This is one of our favorite walks; the kids love climbing over the large stepping stones and exploring the cave. The walk is just a mile and fairly easy, allowing us to take our time.
There are several car parks along the route, but they can fill up quickly, so it’s best to arrive early. We start this route from the White Moss car park.
Begin down the main path, crossing the river at the bridge. Take the left fork (the right fork leads along the river’s edge to Grasmere) and walk through White Moss Woods.
Once you reach the end of the woods, turn right, then follow straight to take the higher path to the caves, which will appear on your right after about half a mile.
Top tip: wear wellies or old shoes! The kids are likely to get their shoes wet (ours always do), so it’s a good idea to wear an old pair or shoes that you don’t mind getting wet. This way, they can paddle in the water and climb across the large stepping stones.
The Practical Stuff
- Location: Rydal Water, near Ambleside, Central Lake District.
- Parking: Our route starts from White Moss car park, but there is plenty of parking available along the A591.
- Facilities: There are no public toilets here, but it is a short drive to Ambleside.
- Walk Details: The full walk is approximately 2 miles.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Pram-friendly?: No, the rocky path upto the cave is not pram friendly, but there is a path along the lakeside that is suitable.