall of water.’
Holme Force
A lesser-known waterfall in the valley, Holme Force flows within Holme Wood beside Loweswater. A footpath rising through the woodland leads you to the base of Holme Force; a series of falls spouting from mossy rocks, which form little pools below. A picturesque scene looking as though it has been plucked from a fairy tale.
St James’ Church
An indoor attraction to spend an hour of a rainy day, St James’ Church is Buttermere valleys historic gem dating back to 1507. Watch the rain through the church’s stunning 17th century stained glass windows designed by the historical famous artist Henry Holiday. The mountain Haystacks is also visible through the south window, which stands as a memorial to Wainwright.