Absolutely gorgeous place. Wasn't too busy. The online time was earlier than they actually open; may be a covid thing. Online said 10AM but didn't open til noon so I just grabbed breakfast nearby and waited. So many beautiful plants. Really worth a look. There are two large greenhouses and the outdoor gardens to enjoy. Thankfully google directed me along the riverwalk way from my hostel and that is definitely the way to go. It looks murdery but was quiet, secluded, and relaxing walk. Some ruins and photo ops along the way.
A must see bucket list item. Take a boat cruise if you can and visit the castle.
Beautiful old bridge with a history. Great photo ops. Part of the Robbie Burns walking tour of the area.
Another stop within a walking tour of Robbie Burns Museum and included in that admission. Does not take more than a few minutes to walk thru. Park at the museum and walk over through Poet's Path.
Beautiful park with Robbie Burns monument. Part of the walking tour of the area. A number of Robbie Burns sites within walking distance of each other. No charge; parking at the museum. Can go up the monument for a look see.
As part of the Robbie Burns walking tour in this area, it's a very good add on. Cool old graveyard right across the street from the museum. Wouldn't go just to see it, but as part of a trip to a number of Robbie Burns site, it's great.
Headed to Scotland for the first time so some Robbie Burns history was important. Interesting place. The age of the artifacts blows my mind. Museum is very well laid out and tells the story of this man and the different stages and aspects of his life. I was able to purchase a ticket onsite when I arrived. In addition to the museum, there are other things in the area to explore like the walkway, gardens, auld kirk, cottage, and bridge.
Loved this place and went a few times while I was there. It is busy but amazing. Whether it is breakfast, lunch, snacks, or ice cream, they had me covered. Friendly staff, great food, relaxing atmosphere.
This may be my favourite hostel this trip. I was in the top room and with covid protocols, rooms were all private so had the place to myself. The room had a sink, beds had lights and outlets. Down a floor for shared washrooms. Fantastic, comfy common areas. Laundry on the main floor; washer and hang to dry. I had to go to the main area for wifi and even that was a bit spotty. They served meals that needed to be preordered. I did not eat there. There was no early check in; this may have been because of covid/staffing issues. The building did not open until check in. There is onsite parking which did fill up.
Buttermere is a very small community and absolutely gorgeous and a short walk. A couple restaurants in town but some do have restricted hours for guests who are not staying in their establishments. Tons of hiking options, the lakes are beautiful. Ice cream in town. This place is a relaxation dream! Love it!
Lots to see if geology or mining is your thing. For me, I more appreciated the break in the long drive. The museum has quite a few displays. There is a train ride and staff will explain the history of the mine.