Rydal Falls

Rydal Falls

A Lake District landmark, with literary connections. Rydal Falls is located only a short distance from Rydal Mount, home of poet William Wordsworth for the final 37 years of his life, and a walk to the falls can easily be combined with a visit to Rydal Mount.

To reach Rydal Falls, park along the lane leading off the A591 Ambleside to Grasmere road. If the lane is full (always a possibility in high season) park at the small parking lot across the bridge on the A591 just south of Rydal Mount.

Walk up the lane leading to Rydal Mount, and pass the house on your left. Keep going straight up, following the stone wall on your right. You are now walking in the footsteps of Wordsworth, who would have taken this path many times.

Behind the wall is Rydal House, now a conference centre and retreat. Pass the entrance to the Hall on your right. You are now on the old Coffin Road, the trail used to carry coffins from Ambleside for burial in Grasmere.

Keep following the stone wall as it goes through a gate and turns right. A hundred yards on there is a kissing gate on your right, signposted to the falls. Go through the gate, and follow the trail through woodlands to the waterfall.

There are two falls. The first is located where the path reaches the river and a footbridge crosses over. The second, more impressive falls is further uphill. Cross the footbridge and follow the path to your left, up the hill for a hundred yards. The falls are easily seen.

To return, simply retrace your steps. The going is very easy but can be slippery in wet weather. It should take no more than ten minutes to reach the falls from Rydal Mount.