Grasmere Trail
Grasmere Trail
This delightful 8.68 km (one-way) route follows lakeshore paths and minor roads beside Grasmere and Rydal Water.
Difficulty
Easy
Duration
3 hours
Distance
8.68km / 5.39miles
Route
You can now cycle or walk on the Grasmere Trail which links Ambleside and Grasmere via the shores of Rydal Water and Grasmere.
From Grasmere, follow Red Bank Road for just under a mile (1.3km) up the hill to the bridleway signed to the left, National Cycle Network route 6. Down a steep hill (take care if cycling), then follow the lakeside path to the footbridge at the outlet from Grasmere. Cross the footbridge and follow the track through lovely Penny Rock Wood to the next footbridge, which you cross. Follow the bridleway up through the woodlands and turn left when you reach the open fell. Follow this path with great views over Rydal Water, then down to the lake shore for great picnic spots.
Keep right as you reach the wood at Steps End to join the minor road towards Pelter Bridge. Just before the bridge, turn right and follow the under Loughrigg Road, which although a road, is restricted to residents only. This will take you to Ambleside.
Details
Start: Ambleside or Grasmere
Distance: 8.68km / 5.39miles one way, either catch the bus back or retrace your route.
Getting there: Frequent buses link Ambleside and Grasmere with Windermere, Bowness and beyond. More details available at www.traveline.info
