Rydal Water

Rydal Water

Location : Rydal Village
 

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.

 

image of Rydal Water

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

 

image of Rydal cave

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.

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

image of Rydal Water and Loughrigg from the slopes of Nab Scar

Just a short walk from the lake’s edge is Rydal Hall, a conference centre and retreat owned by the Diocese of Carlisle. The gardens are open to the public.
 
There are also privately owned Shepherd’s Huts holiday accommodation to rent in an idyllic location near the hall, which have use of its facilities (see website link below).
 
Part of the lake is owned by the National Trust.
 

Rydal Water
Rydal Water
Rydal Water
Rydal Cave
Rydal Cave
Rydal Water
Rydal Water


 

Accommodation Links:

  • The Herdwick Huts – luxury Glamping in 5 Shepherd’s Huts in an idyllic location close to Rydal Hall

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Grid Ref : NY 355062