Rydal Water in the English Lake District is always a joy no matter the activity you came for. I have walked around the edge of this lake so many times but had yet to actually get into the water and have a swim. This was the time to do it.
For those that want to try and experience wild swimming as a beginner then Rydal Water is perfect for it. The backdrop is amazing too for sure. Let’s take a look at this magical swimming spot and why you should have it on your to do list.
Location
Rydal Water is wonderfully situated by the A591 between the villages of Grasmere and Rydal itself. Real Wordsworth country. You will have seen the often reflection filled water on a drive from Windermere up to Keswick.
The easiest place to park is White Moss Car Park at postcode LA22 9SE.
From here you can take the half a mile or so walk through the woods and along the far side of the lake to find your favourite spot to enter the water.
Great For Beginners and Experts Alike
There are many reasons that Rydal Water is great for wild swimming beginners. The lake is actually very shallow in the main with even its deepest section being just 17m (55 ft).
The middle section where you have the 2 main islands in the middle of lake is actually very shallow and you can stand up for a lot of it or to feel safer.
With Rydal Water being shallow and at a lower height than a lot of the other lakes and tarns, the water temperature is that little bit warmer than other places too. It is one of the first lakes to start warming up in the year.
The lake of Rydal Water is very popular for walkers and families. Throughout the day you get people passing by along the shoreline. With it not being so remote you can feel good in the knowledge that people are around.
The Swim
We normally head to the far shore in line with the islands. The stoney beach areas here are good for gradually getting into the water or for those that like to just get right in.
Some of the grassy areas before that are often covered in goose poo where the birds often congregate.
To get a good swim in you can go out a bit and get to a nice depth for swimming or you may want to go for it like some and swim to the other side or around Heron Island.
Plus the water is not the only thing inspiring here. You have the backdrop of glorious fells all around you. Loughrigg Fell directly behind you to the south. Nab Scar, Heron Fell and Rydal Fell across the water to the north and up the valley north west you have the wonderful Helm Crag.
We always keep our wild swimming kit in the car for if passing this place we can get out and enjoy it both on foot and in the water.
What’s more the dogs absolutely love it too.
Conclusion
Rydal Water, one of the most accessible as well as one of the most beautiful lakes in the Lake District is a perfect place to wild swim. Be you starting out for the first time or experienced and want to swim in wonder.
Get out, enjoy and be invigorated.
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