Relaxing summer camp at Buttermere 2024
16 people attending
4 places left
Buttermere is one of the most beautiful spots in the Lake District. The tiny village sits between two stunning lakes and is surrounded by an incredible range of fells. There are walks for all abilities - from an easy two hour flat walk around the lake, to a classic ridge walk including Red Pike, High Style and High Crag.
The campsite is small and over undulating ground, with some pitches by the river, and all with stunning views. You will have to carry all your kit from the car park to the camping area- bring a trolley if you have one.
We will be camping within easy walking distance of two lakes so you may be tempted to try wild swimming or SUP. Please be aware, this is NOT a watersports event and any lake activities must be at your own risk and aren't covered by OutdoorLads.
The village has a pub and two cafes so is well served for refreshments.
Please don't bring very large tents, and try to car share where possible, as parking is limited.
The site allows VW size vans (which are parked in a separate areas) but not larger motor homes as access and space does not allow. The site is accessible by bus from Keswick.
This is a very relaxed and peaceful campsite, so no loud music, singing and dancing into the early hours on this event please. We will of course have (raised) fire pits to socialise around in the evenings.
Showers are coin-in-slot (50p for 5 mins). Change is available from the cafe if you forget to bring some.
Dogs: The site allows dogs at no additional cost, but sheep are everywhere in the Lakes so must be under close control at all times. We therefore ask that they are ALWAYS on leads while on the campsite.
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete a Participation Statement, in addition to booking your event space before attending an OutdoorLads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend.
Photos: By Peter Walter and used with permission.
What to bring
For the walk:
Water: bring at least two litres in a water bottle, or better still, a hydration bladder
Medicines: if you have hay fever, diabetes, minor ailments etc.
Day Rucksack: typically 20-30 litres, they are comfortable to wear and allow you to use your arms freely
Waterproof bags: keep spare clothing, electronics and anything else dry even when your rucksack leaks by using Ziploc type food bags or, better still, outdoor activity waterproof bags
Boots: waterproof and breathable hiking boots with good ankle support
Socks: proper walking socks will keep your feet dry and help prevent blisters, and carry a spare, dry pair
Layered clothing: lets you quickly adapt to changes in the weather and body temperature. Go for a base layer (vest or t-shirt) and a mid layer (a micro fleece or shirt) and in cooler weather add an outer layer (a windproof jacket or thick fleece)
Trousers: no jeans as they become heavy and cold in the rain, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry and on warm days shorts are OK
Waterproof jacket: essential when hiking in all but the calmest of weather, breathable fabrics are more comfortable and dry.
Gloves: Windproof, or better still, waterproof gloves are the best choice, bring a spare pair if expecting rain.
Hat or cap: stay warm in winter and shaded in summer
Sunglasses: for any sunny day, even in winter
Sun cream: can be useful even on cloudy and winter days
Snacks: bring biscuits, energy bars, gels, bananas, chocolate or dried fruit for example and put them somewhere easy to get hold of
Lunch: you will need to bring this or pick somethng up from the cafe.
Emergency equipment: the walk leader will bring any emergency equipment required for the group, but you are welcome to bring any that you have, such as additional high energy food, a survival bag, a whistle, a medical kit, a torch and something to make fire (either storm proof matches or a firelighter
Map and compass: the walk leader will have these, but if you like map reading or want to develop your skills, bring yours along
Mobile Phone: keep it in a waterproof bag for use in emergencies, and a spare battery/charger is a good idea
For camping:
Tent: make sure you know how to pitch it, even in bad weather or in the dark. Check you have all the poles, ropes and pegs. A 3 season tent is the minimum recommended level of protection.
Sleeping bag: one that provides adequate warmth, designed to go below the temperature that you expect
Sleeping mat: will keep you warmer and dryer
Waterproof bags: for spare, dry clothing
Food: search online for camping food that’s easy to cook and filling
Hot drinks: at least in cold weather
Cooking Equipment: check you have fuel and know how yours works
Eating equipment: mug, bowl or plate and cutlery
Washing up equipment: detergent, brush/scourer and tea towel
Wash kit: remember to include a towel, shower gel and shampoo
Torch: or easier still, a head torch
Fire pit/ logs. So long as they are off the ground so there is no damage caused, there's nothing better for socialising in the evening.
Food & drink
You can either eat in the tearooms or pub or bring your own food and drink. The tearoom is open for breakfast. They offer a good range of meals and snacks for dietary requirements too.
BBQs are allowed, but must be raised off the ground and cause no damage.