This is one of the most beautiful, rewarding walks in the Lake District. We parked at the Stock Lane pay and display park (takes cards), though parking was available for cheaper down the road by Wordsworth Cottage and for free in a layby along the road leading to Ambleside, as we discovered later. The initial stretch was along the main road A591, before the footpath begins. Near the River Rothay footbridge, remember to take two detours – one towards Rydal Cave with terrific views over Rydal Water and another up the Louhrigg Terrace for the iconic views over Grasmere. We walked clockwise returning to the Grasmere village, and refuelled at the Sarah Nelson shop. A must do whilst in the Lake District.

I completed the walk in slightly over an hour, which was ideal for meeting my step goal. It's a bit downward, but if you pace yourself, it shouldn't be too tough for youngsters or elderly legs! The beautiful vistas and photo opportunities are well worth it.

The parts where you can access the lakeside are lovely to walk around. Pretty flat terrain with good quality paths. It's unfortunate that on one side of the lake the road runs right along the lake shore, so you have to walk along a busy road, and on the other side of the lake the shore is privately owned so the path redirects onto a minor road into the village.

There’s something magical about this lake. It’s not the largest in the Lake District but it is set amongst breathtaking countryside. The village itself does become extremely crowded so, in order to see the Lake and its surrounding countryside at its best, park at the White Moss Common car park on the left hand side of the road heading towards Rydal and Ambleside. Cross over the road with care due to speeding vehicles and once over the road and into the woods, turn left to walk to Rydal and right to walk to Grasmere. It’s a great walk through the woods in either direction and is particularly beautiful in spring and autumn, The more adventurous visitor can go up higher onto Loughrigg Terrace for more spectacular views over Grasmere. Silver Howe is also a good walk. For more views head up to Allen Bank( National Trust) from the village. Within the village are many cafes and restaurants. There are toilets but be warned, admission is 60p and is payable by card only. Well worth visiting this little gem of a lake.

I live in Western Australia now, but this is by far the most beautiful place I have ever swam. It's a half mile walk from White Moss Car Park, and very worth it. The lake is calm and flat, so great for kids, however, gets deep very quickly. The water is crystal clear, and even in shallow water, fish are present. I swam a fair way out, and could still see my feet in the deep. A totally breathtaking lake, and an unforgettable swim.