Buttermere is as close to heaven as most of us will ever see, and this circuit of the skyline surrounding the lake is a voyage filled with both variety and delight. There is sylvan loveliness on the climb alongside Sour Milk Ghyll, there are airy ridges, steep declivities tumbling into wild corries, and stunning views. Amidst all the natural beauty, the shattered desolation of Honister adds yet another dimension. And, talking of added dimensions, this horseshoe is unlike those of Fairfield and Kentmere in that you'll lose a lot of height halfway round. You'll have to summon the will to haul yourself back to summit level when you're already five Wainwrights deep. So ponder that total ascent statistic carefully: it is significantly more than a mile.
14.20 miles, 22.85 km, 1,874m ascent, 6 – 9 hours. Keswick or Cockermouth
