Rydal Cave: Historic Slate Quarry and Scenic Lake District Gem
Explore the atmospheric man-made Rydal Cave, a historic slate quarry nestled beside tranquil Rydal Water in the scenic English Lake District.
Rydal Cave, located near Ambleside in England's Lake District, is a striking man-made cavern formed from a 19th-century slate quarry. Once a bustling site for slate mining used in traditional roofing, the cave now offers visitors an atmospheric exploration spot with stepping stones across shallow water and scenic views of Rydal Water. Surrounded by woodland and walking trails, it’s a favored destination for hikers and nature lovers seeking a blend of history and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Rydal Cave
- Ambleside, Rydal, LA22 9LW, GB
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Budget
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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 footwear as paths to the cave can be rocky and slippery, especially after rain.
- Bring a torch to explore the cave’s darker interior safely.
- Park early at White Moss or Pelter Bridge car parks to secure a spot and avoid peak crowds.
- Check weather conditions before visiting, as heavy rain may flood the cave entrance.
- Combine your visit with nearby walks around Rydal Water and Loughrigg Fell for a fuller Lake District experience.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Drive to White Moss or Pelter Bridge car parks near Rydal, with parking fees around £2.50 to £3.50 for a few hours. From the car parks, expect a 20 to 30-minute moderate walk on gravel and woodland paths to reach the cave. Parking can be limited during peak times.
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Bus
Take local bus services from Ambleside or Grasmere to Rydal village; from there, it is approximately a 30-minute walk to the cave via marked trails. Bus services vary seasonally, so check current timetables.
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Walking
From Ambleside, a scenic 2.2-mile walk along the River Rothay and woodland paths leads to Rydal Cave, taking about 50 minutes. The trail includes some uphill sections and uneven terrain, suitable for experienced walkers.
Rydal Cave location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Rydal Cave
Origins of a Man-Made Cavern
Rydal Cave is not a natural formation but the remnant of the Loughrigg Quarry, a slate mining site active in the 19th century. The slate extracted here was prized for roofing, contributing to iconic Lake District architecture such as the Bridge House in nearby Ambleside. Over time, quarrying ceased, leaving behind the cavernous space that visitors explore today. The cave’s entrance is partially flooded, with stepping stones allowing access to the drier inner chamber, creating a unique blend of industrial heritage and natural ambiance.Setting Amidst Rydal Water and Woodland
Perched on the north side of Loughrigg Fell, the cave overlooks Rydal Water, a small lake renowned for its tranquil beauty. The surrounding landscape features mossy walls, mature trees, and the gentle flow of the River Rothay nearby. Walking paths lead through woodland and along the lake’s edge, offering picturesque views and peaceful spots for rest or photography. The area’s natural charm complements the cave’s rugged quarry features, making it a rewarding destination for outdoor enthusiasts.Exploration and Visitor Experience
Visitors access Rydal Cave via several walking routes, with the most popular starting points including the White Moss and Pelter Bridge car parks. The approach involves a moderate uphill walk through quiet roads and woodland trails. Inside the cave, the atmosphere is cool and shadowy, with the sound of dripping water and glimpses of small fish in the shallow pools. The cave’s scale, with a jagged mouth approximately 30 feet tall, invites exploration and photography. Nearby, the landscape continues with paths leading to viewpoints over Rydal Water and further Lake District fells.Practical Considerations and Amenities
Parking is available at White Moss and Pelter Bridge car parks, both pay-and-display with varying charges and limited free roadside spaces. Facilities near the cave are minimal, with no toilets directly at the trailhead, so visitors should plan accordingly. The walking paths include some rocky and slippery sections, especially after rain, so sturdy footwear is recommended. The cave is accessible year-round, though water levels at the entrance may vary with weather conditions.Cultural and Media Connections
Rydal Cave and its surroundings have inspired literary figures such as William Wordsworth, who frequented the area. More recently, the cave gained wider recognition through its appearance in Season 2 of the Netflix series 'The Witcher,' highlighting its dramatic and atmospheric qualities. This cultural resonance enriches the visitor experience, linking natural and historical significance with contemporary popular culture.Conservation and Visitor Responsibility
As a cherished Lake District site, Rydal Cave benefits from ongoing preservation efforts to maintain its structural integrity and natural environment. Visitors are encouraged to respect the area by following Leave No Trace principles, particularly regarding waste disposal and minimizing disturbance to wildlife and vegetation. The balance between public enjoyment and conservation ensures that Rydal Cave remains a captivating destination for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Surprise View
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Ashness Bridge
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Stott Park Bobbin Mill
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Eskdale Mill
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Friars Crag
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Castlerigg Stone Circle
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Stanley Ghyll Waterfall
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Keswick Methodist Church
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Keswick War Memorial
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Moss Force Waterfall
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The Cockpit Stone Circle
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Unmissable attractions to see
Rydal Mount and Gardens
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Stepping Stones
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Wordsworth Grasmere
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Rothay Park
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Armitt Library & Museum Centre
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The Bridge House
2.4 km
A charming 17th-century house perched over a beck, embodying Ambleside’s rich history and artistic heritage.
The Grasmere Gingerbread Shop
2.4 km
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Golden Rule
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Wordsworth Daffodil Garden
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White Platts Recreation Ground
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RockShop
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Faeryland Grasmere
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Ambleside Town Centre
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Heaton Cooper Studio Ltd
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National Trust - Allan Bank and Grasmere
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Essential places to dine
Dodds Restaurant
2.4 km
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The Priest Hole Restaurant
2.6 km
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The Jumble Room
2.6 km
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Lucy's on a plate
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The Old Stamp House Restaurant
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Lake Road Kitchen
2.6 km
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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
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Blue Smoke on the Bay
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Windermere Restaurant (The W)
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The Gaddum
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Elegant dining and refined afternoon tea in a historic Arts and Crafts setting overlooking Brockhole's gardens on Windermere.
New Dungeon Ghyll - Langdale
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Old Dungeon Ghyll Hotel Great Langdale
6.9 km
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Applegarth Villa & Restaurant
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Booths, Windermere
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Forget Me Not
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The Original Man Shop
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Pretty Things
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Herdy Bowness
10.0 km
Whimsical Lake District gifts celebrating the beloved Herdwick sheep with quality, character, and charm.
Tesco Express
10.0 km
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LAKELAND Leather
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Mountain Warehouse
10.0 km
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Lonsdale Galleries
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Love the Lakes Bowness
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CONQUER Trading Post
19.6 km
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Alternative
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Lakeland Distribution Centre
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Peter Rabbit & Friends Ltd
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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The Vault
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The Lily Bar
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Wainwrights' Inn
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Queens Head, Troutbeck
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Lake District Cocktail Co.
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The Windermere Speakeasy
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Live Music in The Lake District The Crafty Baa Windermere Every Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu
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The Crafty Baa Windermere
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The Smallest Pub in The Lake District The Pie and Pint
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Hole in t' Wall
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Lago
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The Albert
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The Easy Breeze
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The Fizzy Tarté
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
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Wheelhouse Nightclub
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Secret Carlisle
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Club Britannia
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Peek A Booze
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Unique
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
