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The Chaplain's Blog

Lawrence Basham

A Lakeland Vicar

Welcome to the Chaplain’s blog. Here, Rev Lawrence Basham shares reflections, prayers and news from life at Rydal Hall. As Chaplain, he offers spiritual guidance, pastoral care, and a welcoming presence to all who visit.

Before joining Rydal Hall, Lawrence served as a parish priest in Keswick (curacy) and later in the South Lakes. Earlier, he was a youth minister in Yorkshire. Deeply rooted in his love for the outdoors, he finds spiritual renewal in the mountains. In fact, he is an enthusiastic fell runner, often encountering God’s presence in the beauty and challenge of the fells.

Today, Lawrence leads regular worship, reflection, and conversation in our chapel. He also supports individuals and groups in their spiritual journeys amidst the peace and wonder of the Lake District.

A woman wraps a sleeping lamb in her shawl in a misty field, an image of shelter in the sheepfold

Finding Shelter In The Sheepfold

Rydal Hall is a little like a sheepfold. As the days grow shorter and mist gathers on the fells, there is space here to find shelter and rest, and simply to let God hold us.
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Father and son on the winners’ podium at the Grasmere Sports fell race

Grasmere Sports and the Gift of Hospitality

Rydal is a place of welcome, but also a place of peace. Among the gardens, water and fells, there is space to step away from the pressure to achieve and simply be
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A sheep resting in long grass

Like Sheep Without a Shepherd

In Matthew's Gospel, Jesus looks at the crowds with compassion because they are "like sheep without a shepherd."
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couple sitting in a tent

Pitching Our Tent in the Land of Hope

The heart of the gospel is that God is with us. With us when the clouds gather. With us when life is not always sunny; The good news it is that we are never alone
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Sunlight through a misty forest with a moss-covered floor

March stands on a threshold

March stands on a threshold, poised between what has been and what is coming.
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Three walkers with rucksacks on a fell path at sunset

Solvitur Ambulando – It is solved by walking

The phrase solvitur ambulando comes from the early world of philosophy. There it meant that you could not settle some arguments in theory, only test them in practice — by getting up and moving.
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Accessibility Information

Our property is a Grade II listed building, and due to its historic nature, some areas may present accessibility challenges. If you have mobility difficulties or any specific accessibility requirements and are considering staying with us, we kindly ask that you contact us by telephone before booking. We will be happy to discuss your needs and help you determine whether our accommodation is suitable for your stay.

You can also read our full accessibility statement.

Call 01539 432050