The fell itself is a scheduled ancient monument, containing evidence of Roman settlements and a medieval coal mine (Vavasours), thought to be the earliest inland colliery recorded.

A colliery at Butterknowle, formerly in the ownership of Sir Henry Vane, and leased to Thomas and Mary Lambert, is mentioned in the court papers of King Charles II in 1660.

The Church of St John the Evangelist is to be found in the neighbouring hamlet of Lynesack, about half a mile away, which is also home to a contemporary landscape photography studio and art gallery.

Butterknowle is also home to the Gaunless Valley Visitor Centre, where can be found a wealth of information regarding the area's 600-year-old mining and agricultural heritage, along with details of local walks and places of interest.

High Force, one of England's highest and most spectacular single-drop waterfalls, is located a short drive away in Upper Teesdale.