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Thomas Mawson Gardens

Thomas Mawson Gardens

At Rydal Hall

Rydal Hall sits in the heart of the Lake District UNESCO World Heritage Site. Since the 1600s, the estate has grown to include formal gardens, woodlands and iconic landmarks to explore. Renowned landscape architect Thomas Mawson designed the formal gardens, which are a fine example of Arts and Crafts design in a wonderful setting.

Sir Daniel Fleming built the Grot, or grotto, in 1668 to frame the spectacular Rydal Falls. In fact, it is one of Britain’s earliest examples of a viewing station. William Wordsworth was particularly fond of the Grot. He wrote about it in his early poem ‘An Evening Walk’ and visited with his nephew shortly before his death.

The Quiet Garden is a secluded area of woodland, with ponds and paths leading down to Rydal Beck. It is a place for peace and reflection. However, please note that access to the Formal and Quiet Gardens is limited because of the number of steps.

Opening Hours

The gardens and estate are open daily throughout the year. 

Entry Fee

Entry is free. However, we greatly appreciate donations towards garden maintenance and development.

Parking

Day parking is available, although parking at the hall is limited. If you are not staying with us, please pay for parking at reception. Alternatively, the nearest public car park is at Pelter Bridge.

Dogs

Dogs are welcome, but please keep them on a lead because of the animals on the estate. Thank you for helping us keep everyone safe.

Treasures To Be Found

  • Red Squirrel Conservation Project
  • Rydal Hall estate is part of the Red Squirrel Conservation Project and is home to a diverse range of plants and wildlife. One relic of the Rydal Hall estate - the sweet chestnut tree - is thought to have been part of the original plantings on the estate, dating back over 400 or 500 years depending on who you ask!
  • Hydro Electric Power
  • Rydal Hall has been generating its own hydro-electric power for over 100 years. The £2m project saw the turbine upgraded, enabling a display of part of the original turbine to be created, which illustrates our commitment to green energy long before it became fashionable.
  • Sculptures & Art Instalations
  • There is a long history of art and artists being inspired by Rydal Hall and the surrounding valley. We have a range of sculptures and art installations throughout the grounds which can be explored by wandering around or by following one of our sculpture paths, all of which mysteriously lead back to the Cafe!
Rydal Hall Gardens

We're Featured In...

We are very proud that the Lakeland Horticultural magazine and the Great British Gardens website have both featured our stunning gardens.

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Great British Gardens
Lakeland Horticultural Magazine
Natural Beauty In The Lake District

Over 30 Acres Of Garden & Woodland

Rydal Hall is set in over thirty acres of garden, woodland and natural beauty in the Lake District. Around the grounds, you’ll also find sculptures and other points of interest, which make it fascinating to explore!

Rydal Hall works to enhance and protect its beautiful environment, and it has always welcomed creative partnerships. Our setting has a long history of inspiring creative people, and we continue to value that connection.

Rydal Hall And The Arts

As well as an annual residential arts programme which ranges from icon painting to photography we enjoy acting as hosts for a number of self-organised groups from orchestras and singing schools to spinners, weavers and dyers. Do contact our office if you are interested in any of the above. The Cafe is the venue for a variety of exhibitions and artists associated with those are often to be found on site demonstrating their skills. Sculptures in different materials can be found throughout the estate and we invite you to explore, enjoy and respect them.

Woodland Walk

The woodland at Rydal Hall is a peaceful mix of ancient trees, moss-covered rocks, and winding paths that follow the natural contours of the landscape. Waterfalls and small streams weave through the woods, adding a gentle soundtrack as you walk. It’s a place where wildlife thrives and visitors can enjoy both quiet reflection and scenic exploration.

Our Environment

Rydal Beck threads through woodland in a cascade of waterfalls and has been used as a source of natural energy, hydropower, by the Rydal Estate for nearly 100 years. (You are welcome to walk up the waterfalls and through the adjoining woods on a circular route but please be advised paths can be slippery and steep so suitable footwear and care are advised.) We take our environment responsibility seriously and encourage our visitors to join with us in our efforts to reduce our impact on this stunning part of the UK.

Wild Pond Project

Originally inspired by a broken tree, this special area behind the Cafe has been created over two years by one of our volunteers for one reason: to atttract a variety of wildlife to Rydal. The three ponds are interlinked letting water directed from the fells above to flow from one to the next via an aqueduct. Water is vital for many insects and mammals to thive in our woodland. The lower wetland is a bog designed to retain moisture which supports water-loving plants such as bulrushes and flag iris.

Flowers

In spring, vibrant blooms spill over borders and pathways, while summer brings fuller, richer colours that contrast beautifully with the surrounding woodland and stone architecture. Many of the flowerbeds are thoughtfully arranged, giving the gardens a peaceful, sculpted feel without losing their natural charm. Their scent and colour add an uplifting energy to the grounds, making every walk feel a little more magical.

Wild Garlic In The Grounds

The wild garlic season starts in late winter and peaks towards the end of Spring, making the month of May the perfect time to visit Rydal for wild garlic lovers. The smell is very subtle and not overpowering. Just note that the woodland you are walking in is ancient when wild garlic grows. To find it, if you are driving, as you go through the big gate, turn right and park at the bottom of the hill. If you are on foot, from the bottom of the road, walk up the hill until you see the metal gate on your right; go through it, and you will find yourself in a stunning white and green field.
Sculpture Designer

Dianne Standen

“My work is largely created from reused materials and wool, which weathers with the seasons. This means it is constantly changing and evolving with many pieces providing habitats for insect and fungal life. Most importantly the textiles are designed to blend with the natural environment and encourage exploration of the stunning natural forms, vegetation and mosses throughout the estate.”
Staying At Rydal

Looking To Stay Somewhere Extraordinary?

With Ensuite bedrooms, cottages, a campsite and cafe set within 30 acres of the stunning Lake District, Rydal Hall is a truly unique place to spend time.

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The Cafe At Rydal

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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