I use crockery butter dishes... it's tricky to get one that is high enough... I know it sounds over the top but I would measure the height of a block of butter before choosing a butter dish... one of mine won't close properly until I have used some of the butter off the top.

Kim: until the refridgerator was invented butter was kept in a cool pantry.... if it stays solid then it should be safe for a few days if left out. Being a family of 5 we go through a block in a few days anyhow.