Wordsworth’s Grasmere and Rydal Circular Walk

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Moderate
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3.5-5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
12.7 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
503 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead
Wordsworth’s Grasmere and Rydal Circular Walk

Wordsworth’s Grasmere and Rydal Circular is a fantastic adventure that will take you arounds several charming bodies of water that are surrounded by some of the most scenic terrain that can be found in the Lake District. The route will take you from the village of Grasmere around Rydal Water and Grasmere Lake to enjoy views of nearby fells like Loughrigg Fell and Nab Scar. This is a fun walk that can (and should) be enjoyed by walkers of nearly every skill level.

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Route Description for Wordsworth’s Grasmere and Rydal Circular Walk

Walking the Wordsworth’s Grasmere and Rydal Circular is a popular outdoor activity in the Lake District, thanks to its picturesque scenery and easy-going trail. The route sets out from the car park and heads to the northwest, crossing over the River Rothay to pass through the tranquil setting of the Wordsworth Daffodil Garden. From here, you will continue north to loop around Butharlyp Howe before following the winding banks of the river back towards the car park where you started the walk. Pass by the trailhead and continue to the southeast, following the trail as it traverses the foot of Nab Scar for some beautiful views overlooking Rydal Water. Follow the trail as it turns to the west and skirts along the southern shore of Rydal Water below the shadow of Loughrigg Tarn. Arriving at the edge of Grasmere Lake, walk along its western shore and enjoy some more stunning waterside views on the return journey back to the car park.

Getting to the Wordsworth’s Grasmere and Rydal Circular Walk Trailhead

To reach the car park for the Wordsworth’s Grasmere and Rydal Circular Walk from Ambleside, drive north on Rydal Road/A591 for 5.6 km and take the first exit at the roundabout onto Stock Lane. Follow this for 0.2 km to find the car park on the right.

Route Information

  • When to do

    March-October

  • Backcountry Campsites

    YHA Hostel Grasmere, Rydal Hall Campsite

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Circuit

Wordsworth’s Grasmere and Rydal Circular Walk Elevation Graph

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Wordsworth’s Grasmere and Rydal Circular Walk Reviews

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