Loughrigg Fell + Rydal Cave: 3 Mile Circular Route
Moderate
2 hours
3 miles (5km)
This Loughrigg Fell and Rydal Cave circular walk is great for families, can be completed in a couple of hours and is also one of the Wainwright Walks. Loughrigg Fell is located in the central part of the Lake District between the towns of Ambleside and Grasmere. Standing 335m above sea level it is a relatively small fell but don’t let that fool you — the views on a good day are still stunning.
This route could be the perfect introduction to hill walking for kids, there is only one particularly steep section which is well paved and relatively short. There is also the beautiful Rydal Cave to see — which is the result of slate quarrying. Fans of the TV show ‘The Witcher’ might recognise the cave from season 2.
White Moss car park is a large pay and display and is split into two sections. The north section has space for 60 cars and the south has space for 80 cars. Parking costs are £5 for two hours and then £2.20 for an additional hour (prices may vary from date of publication).
🌤️ Know Before You Go 🌤️
- White Moss car park Ambleside: LA22 9SE
- What3Words: ///unloading.revolts.wildfires
- Public Transport:
- Elevation Gain: 197m
- Terrain: Mainly good paths, some lose ground/gravel and some steep sections
- Public Toilets: Yes – At White Moss car park
- Family Friendly: Yes mainly considered a family friendly route. Not suitable for pushchairs due to steps and uneven terrain
- Dog Friendly: Yes but should be kept on a lead at all times
- Wainwrights (1)
- Scramble Grade: No scrambling
- Met Office Mountain Forecasts
- Mountain Weather Information Service (MWIS)
🥾 Essential Kit 🥾
- Good quality, well fitting walking boots/shoes
- 20-30L rucksack
- Gloves, hat, neck gaitor/snood
- Map, compass, and head torch (spare batteries)
- Emergency First Aid Kit (foil blanket, whistle, plasters)
- Additional layers of clothing
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- At least 2 litres of water
- Hiking poles (optional)
❄️ Additional Winter Kit ❄️
- Hiking poles with ice fittings
- Waterproof hat and gloves
- Crampons/Ice Axe
- Dry bags
- Extra food and water
- Sun protection
- Emergency shelter such as a survival or bivi bag
- A more comprehensive First Aid Kit
Loughrigg Fell circular route description
Stage 1 – Loughrigg Terrace
The walk starts out from White Moss Car Park and heads through some beautiful woodland between Grasmere and Rydal. Cross over the River Rothay using the footbridge, begin your ascent and head along Loughrigg Terrace. The views out over Grasmere are beautiful.
As you approach a wood take a sharp left before the wooden gate. This is the steepest section and leads up towards the summit. Although this section is steep and seems to go on a little longer than you anticipate it is made easier by stone steps. You are now ascending the NW ridge which will take you to the summit, where hopefully, you are greeted with stunning views out across the Lake District.
Stage 2 – Loughrigg Fell Summit to Rydal Cave
Leaving the summit head down to the left of the summit descending towards Rydal Water, parts of this descent are steep and the path uneven so be sure to take care.
As you continue your descent you will come across Rydal Cave. This is a great spot to spend a few minutes exploring the cave – crossing the stepping stones at the entrance to this spectacular natural formation.
Take a left from the cave and follow the path down a little further, you are soon back to the woodland where you started your hike. From here just retrace your steps back through the woodland to the car park.
Got the OS Map App? Follow the route by clicking the link below.
Where to eat and drink after hiking Loughrigg Fell
Depending on which direction you are heading off in, there are several options to call in for a quick pint following the day’s adventure. Less than a 10-minute drive from White Moss Car Park is The Royal Oak Pub in Ambleside. Part of the Greene King chain they offer a selection of wines, cocktails and beers, including cask ale and guest cask ales.
A pint of Birra Moretti will cost you around £6.40 whereas the guest cask ales start from around £5.55. As part of a chain they serve a range of food from 12:00pm – 9:00pm Monday – Friday and 10:30am – 9:00pm at weekends. Dog and family friendly this historic pub also has a beer garden.
A slightly further drive, but one that is absolutely worth it if you ask us is renowned gastropub The Drunken Duck Inn. Booking is essential. It’s a 20-minute drive from White Moss Car park, but one you will be glad you made. We visited back in 2021 following a walk and fell in love with the food as well as the atmosphere of the place – you can read our review here
⚠️ A Note of Caution – Loughrigg Fell & Rydal Cave
Loughrigg Fell might look like a gentle walk, but the paths can be steep, uneven, and easy to lose in mist. Take care with footing, especially in wet weather.
Rydal Cave is a brilliant spot to explore, but the stepping stones at the entrance can be slippery, and the rocks inside are uneven. Keep an eye on kids (and dogs!) and bring a torch if you want to look around safely.
Both are lovely adventures, but don’t let the friendly appearance fool you — a little care goes a long way.
Pics from the peaks – more of Loughrigg Fell and Rydal Cave
