Loughrigg Tarn, Fieldfoot Wood and Rydal Water Loop

Starting from the small car park near Loughrigg Tarn, just outside Skelwith Bridge in Westmorland and Furness, this 10 km (about 6.2 miles) loop offers a classic Lake District experience with a moderate elevation gain of around 400 metres (1,312 feet). The trailhead is easily accessible by car, with parking available at Loughrigg Tarn or Skelwith Bridge. For those using public transport, regular buses from Ambleside and Windermere stop at Skelwith Bridge, a short walk from the start.

Loughrigg Tarn and Fieldfoot Wood

The route begins with gentle paths skirting the tranquil waters of Loughrigg Tarn, a small glacial lake framed by lush woodland and open meadows. Early on, the trail passes through Fieldfoot Wood, where ancient oaks and birches provide habitat for red squirrels and a variety of woodland birds. The area is particularly beautiful in spring, when bluebells carpet the forest floor. The path here is well-defined but can be muddy after rain, so waterproof boots are recommended.

Climbing Loughrigg Fell

After leaving the tarn, the trail ascends the lower slopes of Loughrigg Fell. This section is the most strenuous, with a steady climb of about 200 metres (656 feet) over 2 km (1.2 miles). The ascent rewards hikers with panoramic views over the Langdale Pikes and the Coniston Fells. The summit area is open and rocky, with scattered heather and bracken. On clear days, you can see as far as Windermere to the south and Grasmere to the north.

Descent to Rydal Water

The descent leads towards Rydal Water, passing through a patchwork of sheep pastures and dry stone walls. Look out for Herdwick sheep, a hardy local breed unique to the Lake District. The path skirts the southern shore of Rydal Water, where you’ll find reed beds and the occasional glimpse of otters or kingfishers. At the western end of the lake, the route passes close to Rydal Cave, a large man-made cavern created by slate quarrying in the 19th century. The cave is accessible via a short detour and is a popular spot for photos.

Historical and Cultural Highlights

This area is steeped in literary history. William Wordsworth lived at nearby Rydal Mount, and the landscapes around Rydal Water and Loughrigg Tarn inspired much of his poetry. The trail also passes near the old coffin route, a historic path used to carry the dead from Ambleside to Grasmere for burial before local churches had their own graveyards.

Navigation and Safety

The loop is well-signposted, but the network of intersecting paths can be confusing in mist or poor weather. Carry a detailed map and use HiiKER for real-time navigation and trail updates. Mobile signal is generally good, but can be patchy in wooded or low-lying areas. Weather in the Lake District can change rapidly, so pack layers and waterproofs even in summer.

Wildlife and Nature

Throughout the walk, expect to see a variety of birdlife, including buzzards, woodpeckers, and, in summer, swallows and martins swooping over the water. The woodlands and tarns are also home to roe deer and, if you’re lucky, the elusive red squirrel. In autumn, the changing colours of the trees and bracken make this route especially scenic.

The loop returns to the starting point near Loughrigg Tarn, completing a varied and rewarding circuit through some of the Lake District’s most picturesque landscapes.