Rydal

Rydal Village is a charming and picturesque village nestled in the heart of the Lake District. It is located between the popular tourist destinations of Grasmere and Ambleside, making it an ideal base for exploring the area. The village is surrounded by stunning scenery, including Rydal Water, a small lake that is popular with walkers and hikers.

Rydal Village is steeped in history and culture, with many literary connections. William Wordsworth, one of England’s most famous poets, lived in the village for many years and is buried in the churchyard. Visitors can follow in his footsteps by visiting his former home, Rydal Mount, which is open to the public.

The village itself is small but perfectly formed, with a handful of shops, cafes and pubs. Visitors can sample the legendary Grasmere Gingerbread, which is made to a secret recipe and sold in the village. There are also plenty of walks and hikes to enjoy in the surrounding area, including the popular Coffin Trail, which takes walkers from Rydal to Grasmere.

Location

Rydal Village is located in the heart of the Lake District National Park in Cumbria, England. It is situated between the villages of Grasmere and Ambleside, and is just a few miles north of Windermere.

Geography

The village is surrounded by stunning natural beauty, with rolling hills, sparkling lakes, and dense forests. Rydal Water, one of the smallest lakes in the Lake District, is situated just to the east of the village. The lake is popular with walkers and hikers, who enjoy the scenic footpaths that wind around its shores.

Rydal Village itself is small and picturesque, with traditional stone cottages, a historic church, and a number of charming shops and cafes. The village is also home to Rydal Mount, the former home of the poet William Wordsworth, which is open to visitors throughout the year.

Transportation

Rydal Village is easily accessible by car, with good road links to the surrounding towns and villages. There is limited on-street parking in the village, but visitors can also park at the nearby White Moss car park and walk into the village from there.

For those travelling by public transport, there are regular bus services to Rydal Village from Ambleside and Grasmere. The nearest train station is Windermere, which is approximately 5 miles south of Rydal Village.

History

Early History

Rydal village is located in the heart of the Lake District and has a rich history dating back to the medieval times. The village was originally contained within the large Grasmere Parish, until it gained parish status in 1826. The name Rydal is derived from Old Norse meaning “valley where rye was grown” and is first mentioned in 1240. Its ancient manor boundary was described in 1274 and the Rydal Park dates from 1277.

The village was once a hub for agriculture and farming, with the surrounding valleys providing fertile land for crops and grazing. The villagers also relied on the nearby rivers and lakes for fishing and water supply. The area was also known for its slate mines, and the slate from Rydal was used for housing and to create the famous roofs seen on top of buildings today.

Modern History

During the 19th century, Rydal became a popular destination for painters, writers and poets in search of picturesque and romantic notions of beauty. William Wordsworth, the famous English poet, came to live in the area in 1799 and spent much time walking in the area, composing lines of poetry based on what he experienced. His most inspirational years were spent at Dove Cottage (1799-1808), which is located just a short distance from Rydal village.

The outbreak of the First World War changed the whole character of country life as it was then known. In those days, Rydal Hall employed a large staff of grooms, gardeners, woodmen and so on, but with the passing of the years, all of these jobs became redundant. Today, Rydal is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to experience its natural beauty, rich history and cultural heritage.

Attractions

Rydal Mount

Rydal Mount is a beautiful house located in Rydal Village. It was home to the famous poet William Wordsworth from 1813 until his death in 1850. Visitors can explore the house and its stunning gardens, which were designed by Wordsworth himself. The gardens contain a rock garden, a fern garden, and a beautiful orchard. The house also has a tearoom where visitors can enjoy a cup of tea and a slice of cake while taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding countryside.

Rydal Water

Rydal Water is a small lake located in the heart of the Lake District. It is surrounded by beautiful woodland and provides a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the scenery. Visitors can take a walk around the lake and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. There are also several picnic areas around the lake where visitors can enjoy a picnic lunch.

St. Mary’s Church

St. Mary’s Church is a beautiful church located in the centre of Rydal Village. It was built in the 19th century and is known for its stunning stained glass windows. Visitors can explore the church and learn about its history. The church is also home to several musical events throughout the year.

Overall, Rydal Village is a beautiful place to visit in the Lake District. Visitors can explore the stunning countryside, visit historic attractions, and enjoy a peaceful break away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Accommodations

Hotels

Rydal has a few hotels that offer comfortable accommodations with scenic views of the Lake District. One of the popular options is the Glen Rothay Hotel, which offers en-suite rooms with modern amenities. The hotel has a restaurant that serves delicious local cuisine and a bar that offers a wide selection of drinks. Another option is the Rydal Lodge, which boasts luxury rooms finished to a high standard. The hotel has a garden and river view and is located near the dramatic Lakeland fells.

B&Bs

Rydal has some great B&Bs that offer a more intimate and personalised experience. One of the options is the Ivy Guest House, which has en-suite rooms with comfortable beds and modern amenities. The guest house serves a delicious breakfast in the morning and has a garden where guests can relax. Another option is the Foxghyll Country House B&B, which offers spacious rooms with stunning views of the Lake District. The B&B has a garden and a terrace where guests can enjoy the outdoors.

Cottages

Rydal has some charming cottages that offer a cosy and rustic experience. One of the options is the Rydal Mount Cottage, which is a traditional Lakeland cottage that has been recently renovated. The cottage has a well-equipped kitchen, a cosy living room with a fireplace, and two bedrooms. Another option is the Rydal Cottage, which is a charming 18th-century cottage that has been beautifully restored. The cottage has a garden and a patio where guests can enjoy the outdoors.

Activities

Rydal Village is a great base for outdoor activities in the Lake District. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely walk, a challenging hike, or a thrilling bike ride, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the top activities to enjoy in Rydal Village and the surrounding area:

Hiking

Rydal Village is surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, making it the perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts. The area offers a range of hiking trails, from easy walks to challenging climbs. For a leisurely stroll, head to Rydal Water, a picturesque lake that offers a gentle circular walk. For a more challenging hike, try the Fairfield Horseshoe, a circular route that takes in several peaks and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Cycling

Rydal Village and the surrounding area are a paradise for cyclists, with a range of routes to suit all abilities. For a gentle ride, try the Rydal Water circuit, a 5-mile route that takes in stunning scenery and is suitable for families. For a more challenging ride, try the Grasmere to Keswick route, a 20-mile route that takes in some of the Lake District’s most spectacular scenery.

Fishing

Rydal Water is a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts, with a range of fish species to catch, including brown trout, pike, and perch. Fishing permits are available from local shops and hotels, and there are plenty of spots around the lake to cast your line.