Rydal Caves

Take a short trip north from our Windermere campsite towards Ambleside and you can easily navigate your way to the stunning Rydal Caves. It is one of the great free things to do in the Lake District.

It is located on the slopes of Loughrigg Fell above Rydal Water. It is a man made cavern created through the extraction of roofing slate carried out here a century or more ago. Long disused, the cave can be entered by the public for free. There are a number of handy stepping stones along which you can plot your way into the cave.

As well as being a great place to explore it can provide an excellent snow shelter if the weather turns wintery. There are dry areas around the edges with a number of rock seats where you can perch. These are great to grab a bite to eat if you are in need of a cool lunch stop.

Getting to Rydal Caves

The best way to get to the caves is to take the well sign posted route from Ambleside. It’s a short and fairly easy walk from the town. The route follows a country lane along the River Rothay to Rydal Water.

You then climb through woodland towards the caves. It is a popular spot with walkers so you can expect some company when on your visit. As mentioned above you can enter the caves on a series of stepping stones to have a look around inside.

There’s nice views down to the lake and the option of extending your journey by continuing along our Rydal Water Walk or climbing to the nearby Loughrigg Fell.

Enjoy your trip!