How to Visit Rydal Hall Waterfall and Rydal Grot
Rydal Hall Waterfall is a beautiful and secluded spot in the Lake District National Park (UNESCO World Heritage Site) that is worth visiting on your next trip.
You can view Rydal Waterfall from Rydal Grot, a small cave-like structure built in 1668 by Sir Daniel Flemming. It features a large window that provides a covered view of the falls. It is considered one of the oldest viewing stations in Britain.
Visiting the site is entirely free of charge (although donations are welcome), and it has been an inspiration to many artists, including John Constable and the renowned Cumbrian poet William Wordsworth, who mentions the picturesque scene in his poem “An Evening Walk” (1793). Who knows, it may inspire you.
In our guide, we share information on how to reach Rydal Hall Waterfall in the Lake District, including detailed walking instructions to Rydal Grot, Rydal Falls car park information and the history of Rydal Falls and its importance.
Where is Rydal Hall Waterfall?
Rydal Hall waterfall is a countryside attraction located in a park on the lane leading to Rydal Mount. The waterfall can be found by following the signpost off the A591 at Rydal, located north of Ambleside.
The map reference OS NY365068 represents the location of the waterfall.
Rydal Falls Car Park
Rydal Falls Car Parking Option One:
Rydal is a small village in the Lake District with limited parking options. The first option is to park at Rydal Hall, which requires purchasing a permit for £10, including a £5 voucher for their tea shop when used on the same day.
Rydal Falls Car Parking Option Two:
The second option is to park by Rydal Church on the roadside, donation-based parking at £2, using the coin box provided on the church wall.
It’s important to note that the road leading to Rydal village is steep and narrow, and if parking spots are not available, there is a little turning circle open as you go up near William Wordsworth’s House.
What is Rydal Grot?
Sir Daniel Fleming built The Grot (or Grotto) in 1668 as an observation point for the beautiful Rydal Falls. It is listed as a Grade II Structure.
Flemming referred to the location as the “Grot” and “my Grott-House” in his records. The structure is a basic stone building with a door on the southern side and a large window on the northern side, affording a view of the waterfall, the plunge pool, and the bridge above it.
William Wordsworth was particularly fond of Rydal Grot. He wrote about it in one of his earlier poems, “An Evening Walk,” and visited it with his nephew shortly before his death.
From the window, one can see a bridge across Rydal Beck, constructed by Sir Daniel Fleming in 1682. This stone bridge likely replaced a previous wooden structure. The Beck flows down as a waterfall called Low Falls into a plunge pool and continues through a gorge, creating a picturesque frame for the falls and providing shade to the scene.
Why is Rydal Grot popular?
In the late 18th century, this area became a tourist destination. Visitors were guided on a path to a summer house, where the waterfall was not visible until the door was opened, revealing a stunning view of the waterfall framed by the window on the opposite wall.
The interior of the Grotto was panelled initially, and the cost of the panelling and glazing was more than the cost of the rest of the building, as mentioned in Sir Daniel Fleming’s accounts. In 1692, Rev. Thomas Machell described it as a “little grotto… [for] retirement” and praised the view of the waterfall from it as “very surprising.”
Rydal Grot is unique, as it is believed to be Britain’s earliest known purpose-built viewing station. The view from this spot was highly praised by Thomas Gray in his Journal of 1769 and by Gilpin in 1786, among many others. When you visit, it is easy to understand why it is so impressive.
Directions to Rydal Hall Waterfall and Rydal Grot
A step-by-step guide to visiting Rydal Falls Viewing Station:
- Find the gate to Rydal Hall Gardens.
- Walk through Rydal Hall’s formal gardens and take the main path.
- On your left, you’ll pass a set of Italianate terraced stairs. You can head up these stairs to catch a glimpse of Rydal Hall from the gate.
- Continue to the end of the main path, where you’ll find a bridge.
- Cross the bridge to see the Rydal Hall waterfall viewpoint and read the sign on the bridge for more history about the waterfall and the building.
- Head back to the Quiet Garden on your left and go through the gate to access the ‘Quiet Garden’ area.
- Once you’ve walked through the Quiet Garden, you should loop around the path to your left.
- You’ll see a stone tunnel, walk through this tunnel and turn the left corner.
- You’ll reach Rydal Grot which gives you an incredible view of Rydal Hall Waterfall!
Upon arriving at Rydal Grot, you can enter the small building for a fantastic view of the Rydal Hall Waterfall. Inside, you will find a large window to see the waterfall cascading into the pool below and seats to sit and take in the view.
There is also a sign with information about the history of Rydal Grotto and a sketch of the scene by an unknown artist on the back wall. If you visit at night or in low lighting, there is a light switch inside but remember to turn it off when leaving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I swim at Rydal Falls?
No, you can enjoy the view, but swimming is not allowed in the pool.
Are dogs allowed in Rydal Hall gardens?
They are permitted but must be kept on a leash at all times due to the presence of grazing sheep and delicate plants.
What are the hours of operation for Rydal Hall?
The gardens are open from sunrise to sunset. After this time, the gates will be locked!
What can I do after visiting Rydal Hall Waterfall?
Take a hike to Rydal Water: This beautiful lake is surrounded by picturesque landscapes and offers a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. The Rydal Round is a popular moderate hike that takes you around the lake and offers stunning views of the surrounding fells.
Discover Rydal Cave: This small limestone cave is located in a secluded spot and is a unique natural feature to explore. It has become more famous on Instagram!
Explore Rydal Hall: This historic house and formal gardens are open to the public and offer a glimpse into the past. One of the best things to do in Rydal is to walk the grounds of Rydal Hall.
Visit Rydal Mount: This former home of William Wordsworth is now open to the public and offers a glimpse into the poet’s life. Visitors can tour the house and gardens and learn about Wordsworth’s life and work.
Explore Dove Cottage: The historic Dove Cottage is the former home of William Wordsworth and offers a glimpse into the life of the poet. Visitors can tour the place and learn about Wordsworth’s life and work.
Admire St Mary’s Rydal: St Mary’s was Constructed by Lady le Fleming of Rydal Hall in 1824; William Wordsworth later served the church as a churchwarden. The charming chapel, boasting a radiant stained glass east window, has been cherished since its inception.
The Old School Room Tea Shop:
Sir Daniel Fleming originally constructed the Old School Room Tea Shop as a schoolroom for his sons. According to Sir Daniel’s records, tutors were hired for short periods to teach different subjects as his sons progressed through their education. One of his sons, George Fleming, became the Bishop of Carlisle.
They offer a variety of light refreshments, including:
- Soups
- Sandwiches
- Homemade cakes
- Hot and cold drinks
- Ice cream
Overall Thoughts on Visiting Rydal Hall Waterfall (Rydal Grot)
Visiting Rydal Falls is a must-see for anyone travelling to the Lake District. The small building at Rydal Grot provides a fantastic view of the waterfall cascading into the pool below, and there are seats to sit and take in the picture. Rydal Falls is a peaceful and beautiful experience you should not miss on your next trip to the Lake District.
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Photo Credits: averagelives.com
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