How to Complete the Rydal Water Circular Walk
The Rydal Water circular walk is nestled between Windermere and Grasmere and is one of the Lake District’s hidden gems. It is believed to be the source of inspiration for many of poet William Wordsworth’s works. Despite its small size, it offers a serene and picturesque setting, complete with a striking cave.
The lake is less crowded than its bigger counterparts and can be easily reached via the A591 between Ambleside and Grasmere. It is approximately 1.5 km long and 0.5 km wide and has a maximum depth of about 20 metres. It is fed by streams from the surrounding fells, including Loughrigg Fell, and is a popular destination for walkers and nature enthusiasts.
Rydal Water is surrounded by beautiful scenery, including woodland, fells, and gardens, and is a popular spot for hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. The lake is also home to various wildlife, including fish, birds, and small mammals.
Several footpaths and hiking trails lead around and up the surrounding fells, including the famous Loughrigg Fell, and provide spectacular views of the lake and the surrounding area.
Several car parks and public toilets are available near the lake, as well as a number of picnic areas and viewpoints. Visitors can also tour the lake by boat during the summer months.
In this post, we will outline your options for getting there, the full directions of the Grasmere and Rydal Water circular walk and answer the frequently asked questions.
Rydal Water Walk Details
Time: 3 hours
Distance: 8.7km or 5.4 miles
Elevation Gain: 375m
Map: Ordnance Survey – Explorer OL7 (The English Lakes)
Terrain: gravel, roads, tree roots, rocky, muddy
Rydal Water Circular Walk Car Park
There are two main options for parking at Rydal Caves: Pelter Bridge Car Park or White Moss Car Park. You can choose either, as the route we describe is circular, and you will be able to detour (if needed) to join the way we relate.
Pelter Bridge Car Park
This car park is more petite and fills up fast.
The address is Pelter Bridge Car Park Ambleside LA22 9LW.
It’s a pay-and-display car park with a cost of £3.50 for two hours of parking.
However, three free car parking spaces are available in a lay-by one-minute drive from the car park, but they fill up quickly.
There are no facilities such as toilets at the trailhead or along the Grasmere and Rydal Water circular walk, so visitors should plan accordingly.
You can follow the Google Maps Directions here.
White Moss Car Park
This car park is more extensive and more expensive.
The car park has many negative reviews on TripAdvisor due to the “Park With Ease” system, which records the time of arrival and departure, and charges accordingly. Many visitors had reported receiving late fines, even when they returned on time, so it’s best to be cautious.
The address is White Moss Car Park, Ambleside, LA22 9SE.
You can follow the Google Maps Directions here.
Good to know: both car parks are pay and display and accept contactless.
Top Tips for the Grasmere and Rydal Water circular walk.
- To ensure a parking spot, it is recommended to arrive early as the parking near the trailhead can fill up quickly.
- Wearing waterproof walking footwear is recommended to combat the boggy terrain.
- A great addition to this walk would be to head south and visit the Rydal Caves, free-to-explore manufactured caverns.
- Please note the trail conditions on the Grasmere and Rydal Water circular walk. It may vary depending on the weather and season, so it is essential to be prepared and check the conditions before starting the hike.
- Take food, water and snacks. Luckily, there are tea rooms along the route at Rydal Hall and Grasmere.
Rydal Water Weather
It’s essential to be prepared for any weather and adjust your hike. Your safety and comfort should always be a top priority when planning a walk, so checking the forecast ahead of time is a must.
Rydal Water Circular Walk Directions
Step 1: From Pelter Bridge Car Park to Rydal Cave
Leave Pelter Bridge car park and turn left onto the road, heading slightly uphill.
The road will bend to the right past Cote How Guest House and then back to the left before climbing, passing two cottages on the left-hand side and then four terraced cottages.
Immediately after passing these, go through a gap on the left-hand side of a gate and continue following the public bridleway sign.
Go to the gate signed by National Trust Loughrigg Fell, and continue ahead instead of walking along the path next to the water. Keep approximately 20 metres above the shoreline, with a possible detour to visit Rydal Cave.
At the intersection of a wall coming in from the right-hand side, take a bend around to the right before commencing the climb. The path then flattens out and is replaced with a wall where it crosses over a stream.
When you cross over the stream, the path bends to the right and immediately passes a large stone behind which two caves exist. Unfortunately, the first cave you see is not Rydal Cave, but you can explore it anyway. The more easily accessible and famous cave is just a few yards away.
Head past the caves and begin the climb, making sure to take a left turn when the path swings around. Ahead you will be able to spot a much larger third cave.
Make your way up to the entrance of the cave, where you’ll have two options, make your way over the stepping stones or explore the rocks on the right-hand side. You may encounter other adventurers during your journey, whichever route you choose!
