On this Rydal Waterfall Walk, follow a pretty woodland trail past beautiful cascades and emerald pools to the stunning Buckstones Jump
Rydal Waterfall Walk Parking: Rydal Hall car park, LA22 9LX
What 3 Words for Lumb Hole Falls: ///river.dams.printers
Distance: Approx. 3.5 miles
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Time: Approx. 1-2 hours (return walk)
Also known as Buckstones Jum, Buckstones Jump is a magical hidden spot tucked above pretty woodlands and surrounded by the rugged peaks of Heron Pike, Rydal Fell, Great Rigg and Fairfield. This Rydal Waterfall walk to Buckstones Jump takes you on an exciting adventure where you can swim in wild emerald pools and reconnect with nature.
This particular route is one of the most idyllic waterfall walks in the Lake District, evolving from the gentle, untamed beauty of Rydal to the rugged, awe-inspiring solitude of the fells. Hike through ancient woodlands, discover hidden cascades and ascend to a vantage point that rewards your efforts with expansive, panoramic views.
- Start This Rydal walk from Rydal Hall and wander through the ‘Quiet Garden’ to discover Rydal Hall waterfall and grot. Rydal Grot was built in 1668 as a viewing spot to watch the cascading waterfall through the window.
2. Head back above the grot, across the bridge and through the gate, before heading through the campsite and onto the track that runs parallel to Rydal Beck.
3. Follow the path down to a wooden bridge to your left and follow the trail that runs along the right side of the river. Stay on this track to discover several of the incredible cascades on this Rydal waterfall walk.
4. Continue through the sheltered woodland, which is just magical in the autumn months when the leaves turn brilliant shades of red, gold and yellow.
5. The path meanders and undulates through the trees, steering you to the first emerald pool, where you’ll see some wooden steps. Although you might be tempted to take a dip here, I’d recommend you go further up the path to even more breathtaking waterfalls and pools.
6. 200 metres along, you reach High Falls, a series of impressive cascades that tumble into a fabulous pool, perfect for wild swimming. Be careful getting down into the water as the rocks can be slippery after rainfall.
7. A bit further up from High Falls you come to the piece de resistance – a single cascade that thunders into a large emerald pool, hugged by huge, ancient rocks. If you visit during quieter times, there’s a good chance you’ll have this enchanting sanctuary all to yourself. It’s a great spot for a picnic and a refreshing dip, however, it is the most difficult of the pools to access.
8. From here climb up towards the gravel track and turn left and keep going until to reach a stone bridge.
9. Cross over the bridge, continue along the path and take a right at the gate where you’ll soon pass a stone shelter.
10. Leaving the gentle embrace of the woodlands, the path gradually ascends, transitioning to more open fellside terrain.
11. After approximately 800 metres, climb over the stile and see the landscape open up, revealing views of the surrounding fells. Straight ahead is Buckstones Jump.
Reaching Buckstones Jump
12. After your rewarding walk, you’ll reach Buckstones Jump – a series of cascades and pools that tumble down the fellside. This wonderful feature, carved by nature, is embraced by dramatic fell scenery and boasts far-reaching views over Windermere on a clear day.
13. Return along the same route to conclude this Rydal waterfall walk.
