Perevor Favourites | The Coffin Route Ambleside to Grasmere
We absolutely adore the Lake District, Ambleside is one of our favourite villages & this is a walk we have done time & time again! The Coffin Route from Ambleside to Grasmere is a great family path, well maintained, easy to follow and with a facinating history.
The Ambleside to Grasmere Coffin Trail is an ancient, roughly 6 km (3.7 mile) high-level path that connects the two villages via Rydal and Grasmere Lakes. This route, historically used to carry coffins to St. Oswald's Church in Grasmere, passes Rydal Hall and the homes of William Wordsworth, and offers stable paths with beautiful views, taking about 2-3 hours to complete one way.
Historical Significance:
The route was historically used to transport coffins to Grasmere's St. Oswald's Church for burial, which is why it's called the "Coffin Route".
Scenic Views:
The path offers stunning views of Rydal Water and Grasmere Lake, with several historic coffin rest points still along the route.
William Wordsworth: Walkers will pass Rydal Mount, Wordsworth's final home, and Dove Cottage, his earlier residence.
Rydal Hall: A possible stop is Rydal Hall, where you can explore the gardens and a feature called "The Grot".
The trail features stable paths for the most part but can have some tree roots in sections, especially near the top of the route.
Route & Directions
Start: Begin near the Bridge House in Ambleside.
Scandale Beck: Follow the path towards Grasmere, crossing Scandale Beck.
Rydal Hall: The path descends to join the grounds of Rydal Hall, where you can see Rydal Falls and The Grot.
Rydal Mount: Continue through the grounds and pass Rydal Mount.
Nab Scar Terrace: The trail then follows a high-level path along Nab Scar terrace, with views over the lakes.
Dove Cottage: Descend towards Grasmere, passing Dove Cottage.
End: The route concludes at St. Oswald's Church in Grasmere.
Then it is absolutely the rules to get Grasmere Gingerbread! This world famous treat is made in the oldest style and is dark and slightly sticky compared to the orange gingerbread we know today.
Duration: The walk takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours one-way.
Return Journey: You can take the Stagecoach bus 599 service from Grasmere back to Ambleside. (check current bus times and numbers)
Alternative: You can also walk back via Loughrigg or consider taking a bus to Grasmere and walking the route in reverse.
Where to stay in the Lake District:
Our absolute favourite campsite in the Lakes is Sykeside, if its a bit chilly for camping, the YHA is ambleside is very cosy spot to stay for a great value weekend.
All Trails Route Map: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/england/cumbria/grasmere-to-ambleside-coffin-route
