Nestling at the foot of some spectacular fells and with its own lake, this village has many shops, pubs and cafes. Popular walks include following Red Bank Road and then the footpath along the west shore of the lake towards Rydal Water. With no motor boats, this quieter lake is great for swimming and rowing. In the summer you can hire rowing boats on the lake. You can also visit Wordsworth's grave in the churchyard and buy the legendary Grasmere Gingerbread.
This small lake often has beautiful reflections to the west of Loughrigg fell. Wordsworth lived in Rydal Mount, open to the public. Dora’s Field, named after Wordsworth's daughter, is next to the church and is covered in daffodils in springtime. On the western side of the lake is a footpath up to Loughrigg Terrace and its huge cave, formed by quarrying. Another of the smaller, quiet lakes that's increasingly popular for wild swimming.
Top tips on where to swim in the Lake District, how to keep safe and how to deal with cold water when wild swimming
Easy walking routes near Grasmere - Miles Without Stiles routes:
Bus service 599 runs between Bowness, Windermere, Rydal and Grasmere, in summer it runs up to every 20 minutes with an open top service. Service 555 runs from Lancaster and Kendal to Keswick via Grasmere and Rydal. You can now cycle or walk on the Grasmere Trail which links Ambleside and Grasmere via the shores of Rydal Water and Grasmere. For more information and links to timetables see:
