'Rydal Water'

Location : Rydal Village
Map - Ordnance Survey - NY 355062

Loughrigg and Rydal Water from the slopes of Nab Scar Photo by Ann Bowker

Rydal Water is one of the smallest lakes at 3/4 mile long, 1/4 mile wide and with a depth of 55 feet, but it is very popular partly because of its Wordsworth connections. Steps lead up from the western end of the lake to 'Wordsworth's Seat' - reputedly the poet's favourite viewpoint.

Overlooking the lake is Nab Cottage, once home to Thomas Quincey and Hartley Coleridge, the son of Samual Taylor Coleridge.

There is a pleasant walk round Rydal Water which can also include Dove Cottage and Rydal Mount, two of Wordsworth's homes, and which also passes Rydal Cave - a large cavern in the hill above the lake.

Part of the lake is owned by the National Trust.