Rydal Cave: The Historic Slate Quarry of the Lake District

Discover the captivating man-made slate cavern above Rydal Water, blending industrial heritage with Lake District natural beauty.

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Rydal Cave, near Ambleside in England's Lake District, is a large man-made cavern formed from 19th-century slate quarrying. Set above Rydal Water on Loughrigg Fell, it offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial heritage. The cave features stepping stones across a shallow pool at its entrance and a spacious dry floor inside. Open 24/7 with free access, it’s a popular spot for hikers and history enthusiasts exploring the scenic Rothay Valley.

A brief summary to Rydal Cave

Ambleside, Rydal, LA22 9LW, GB
Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
Free
Outdoor
Mobile reception: 4 out of 5

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Wear sturdy boots as the path to and inside the cave is rocky and uneven.
Bring a torch to safely explore the darker parts of the cave.
Arrive early to find parking at Pelter Bridge or White Moss car parks, especially during peak times.
Visit during daylight hours for the best experience and safety.
Combine your visit with nearby walks to Rydal Water and sites linked to William Wordsworth.

Getting There

Car

Drive to Pelter Bridge Car Park or White Moss Car Park near Rydal. Parking is limited and can fill quickly during peak seasons. From either car park, expect a 15-20 minute uphill walk on rocky paths to reach the cave. Parking fees typically range around £3-5.
Bus and Walk

Take the 555 bus service from Ambleside to Rydal village, which runs approximately every 30-60 minutes. From Rydal village, it is about a 20-minute walk uphill to the cave on uneven terrain. Suitable for walkers comfortable with moderate uphill routes.
Walking from Ambleside

A scenic 2.2-mile walk from Ambleside to Rydal Cave takes around 50 minutes, following paths alongside the River Rothay and through woodland. The route involves some uphill sections and uneven ground, requiring sturdy footwear.

Rydal Cave location weather suitability

Any Weather
Rain / Wet Weather
Clear Skies
Mild Temperatures

Discover more about Rydal Cave

Origins of a Man-Made Wonder

Rydal Cave is not a natural formation but the remnant of a 19th-century slate quarry known as Loughrigg Quarry. This quarry was part of the Lake District’s extensive slate mining industry, which supplied roofing materials for local buildings, including iconic structures like Ambleside’s Bridge House. Over time, quarrying ceased, and the site was preserved as a public attraction. The cave’s rugged walls and cavernous interior tell the story of industrial heritage set amidst the region’s famed natural landscape.

Setting and Scenic Surroundings

Nestled on the northern slopes of Loughrigg Fell, Rydal Cave overlooks the tranquil Rydal Water, a small lake fed and drained by the River Rothay. The area around the cave is rich in literary and cultural history, with connections to William Wordsworth and other Romantic poets who frequented the nearby villages of Rydal and Grasmere. The walk to the cave passes through woodland and riverside paths, offering picturesque views and a peaceful atmosphere.

Exploring the Cave Experience

Visitors approach the cave by crossing stepping stones over a shallow pool at the entrance, which often teems with small fish. Inside, the cave opens into a dry, spacious floor where the quarrying marks are visible. A torch is recommended to explore darker recesses safely. The path can be rocky and uneven, so sturdy footwear is advised. The cave’s unique blend of natural elements and industrial traces creates a magical ambiance, especially when sunlight filters through the entrance or reflects off the water.

Access and Visitor Information

Rydal Cave is freely accessible at all times, with no entrance fees or tickets required. Popular starting points include Pelter Bridge and White Moss car parks, both offering nearby parking but filling quickly during peak periods. The cave is reachable via a moderate uphill walk from these points or longer scenic routes from Ambleside and Grasmere villages. Visitors should plan to visit during daylight hours for safety and the best experience.

Local Significance and Cultural Links

The cave and surrounding area hold cultural significance beyond their industrial past. The nearby Rydal Water and Loughrigg Fell have inspired poets and artists for centuries. Rydal Cave itself was featured in popular media such as Netflix’s 'The Witcher,' highlighting its atmospheric appeal. The site is a testament to the Lake District’s layered history, where natural beauty and human endeavor intertwine.

