Buttermere - A Supported Escape in the Lake District

Supported Walking Holiday

Imagine waking up to the sound of birdsong, stepping outside to breathtaking mountain views, and knowing that every detail of your holiday has been thoughtfully taken care of.

Our Buttermere holiday is designed for those who want to keep exploring, even if travel has become more challenging. With expert support, a friendly group, and a gentle itinerary, you can focus on what truly matters – making cherished memories in one of England’s most stunning landscapes.

Highlights

Stay at the beautiful Hassness Country House

At Hassness Country House, serenity awaits as you unwind in the inviting lounge, where plush leather sofas and a panoramic picture window frame breathtaking views of Buttermere. 

The expansive garden and serene terrace beckon birdwatchers and nature lovers to revel in the beauty of their surroundings, while every lakeside bedroom offers a peaceful sanctuary with stunning vistas of the tranquil lake and majestic fells.

Photo of the house

Explore the Lake District on foot and by boat

On this break we will have the benefit of an additional member of our team provided by Ramble Worldwide as an experienced walk leader. 

This break is aimed at those people who still want and are able to get out on the hills but need additional support to do so. We will aim to walk 5–7 miles a day on the main walking days but we will do this with plenty of breaks, refreshment and support.

Our friendly team with you every step of the way

From the moment you enquire to the last day of your holiday, our experienced and compassionate team is here to support you. We take the time to understand your needs, ensuring every detail is thoughtfully planned so you can relax and enjoy your time away.

Whether it’s providing gentle guidance on excursions, offering a reassuring presence, or simply sharing a laugh over dinner, we’re always there to make your journey seamless, stress-free, and filled with joyful moments.

Volunteers on a Dementia Adventure holiday at Hadrian's Wall

Delicious, worry-free dining

Every meal on your holiday is carefully planned to be both enjoyable and stress-free. We only visit handpicked restaurants and cafés that provide a welcoming, dementia-friendly environment, ensuring you can relax and savour the experience.

You’ll enjoy picnics and pub lunches on our days out, and delicious meals prepared by our team when back at your accommodation. We’re mindful of different dietary requirements and aim to fully accommodate them, whether due to allergies or religious beliefs.

With the information we gather during booking, we craft a tasty menu to suit the whole group, sharing mealtimes in a warm, communal setting.

What's included?

The price you pay includes:

Location

Nestled in the stunning Lake District, Buttermere offers a tranquil retreat for visitors seeking natural beauty and serene landscapes. The gentle shores of Buttermere Lake invite leisurely strolls, while the surrounding hills provide accessible walking paths and breathtaking  views. With its friendly atmosphere, well-maintained amenities, and captivating scenery, Buttermere is the perfect destination for relaxation and connection with nature, making it an ideal getaway for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate.

Accommodation

Embrace the allure of disconnection at Hassness Country House. In this idyllic retreat, free from the distractions of modern life; with no TVs or phones to interrupt your peace, you can truly immerse yourself in the untouched beauty of this enchanting valley, though Wi-Fi and a payphone ensure you stay slightly linked to the outside world when needed.

Facilities

Activities

On this break we will have the benefit of an additional member of our team provided by Ramble Worldwide as an experienced walk leader. This break is aimed at those people who still want and are able to get out on the hills but need additional support to do so. We will aim to walk 5–7 miles a day on the main walking days but we will do this with plenty of breaks, refreshment and support.

Example Itinerary

Every holiday with Dementia Adventure is unique! Your itinerary may vary depending on the date, and will be released to you in good time before your departure — usually about two to three weeks prior.

If you would like to get an idea of the kinds of activities that may be in store for you, see the example itinerary below. However, please note that this example is just a mock-up based on past years’ schedules, and does not constitute your final itinerary.

MondayTuesdayWednesdayThursdayFriday
Morning Hearty breakfast before a day’s walking in the hillsBoat ride on the lake/shorter walk + picnicHearty breakfast before a day’s walking in the hillsShort walk and lunch before saying goodbye
AfternoonArrive and have lunch before having a short introductory walk locally
EveningEvening meal and get to know our group for the weekEvening mealMeal outEvening meal

Who is this holiday for?

Need more support or options? Why not consider a tailored holiday instead?

Dementia Adventure HolidayPackage HolidaysHotel StaysCruises
Who's it forPeople with dementia and a carer or companion, who are happy to holiday as part of a small group of people who live with similar circumstances.General travelers, with accessible optionsGeneral travelers, with some accessible roomsGeneral travelers, with some dementia-friendly options
Dementia SupportSpecialised dementia-trained support staff available 24/7Limited dementia awareness, accessible support onlyBasic accessibility features, dementia awareness unlikelySome dementia support may be available, but not always specific
Personal CareMay be available at extra cost, although assistance with feeding, or spending time with the person with dementia so their companion can have a break is included.Not AvailableNot AvailableNot Available
Types of ActivitiesNature-focused, sensory, and gentle outdoor activitiesTourist activities (general)May include entertainment, but not tailoredOnboard entertainment, excursions, but not dementia-specific
AccommodationHand-picked to be safe, accessible and dementia-friendlyStandard, with some accessible optionsAccessible rooms available, but not dementia-friendlyAccessible cabins available, not dementia-specific
DurationMonday to FridayFixed duration (typically 7–14 days)Flexible, depending on the stayFixed duration (3–14 days), limited flexibility
LocationNatural, peaceful settings (e.g., countryside, coastal)Varies (city, resort, beach destinations)Varies widely, city or scenic locationsSpecific cruise routes, ports of call
CostProvided at cost price, with additional discounts available through our charitable support fundBudget to luxury (depending on the package)Varies widely based on location and servicesRanges from affordable to luxury
Health & SafetyAll accomodation and activities assessed and handpicked for dementia-related needsGeneral health and safety standardsGeneral health and safety standardsHigh standards, but not specifically for dementia
Group SizeSmall, intimate groups of people who live with similar circumstancesLarge groups (usually)AloneLarge groups
InclusivityFully inclusive for people with dementiaSome accessible features, not dementia-focusedAccessible features, not dementia-specificAccessible features, not dementia-specific
DiningVaried locations, often in quiet, relaxed settings (e.g., outdoor or private rooms), with tailored dietary needs (e.g., soft foods, specific textures). Meals served in calm, stress-free environments to minimise overstimulation.Standard dining locations, usually in large dining rooms or buffet-style settings with limited flexibility for dietary needs.Standard dining locations, usually in large dining rooms or buffet-style settings with limited flexibility for dietary needs.Multiple dining venues with some dietary-sensitive options, but not dementia-specific.

Select a date to make a reservation request today!