Step 2: Rydal Cave to Grasmere
Upon leaving the cave, turn left toward Grasmere, continuing on the gravelled path. You will have Rydal Water to your right.
Take the right-hand fork of the path and descend towards the River Rothay. Pass through the gate before you get to the water and proceed to the lake’s shore while ignoring the route that leads to the wooden footbridge crossing the Rothay.
The path then veers left, leading uphill for a few hundred metres before you come across some wooden steps. Pass through a gate onto the Grasmere to Great Langdale Road and turn right upon meeting it – continue along this stretch for just over half a mile until you reach Grasmere.
Step 3: Grasmere to Dove Cottage
Follow the signs to Ambleside and, at the next junction, take a right and pass The Parish of St Oswald’s Church.
Cross over the bridge that leads to Stock Lane car and coach park, then reach the roundabout, where you’ll see it is intersected with A591 Ambleside to Keswick road. Make a right turn at this roundabout before crossing over the A591, and take a left just 10 metres from it – towards Wordsworth Trust Dove Cottage and Treasures of Wordsworth Trust.
Step 4: Dove Cottage to Rydal Mount
Go up the mild incline, and then, as the lane turns to the right, you’ll come across a no-through-road sign for motors pointing steeply uphill alongside a sign indicating Ambleside A591 White Moss to the right.
Take this road and ascend steeply. After roughly 30 metres, the Alcock Tarn footpath branches off to the left while you continue. The route will start flattening, running under trees next to a wall. Then it climbs again before it levels out, and Rydal Water comes in sight to your right.
The lane transitions into an unmetalled one as you reach two private houses – Brookstone – where its width expands more than half its original size as you traverse past them to the right.
Go through the gate, where there are more views over Rydal Water.
Continue to follow the direction of Rydal Mount along the Coffin Route as it goes through wooden gates.
Step 5: Rydal Mount to the Car Park
After traversing a short gravel road, bear right and make your way downhill past Rydal Mount (the home of William Wordsworth from 1813 to 1850). Keep going to pass St Mary’s Church, built in 1824.
Fun Fact: William Wordsworth worshipped here and was warden in 1833.
Once you go past the church, turn left onto the A591, and cross over the road after about again taking great care, before turning right a few hundred metres, crossing over the bridge, and turning right to reach the car park again!
Grasmere and Rydal Water circular walk complete!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Rydal Water?
Rydal Water is a small lake in the English Lake District in Cumbria, England. It is situated in the valley of Rydal, between Ambleside and Grasmere.
Can I reach Rydal Water by public transport?
Yes, you can catch the bus to walk around Rydal Water.
Instructions for taking the bus to Rydal Mount:
- Take the number 555 or 599 bus
- Get off at the “Church for Rydal Mount” stop
Note that the 555 bus runs between Kendal and Keswick via Ambleside, and the 599 bus runs between Bowness on Windermere and Grasmere via Ambleside.
Can you walk around Rydal Water?
Yes, it is possible to walk around Rydal Water. The path is excellent and easy to navigate.
How long does it take to walk around Rydal Water?
It takes about 3 hours to complete the Grasmere and Rydal Water circular walk. , slightly more extended if you walk to the Caves.
How long is the walk around Rydal Water?
It is 8.7km or 5.4 miles around Grasmere and Rydal Water’s circular walk.
Where to park to walk around Rydal Water?
You can park at White Moss Car Park or Pelter Bridge Car park to walk around the lake.
What can I do after the walk?
- Take a hike up Loughrigg Fell and explore the beautiful Loughrigg Terrace.
- Discover the charming village of Rydal and visit its many attractions, including Rydal Waterfalls, St Mary’s Church, Rydal Mount, and Rydal Hall.
- Explore the picturesque village of Grasmere and indulge in some of its famous gingerbread.
- Visit Ambleside and experience the beauty of Stock Ghyll Falls.
Overall Thoughts and Our Experience
The Rydal Water walk is a beautiful and scenic hike that offers stunning views of Rydal Water and the surrounding hills. Along the way, hikers can also visit the Rydal Caves, an artificial cavern that is free to explore.
One of the main reasons someone should go on the Rydal Water walk is for the area’s stunning natural beauty. The Lake District is known for its picturesque landscapes, and the Rydal Water walk is no exception.
The walk is suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels, making it an ideal choice for families and groups of friends. It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of the Lake District. It is a must for anyone discovering the UNESCO national park.
Exploring more of the Lake District? Please read:
Photo Credits: averagelives.com
We want to stress that ‘Average Lives’ cannot be held liable for any injuries or accidents that may occur while walking our routes. We strongly advise that you wear proper footwear to reduce the risk of injuries, and carry a paper map and compass to ensure your safety while walking. You can read more on our About Page.