Practical Tips for Visitors

While the cave is accessible year-round, visitors should be prepared for uneven terrain and potentially slippery surfaces inside the cave. Bringing a torch enhances safety and enjoyment. Early arrival is recommended to secure parking and avoid crowds. The surrounding area offers additional walking trails and historic sites, making Rydal Cave an excellent part of a broader Lake District exploration.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lodore Falls

15.7 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lodore Falls, a stunning waterfall in Keswick, where nature's splendor awaits every visitor.

Surprise View

15.8 km

Explore the breathtaking panoramic views of Surprise View in the Lake District, an ultimate destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Ashness Bridge

16.3 km

Explore Ashness Bridge, a picturesque stone bridge in the Lake District that offers stunning views and access to beautiful hiking trails.

Stott Park Bobbin Mill

17.7 km

Explore the historical Stott Park Bobbin Mill in the Lake District, a fascinating heritage site showcasing traditional bobbin-making in a stunning natural setting.

Eskdale Mill

18.4 km

Experience the rich history and stunning landscapes at Eskdale Mill, a heritage museum nestled in the heart of the Lake District.

Friars Crag

18.8 km

Explore the natural beauty of Friars Crag, a stunning lakeside attraction in Keswick, perfect for hiking, photography, and peaceful retreats in the Lake District.

Castlerigg Stone Circle

18.9 km

Explore the ancient Castlerigg Stone Circle in the heart of the Lake District, a historical landmark surrounded by breathtaking landscapes and rich heritage.

National Trust - Fell Foot

19.0 km

Discover the natural beauty of Fell Foot Park, where serene gardens meet breathtaking views of Lake Windermere, perfect for a peaceful escape.

Stanley Ghyll Waterfall

19.1 km

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Stanley Ghyll Waterfall in Eskdale, a must-visit natural wonder in the Lake District National Park.

Keswick Methodist Church

19.6 km

Explore the serenity and community spirit at Keswick Methodist Church, a historical landmark in the heart of Keswick, perfect for quiet reflection and local events.

Keswick War Memorial

19.7 km

A solemn Grade II listed monument honoring Keswick’s fallen heroes, set against the tranquil beauty of the Lake District.

Moss Force Waterfall

19.9 km

Experience the serene beauty of Moss Force Waterfall, a hidden treasure in the heart of Cockermouth, perfect for hiking and nature appreciation.

The Cockpit Stone Circle

20.8 km

Explore The Cockpit Stone Circle, an ancient historical site near Penrith, where history and natural beauty converge in a tranquil setting.

Lake District National Park Authority

22.4 km

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Lake District National Park, a treasure trove of stunning landscapes, rich history, and outdoor adventures waiting for you.

National Trust - Sizergh

22.9 km

Discover the enchanting Sizergh Manor, a historical gem in the Lake District with beautiful gardens and rich heritage.

Discover the inspiring Georgian villa of Allan Bank, nestled in Grasmere’s scenic woodland with rich literary and conservation heritage.

National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere

Essential places to dine

Dodds Restaurant

2.4 km

Authentic Italian and modern European cuisine served with warmth in the heart of Ambleside’s scenic Lake District.

The Jumble Room

2.5 km

Vibrant bohemian restaurant in Grasmere serving creative international dishes with local Cumbrian produce in a lively, eclectic setting.

The Priest Hole Restaurant

2.6 km

Historic charm meets hearty British cuisine in the heart of Ambleside, with locally sourced dishes and a welcoming atmosphere.

Lucy's on a plate

2.6 km

A vibrant English bistro in Ambleside blending local flavors with eclectic style and a welcoming atmosphere.

The Old Stamp House Restaurant

2.6 km

Experience a Michelin-starred culinary journey through Cumbria’s rich heritage in the historic heart of Ambleside.

Lake Road Kitchen

2.6 km

An intimate Michelin-starred restaurant in Ambleside blending Nordic flair with Lake District’s finest local produce.

Stove Restaurant & Bar

3.0 km

Relaxed dining with wood-fired pizzas and seasonal dishes in the heart of the Lake District’s Great Langdale.

