Rydal Grot

In the meticulously landscaped grounds of Rydal Hall is a stone hut, thought to be Britain's earliest purpose-built viewing station. 

Rydal Grot was designed and built in a small ravine between 1668 and 1669 by Rydal Hall's then-owner Sir Daniel Fleming. The grot is a simple slate building with a large viewing window that frames the striking Rydal waterfall and pool. The interior consists of wonderful wood paneling and a wide ledge next to the window, allowing visitors to sit comfortably while admiring the breathtaking views of the surroundings.

Famed poet William Wordsworth resided at neighboring Rydal Mount, and visited the hut with his nephew shortly before his passing. He was particularly fond of the Grot, so much so that he described its view in one of his works, An Evening Walk. Many artists captured the fairytale scenery, including noted painter John Constable in 1806.

The Grot aside, there are plenty of other attractions at Rydal Hall for visitors to enjoy, notably the sculpture path comprised of stone and textile artworks, and the beautiful gardens designed by renowned landscape architect Thomas Mawson. Nearby Rydal Water offers lovely views and hiking, without the crowds of some of the Lake District's more famous bodies of water.

Despite its outward simplicity, Rydal Grot and its surroundings are a wondrous location, offering visitors the opportunity to whittle away a few hours in some of the finest countryside the British Isles have to offer.