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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.

Moss and seed heads glowing in low evening light

Sacred Ground: A Meditation on God and the Land

Take a peaceful moment to reconnect with God’s presence in this guided meditation.
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Juniper branch with dark berries in snow

The Good News of Being With – A Christmas Reflection

As the days shorten here at Rydal, and the fells draw a little closer in the early winter light, I’ve been thinking again about a truth that sits right at the heart of Christmas—and at the heart of the gospel: the simple, profound gift of being with. Not fixing, not rushing, not having all the answers. Just being present.
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Fell runner on a rocky Lakeland trail

Prayer and the Art of Running Downhill

There are mornings here at Rydal when the mist hangs low over Nab Scar, and the air carries that quiet expectancy before the sun has quite found its courage. I lace my shoes and set out toward the fells — not to conquer them, but to be with them. To move among them as one might move through a psalm: with reverence, with listening, with breath.
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A hand cradling a seedling in soil

Remembering: The Soil of Grace

To remember is to return — to walk again over ground already trodden, but this time with eyes open. Wendell Berry reminds us that “the past is our definition,” not to trap us, but to root us. In remembering, we find ourselves not as scattered moments but as part of a living landscape — one shaped by love, labour, and grace.
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Rydal Hall Chapel Close Up Image Of The Holy Bible

Rydal Hall Welcomes First Intern as Part of New Christian Leadership Programme

Rydal Hall, the retreat and conference centre for the Diocese of Carlisle, has launched a new internship programme designed to nurture future Christian leaders.
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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