Rydal Water Walk

Rydal Water is one the smallest lakes in the Lake District, measuring just 3/4 mile long and 1/4 mile wide. Despite its tiny size, Rydal Water is a very popular spot for things to do in the Lake District.

One of these things to do is the 2.8-mile walk which offers scenic views of the gorgeous lake. It’s also within reach of its famous Wordsworth connections. You will find steps that lead up the western end of the lake to the ‘Wordsworth’s Seat’, which is said to be the poet’s favourite viewpoint.

For a pleasant afternoon in the Lakes, be sure to try the Rydal Water Walk.

The Walk

Directions

Facilities

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Lake District on this Rydal Water walk. There are eight waypoints along the way to stop and observe your surroundings, with scenic views aplenty including woodland and lakeland.

Be sure to keep an eye out for Heron Island in the middle of Rydal Water – can you spot a heron?

The walk begins in Rydal opposite Dora’s Field which has links to Wordsworth. This spot is well-worth a visit for its plethora of beautiful daffodils and rich history waiting to be discovered.

Please be aware there are some climbs and assents on this walk.

Disclaimer

Sykes Cottages has made every attempt to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information provided on this website. However, the information is provided “as is” without warranty of any kind. Sykes Cottages does not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained on this website.

Dogs on leads
Hiking
Child-friendly
Running
Birdwatching

Directions

Start facing St Mary’s Church in Rydal before venturing right up the lane, passing Rydal Mount on your left.
Follow the track left behind Rydal Mount, known as the Coffin Route.
Continue along Coffin Road to see the grounds of Rydal Mount to your left. Follow the well-defined track past oak trees to eventually bring you to a gate leading you through a wall towards the woods above Nab Cottage.
Continue along the path until you reach a fork in the road. Take the path left here.
Follow the steep track downhill, passing the White Moss Waterfall. Cross over the A591 and follow along the path opposite.
Follow the path through the White Moss Woodland, bearing right to cross the footbridge. Follow the path with the River Rothay on your left, before reaching the larger footbridge, White Moss Bridge.
Cross over the bridge and follow the path leading you away from the river, taking you through White Moss Common Wood.
Take the left path at the next fork in the road before going through the gate in the stone wall.
Turn left at the T junction and stay on the path running closest to Rydal Water on your left.
Bear left before reaching a gate taking you through a woodland. Follow through the field and take the footbridge over the River Rothay.
Pass through the stone wall gap and cross the main road over the A591 to the far pavement, taking a right here.
Take the first lane on the left to arrive back at St Mary’s Church.

Rydal Water Walk

Rydal Water Walk

Useful Information

Start point

End point

Wheelchair Accessible

Terrain type

Walk time

Distance

Shape

Route Difficulty

Disclaimer

Directions