South of Keswick lies the beautiful Borrowdale Valley; Alfred Wainwright called it the fairest valley in the Lake District, exploring its dramatic corridors and relaxing in its charming villages it’s easy to agree.

Beyond this breathtaking valley is the dramatic Honister Pass (above) and the famous slate mines. This mountain pass takes you from Borrowdale, through some of the most spectacular landscape the Lakes has to offer, to the southern tip of stunning Buttermere. The Buttermere Valley remains rather undeveloped and therefore much more tranquil and relaxing.

To explore Borrowdale, Honister and Buttermere you can make use of the hop-on-hop-off bus service on routes 77/77A for around £6.50 (adults) and £4.75 (child). [April - November only]

Borrowdale

Buses can be caught from the main bus station near Booths supermarket in the centre of town. Ask your host for a current timetable, pay attention to last departure.

Catch the 77A in the morning to enjoy soaking up the views around the shores of Derwentwater and down into the Borrowdale Valley. Borrowdale is idyllic fell walking territory, with popular walks along the Allerdale Ramble route to explore Castle Crag, an ancient fort atop a craggy hill with great views across the lake. You can also enjoy the quaint valley villages here and the Royal Oak at Rosthwaite is the perfect stop to sample some local ale.

Honister

The winding mountain pass of Honister may get your pulse racing, but be sure to enjoy the dramatic scenery of this mountainous terrain as you head for the Honister Slate Mines (above). The slate mines are open to the visiting public for the chance to explore these historic mines and learn more about the world famous green Lakeland slate. Mine tours cost around £9.75 (adults). Here you can also take part in the adventurous via ferrata. (prices start at £25).

Buttermere

Pick up the 77A again and continue down into the Buttermere Valley. At the southern end is the peaceful Buttermere lake (pictured above), with lakeside walks, access to high summit trails such as Haystacks, a picturesque village with a couple of great pubs. Beyond Buttermere is Crummock Water, a rugged stretch of lake and an incredibly beautiful place to explore.

Whinlatter to Keswick

From Buttermere, catch the 77A to return to Keswick via the Whinlatter pass which meanders through England’s only true mountain forest, Whinlatter. You can of course hop off at Whinlatter to enjoy walking the forest trails, mountain biking adventure, swing between the trees at Go Ape or simply have tea and cake and bask in the views down to Bassenthwaite lake.

Exploring Borrowdale, Honister and Buttermere