The Samling Hotel

4.3 km

Exclusive boutique hotel perched above Lake Windermere, blending Michelin-star dining, elegant suites, and breathtaking panoramic views.

Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery

4.5 km

A charming Lake District inn blending hearty cuisine, on-site brewed ales, and cozy accommodation in a rustic country setting.

Blue Smoke on the Bay

4.8 km

Experience exquisite wood-fired cuisine with stunning Lake Windermere views at Blue Smoke on the Bay, Low Wood Bay's stylish lakeside restaurant.

Windermere Restaurant (The W)

4.9 km

Seasonal British and continental cuisine with stunning panoramic views over Lake Windermere at Low Wood Bay Resort & Spa.

The Gaddum

5.9 km

Elegant dining and refined afternoon tea in a historic Arts and Crafts setting overlooking Brockhole's gardens on Windermere.

New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale

6.0 km

Rustic hotel and lively bar nestled in Langdale Valley, perfect for walkers seeking comfort and community in the Lake District.

Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale

6.9 km

A welcoming climbers’ inn with traditional charm, hearty fare, and stunning mountain views in the heart of Great Langdale.

Applegarth Villa & Restaurant

9.2 km

A refined country house hotel and bistro-style restaurant in Windermere, offering elegant rooms, excellent food, and warm family-run hospitality with views of the Lake District fells.

Step into a storybook world at Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd, Keswick’s enchanting toy shop and café inspired by Beatrix Potter’s beloved characters.

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

The Talbot Bar

2.6 km

Cozy Lakeland pub with hearty traditional fare, local ales, and a warm, dog-friendly atmosphere near Ambleside.

The Vault

2.6 km

Historic charm meets fresh cocktails and tapas in Ambleside’s vibrant social hub, The Vault.

The Lily Bar

2.7 km

Ambleside’s independent bar blending rustic charm, local ales, live music, and quality dining in the heart of the Lake District.

Wainwrights' Inn

3.3 km

A traditional Lakeland pub in Chapel Stile offering hearty local fare, fine ales, and a warm welcome near the Langdale Estate.

Queens Head, Troutbeck

6.2 km

Historic Lake District pub and inn offering hearty fare, local ales, and cosy rooms with stunning Troutbeck Valley views.

Lake District Cocktail Co.

6.9 km

Experience the art of cocktail crafting in the stunning Lake District with Lake District Cocktail Co., a mobile catering service that brings the bar to you.

The Windermere Speakeasy

9.1 km

A cozy, versatile cocktail bar and eatery in Windermere offering creative drinks, sharing platters, and a welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.

Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu

9.2 km

A lively craft beer bar in Windermere with quirky decor, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the Lake District.

The Crafty Baa Windermere

9.2 km

A vibrant, quirky bar and tapas spot in Windermere, famed for its eclectic décor, craft drinks, and lively, welcoming atmosphere.

The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint

9.2 km

Discover the cozy charm of The Smallest Pub in The Lake District, where craft ales meet homemade pies in Windermere’s most intimate setting.

The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint

Hole in t' Wall

10.0 km

Historic Lakeland pub offering hearty food, cask ales, and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.

Lago

10.0 km

Lago is a lively bar in Bowness-on-Windermere known for its quality cocktails, sharing platters, and welcoming atmosphere near the heart of the Lake District.

The Albert

10.0 km

A lively, traditional pub in Bowness-on-Windermere offering local ales, hearty food, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere year-round.

The Easy Breeze

10.0 km

A vibrant bar and restaurant blending Lakeland charm, live music, and flavorful street food in the heart of Bowness-on-Windermere.

The Fizzy Tarté

10.1 km

A vibrant cocktail bar and café in Bowness-on-Windermere serving stylish drinks and fresh afternoon tea in a lively, chic setting.

Nightclubs & after hour spots

Windermere Social Club

9.5 km

A friendly and versatile social club in Windermere offering games, sports viewing, and community events in a welcoming atmosphere.

Wheelhouse Nightclub

10.1 km

Experience vibrant weekend nightlife with dynamic music, drinks, and dancing at Wheelhouse Nightclub in scenic Bowness-on-Windermere.

