Trail Running Planet · Lake District · Grasmere and Rydal
Grasmere, Rydal Caves and the Coffin Route
You run into the huge man made chamber of Rydal Cave and back along the centuries old Coffin Route, all on gentle paths between two lakes.
Distance
14 km
Ascent
192 m
Descent
191 m
Max elevation
132 m
Route type
Loop
Est. time
1h 40m – 2h 15m
Grade
Hard
Navigation
straightforward
Parking
LA22 9SJ
Dogs
Welcome
Best seasons
spring, summer, autumn, winter
About this route
A 14 km low loop linking Grasmere, the cavernous Rydal Cave and Ambleside, returning on the old Coffin Route. Only 192 m of climbing through classic Wordsworth country.
Hazards & notes
The floor and approach to Rydal Cave are wet, rocky and slippery, and the cave interior is dark underfoot. Lakeside paths flood after heavy rain and tree roots are slick when wet.
Emergency
Call 999 or 112 → ask for Police → request Mountain Rescue. Register Emergency SMS: text "register" to 999.
Full route, GPX download & live conditions:
https://trailrunningplanet.com/routes/england/lake-district/grasmere-and-rydal/grasmere-rydal-caves-coffin-route
trailrunningplanet.com