Rydal is a tiny hamlet between Grasmere and Ambleside in the beautiful Rothay Valley, and was home to William Wordsworth for 37 years. Within the valley lies Rydal Water which, at less than a mile long, might be best considered as a tarn rather than a lake. There are numerous walks on the hills and fells that surround Rydal Water, as well as a walk around the tarn itself which takes in Dove Cottage, Rydal Mount and Rydal Cave. Steps at the western end of the lake lead to Wordsworth’s Seat, considered to be the poet’s favourite viewpoint.