The loose moose

29.1 km

A lively and welcoming nightclub in Penrith offering cocktails, music, and community spirit in the heart of Cumbria’s Eden District.

secret bridge

39.4 km

Experience vibrant nightlife and lively music at Secret Bridge, Milburn’s premier nightclub near Penrith in the scenic Eden District.

The Lounge C9

39.5 km

Experience Barrow-in-Furness’ vibrant nightlife at The Lounge C9, where music, drinks, and community come alive every weekend.

Manhattans Nightclub

39.6 km

Barrow-in-Furness’s top nightclub for themed parties, DJ nights, and vibrant late-night entertainment on Cavendish Street.

Hollywood Nightclub

39.6 km

Experience the vibrant late-night pulse of Barrow-in-Furness at Hollywood Nightclub, where music and dance light up Cavendish Street.

Secret Carlisle

49.9 km

Experience energetic nights and vibrant music at Secret Carlisle, the city centre nightclub where Carlisle’s historic charm meets modern nightlife.

Club Britannia

50.2 km

A vibrant social club in Carlisle offering live music, friendly vibes, and affordable drinks in a smart, welcoming setting.

Carlisle R A O B Club

50.5 km

Historic social club in Carlisle offering lively events and a welcoming atmosphere rooted in the Royal Antediluvian Order of Buffaloes tradition.

Black Box Music Institute

50.5 km

An intimate old-style nightclub and cultural hub in Carlisle offering live music, festivals, and art exhibitions in a vibrant setting.

Hawes Club

54.2 km

Discover the charm of Hawes Club, a cozy bar offering affordable drinks and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Yorkshire's stunning Dales.

Settle Working Mens Club

62.6 km

Discover the charm of Settle Working Mens Club, a local bar offering authentic community spirit, affordable drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere in Settle.

The George Inn

63.3 km

Experience rustic charm and modern comforts at The George Inn, a delightful bar and cafe in the heart of the Yorkshire Dales.

Peek A Booze

69.1 km

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Peek A Booze, Blackpool's lively bar offering a diverse atmosphere and affordable drinks for all.

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Rydal Cave: The Historic Slate Quarry of the Lake District

A brief summary to Rydal Cave

Local tips

For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you

Getting There

Car

Bus and Walk

Walking from Ambleside

Rydal Cave location weather suitability

Unlock the Best of Rydal Cave

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Rydal Cave

Origins of a Man-Made Wonder

Setting and Scenic Surroundings

Exploring the Cave Experience

Access and Visitor Information

Local Significance and Cultural Links

Practical Tips for Visitors

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Lodore Falls

Surprise View

Ashness Bridge

Stott Park Bobbin Mill

Eskdale Mill

Friars Crag

Castlerigg Stone Circle

National Trust - Fell Foot

Stanley Ghyll Waterfall

Keswick Methodist Church

Keswick War Memorial

Moss Force Waterfall

The Cockpit Stone Circle

Lake District National Park Authority

National Trust - Sizergh

Unmissable attractions to see

Rydal Mount and Gardens

Stepping Stones

Wordsworth Grasmere

Rothay Park

Armitt Library & Museum Centre

The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop

The Bridge House

Wordsworth Daffodil Garden

Golden Rule

White Platts Recreation Ground

Faeryland Grasmere

RockShop

Ambleside Town Centre

Heaton Cooper Studio Ltd

National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere

Essential places to dine

Dodds Restaurant

The Jumble Room

The Priest Hole Restaurant

Lucy's on a plate

The Old Stamp House Restaurant

Lake Road Kitchen

Stove Restaurant & Bar

The Samling Hotel

Drunken Duck Inn & Barngates Brewery

Blue Smoke on the Bay

Windermere Restaurant (The W)

The Gaddum

New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale

Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale

Applegarth Villa & Restaurant

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Booths, Windermere

Forget Me Not

The Original Man Shop

Pretty Things

Herdy Bowness

Tesco Express

LAKELAND Leather

Mountain Warehouse

Lonsdale Galleries

Love the Lakes Bowness

CONQUER Trading Post