Rydal Water

The basics

Many sightseeing tours of the Lake District make stops at Rydal Water—the lake’s central location and proximity to the major A591 road makes it an easy photo stop while traveling between Lake Windermere and Thirlmere. For literary fans, Rydal Water is an essential stop. Many literary-themed tours of the Lake District include stops at Wordsworth’s Seat, a lookout on the western shore; Dora’s Field, where Wordsworth planted hundreds of daffodils in memory of his daughter; the Wordsworth Museum in Grasmere; and the poet’s former residences of Rydal Mount and Dove Cottage.

Things to know before you go

• Rydal Water is a must for fans of the Romantic poets.
• Bring a swimsuit; Rydal Water is boat-free, relatively shallow, and has several pebbly beaches, making it a popular spot for wild swimming in summer.
• Find toilet facilities at the White Moss parking lot, situated off the A591 between Grasmere village and Rydal Water.

How to get there

Rydal Water is situated in the center of the Lake District National Park, along the major A591 road, making it easy to access by car. Driving from Ambleside takes less than 10 minutes. Alternatively, ride the 599 bus from Windermere or Ambleside to Rydal Mount.

When to get there

Rydal Water is busiest in summer. Spring and fall are quieter, and are good for hiking—with daffodils and bluebells to admire in spring and autumnal foliage in fall.

Walking at Rydal Water

Rydal Water is a popular walking location, with a 2.8-mile (4.5-kilometer loop trail) running around the lake’s edge. The walk is of moderate difficulty, with several short steep sections. Make the short detour from the lakeside path to Rydal Cave, a man-made cave—the result of quarrying—situated near Loughrigg Fell off the south shore of the lake.