Around Rydal Water
Recommended by
Our view
"The tranquil Rydal of Wordsworth and co may be elusive, but it is still a beautiful walk around a lake at any time of the year"
Walk directions
From the entrance to the higher car park, cross the road, descend steps and bear right to join a wide track near picnic tables. (From the lower car park, pass a low barrier and ‘White Moss Walks’ board). Follow the track over a footbridge.
Ascend, forking right near the top, to a gate leading to a stony track. Take the path ahead, slanting left and up through the bracken to a level path known as Loughrigg Terrace. Traverse left along the path, with fine views over the lake to Nab Cottage and Nab Scar. Continue along the path, rising slightly around a shoulder to a level area of slate waste. On the right is the entrance to Rydal Cave, an old slate quarry.
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Additional information
Terrain
- Stony paths and tracks
Landscape
- Rydal Water nestling in wooded vale below high fells
Dog friendliness
- Generally suitable for dogs; grazing sheep, 2 road crossings
Parking
- Car parks either side of A591 at White Moss Common
Toilets en route
- Below the A591, between the two car parks
About the walk
This classic walk of breathtaking beauty will surely be forever associated with the poet William Wordsworth (1770–1850). From all around the world people come here to see the landscape that so inspired him. His poetry broke with the conventional structure and stylised imagery of his day to explore...
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Been on this walk?
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Walking in Safety
Read our tips to look after yourself and the environment when following this walk.
Get an AA guide
Explore our range of ‘50 Walks in’ guides - they’re the ideal companion for a ramble.
Been on this walk?
Send us photos or a comment about this route. Or recommend a route of your own.
Walking in Safety
Read our tips to look after yourself and the environment when following this walk.
Get an AA guide
Explore our range of ‘50 Walks in’ guides - they’re the ideal companion for a ramble.
About the area
Cumbria's rugged yet beautiful landscape is best known for the Lake District National Park that sits within its boundaries. It’s famous for Lake Windermere, England’s largest lake, and Derwent Water, ‘Queen of the English Lakes', but other lesser-known areas in the south, such as the Lune Valley and the coastal towns, are secret gems of wide cobbled streets and rolling hills.
Nearby places to stay
View all (8)
Nearby places to stay
Moss Grove Organic
Located in the heart of the Lakes, this impressive Victorian house has been appointed using as many natural products as possible, as part of an ongoing dedication to cause minimal envir...
Rowanberry Cottage
Awaiting description....
Rowanberry Cottage
Awaiting description....
Forest Side
Located on the edge of Grasmere village, Forest Side is a former mansion house that's been lovingly converted into a charming and relaxing hotel. Dinner is a must – the kitchen team wor...
Rothay Garden by Harbour Hotel
Rothay Garden was built in the 1850s as a private home and was then turned into a guest house. The hotel benefits from a very peaceful location with a beautiful garden and picturesque v...
April Cottage
April Cottage is a gorgeous 200 year old cottage built out of Lakeland stone. It has been restored with great care to keep all the charm, yet still benefits from all the modern comforts...
April Cottage
April Cottage is a gorgeous 200 year old cottage built out of Lakeland stone. It has been restored with great care to keep all the charm, yet still benefits from all the modern comforts...
The Britannia Inn
A farmhouse built about 500 years ago, The Britannia became an inn during the 19th century. For many decades it was a local for quarrymen and gunpowder factory workers, who would be ama...
Places to eat nearby View all
