Sunset view of Grasmere, dark green woodland surrounding the lake, bluebells in foreground

Explore Grasmere and Rydal

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Grasmere village and Grasmere Water

Nestling at the foot of some spectacular fells and with its own lake, this village has many shops, pubs and cafes. Popular walks include following Red Bank Road and then the footpath along the west shore of the lake towards Rydal Water. With no motor boats, this quieter lake is great for swimming and rowing. In the summer you can hire rowing boats on the lake. You can also visit Wordsworth’s grave in the churchyard and buy the legendary Grasmere Gingerbread ® . Explore where to stay in Grasmere and see available accommodation on Visit Lake District, Cumbria.

Rydal Water

This small lake often has beautiful reflections to the west of Loughrigg fell. Dora’s Field, named after Wordsworth’s daughter, is next to the church and is covered in daffodils in springtime. On the western side of the lake is a footpath up to Loughrigg Terrace and its huge cave, formed by quarrying. Another of the smaller, quiet lakes that’s increasingly popular for wild swimming. Read our top tips on where to swim in the Lake District, how to keep safe and how to deal with cold water when wild swimming.

Walking routes near Grasmere and Rydal

People walking through woodland on a path on a Lake District National Park guided walk

Free guided walks

We host free guided walks near Grasmere and Rydal.

Book a guided walk

adult female wheelchair user on wide gravel path by grasmere lake

Miles without Stiles routes, easy access routes

The Grasmere and Rydal area has 2 easy-access routes suitable for those with limited mobility, wheelchairs, trampers, pushchairs, visual impairments, young children and legs that need care. The routes have no stiles and are graded for some, many or all with descriptions on length, terrain, path type and facilities.

Route 9: White Moss Common – Miles without Stiles route
Route 10: Grasmere Riverside – Miles without Stiles route

See all accessible routes

Getting to and around Grasmere and Rydal

green double decker bus on tarmac road under green tree canopy

Bus service

Bus service 599 runs between Bowness, Windermere, Rydal and Grasmere. In summer it runs up to every 20 minutes with an open top service. Service 555 runs from Lancaster and Kendal to Keswick via Grasmere and Rydal. Visit Stagecoach or Traveline to plan your journey.

More travel information