Glamping in the Lake District
You will not find a more stunning place to stay and explore within the UK. Set in the very heart of the Lake District National Park, there is good reason why this magnificent location inspired the poet William Wordsworth to commit some of his most world-renowned poetry to paper. With the best wild swim spots, waterfall walks, lakes, caves and dark skies.
These beautiful huts are nestled underneath the Fairfield horseshoe mountain range and Nab scar, so there is no need to drive anywhere for the finest mountain hikes. With Rydal Lake, a wild swimmers hot spot, and waterfalls and plunge pools on site, it really is hard to beat!
Set on their own exclusive site, The Herdwick Huts are not only in the heart of the lakes, they are a totally unique experience for the environmentally conscious visitor. So, if you are looking for a place to escape the madness of busy life, these gorgeous huts really are the perfect getaway.
Grasmere is on the doorstep, voted one of the top places to visit in the Lake District, with the famous '‘Coffin route’ walk offering a spectacular lake and mountain view stroll straight from your hut door. With low level to high level walks exploring the Lakes from Rydal caters for everyone. Ambleside and Grasmere are both walking distance for cafes, restaurants and cinemas and Rydal offers scenic off-road strolls to arrive by.
“Thank you for being so helpful with our very last minute booking. What a brilliant experience it has been! The huts are fantastic and the location could not be better. Great that you are dog friendly. Will be recommending.”
“We absolutely loved our stay our hut it was so cosy inside with the logburner going in the evening, with a lovely spot outside with our own bench to admire the mountain views. We had everything we needed for tea/coffee and basic meals and we loved the homliness of stripey bedding and a warm down duvet. Spotlessly clean and well designed, we spent every evening in it rather than going out. The rydal site the huts are on is lovely too there are woods and waterfalls on the grounds and red squirrels although we didn't see any. We would definitely stay again and have already recommended The Herdwick Huts to our friends and family.”
“July was our third time in Gerdy hut (they all have individual names), so you can see we love staying in Sarah's huts. Cosy, clean, quiet, relaxing and none of the mess of camping. Great location and Rydal Hall has super gardens and woodland. Swimming in the waterfalls is quite refreshing...”
“What a lovely and romantic getaway. very good price for what is available and so close to the beautiful Ambleside, which has everything you need! We loved the huts and didn’t want to leave. On the last day the sheep were right by the huts it was so cute ! Amenities and walk to Rydal hall was great! Would Defo come back, my friends now even want to book!”
“What an enjoyable stay we had in Gerdy Hut! The site is amazing and has got to be the quietest site in the Lake District in the summer. We had such a beautiful relaxing time in our cosy hut, thank you. We will be back to try Autumn and Winter next time.”
“The huts all are very well equipped and have all you need for your stay. We drove to Ambleside on our first evening for dinner and cinema trip and on another evening to Grasmere. Each day walked straight from the site without using the car at all. Recommend doing Fairfield Horseshoe - long day, 11 miles or so, but fabulous 360 degree views from the top and lovely to pop into the Rydal Hall tea rooms on return before collapsing back at Gerty Hut. Also walked round Rydal and Grasmere waters with a paddle in the lake as well and a final walk up to Loughrigg again with excellent panorama views. Highly recommend a visit and we will definitely be back.”
“xtremely efficient wood burning stove, the hut was toasty and very comfortable! Amazing views of Fairfield horseshoe, and perfectly situated underneath Nab’s Scar to start the 11+ mile ridge walk, a huge bonus for me as I was determined not to drive at all during my stay! ”
“Thankyou! Brilliant! We have fallen in love with “Gerdy”. What an amazing way to celebrate our 10th Wedding anniversary. You have got it so right. Everything is here to keep you cosy and warm. We have stayed in all sorts of places including yurts and barns ect... but your Huts are the best yet! Can’t wait to come again and bring the kids (maybe!)”
“Absolutely amazing spot! Really enjoyed staying in the hut. Definitely on the list to re visit. Loved every single minute of it. Thank you.”
“Fantastic few days, you have thought of everything required in the hut. Lovely touches. the location speaks for itself”
“Stayed in Nab for 4 night mid week break. Fantastic place for couples, hut has everything you could want. The toilets are a bit of a walk but facilities are good. The gardens are gorgeous, the paddock where the huts are is lovely too and has some nice places to see wildlife. Perfectly situated between Ambleside and Grassmere. Personally, Im not keen on crowds but this place is a quiet haven in a normally busy part of the lakes, which gives you great access to amazing walks at quiter times of the day. Dont pass on a chance to swim in Rydalwater! ”
“What a fabulous location. The Herdwick Huts were brilliantly situated. We were in Nab hut...amazing. Cosy, comfy and completely chilled. No tech or gadgets...just a chance to chill and recover from the hectic pace and chaos of Modern Life. Easy walks into Ambleside and Grasmere too so we avoided any driving plus all the facilities and local amenities of Rydal. We had a fantastic time. Thank you so much.”
“Wonderful relaxing, de-stressing break in a wee hut. This was just the most marvellous, relaxing, de-stressing break in the heart of the beautiful Lake District. The shepherd's huts are based in a fantastic location to the rear of Rydal Hall. Extremely clean and tidy with lots of thought into the location of items, and the position of the huts to one another. Rydal Hall and it's grounds are worth a wee visit as is the Badger Bar (at the Glen Rothay Hotel). There is a variety of breathtaking walks around Rydal, Grasmere and Ambleside, plus many opportunities to sample real ale, whisky and bar food. Whatever the weather you will fall in love with the Herdwick Huts. Well done, Sarah.”
“We had a lovely stay at the Hut ! Away from it all but walking distance to town if needed. The Hut has everything inside and stunning view. A quiet and relaxing place! There is also great walks in all directions starting not far from it.”
“Felt as if we left the world behind for a while.... wonderful. Make sure you visit the Badger Bar just down the road for a great meal and cold pint after climbing Loughrigg Fell and have a fab breakfast at the Apple Pie in Ambleside; just 30 minutes walk. Will definitely be back...”
“Had a wonderful weekend here. The hut was beautiful. Our whippet loved it too. Despite no electricity, the hut had everything you needed. Comfy bed. Toilet block possibly further than 3 mins away but not a hardship. Would like to go back one day.”
“Enchanting romantic get away. The huts are so thoughtful decorated & well equipped, the views are stunning. we loved the site that sara has chosen for the huts, you have the privacy of the herdwick hut field but are only a short walk from hot showers, beautiful gardens & the lovely Rydal hall tearoom, the cakes are amazing! The huts are comfortable & cosy, plenty of candles for the lanterns and the woodburning stove can also be used to cook on. We cant wait to return.”
“Tranquillity in the heart of Lake District. Very cosy and homely accommodation pretty much in the heart of Lake District. Hut looks as good in reality as on photographs, and so far is the best glamping experience and would be very hard to beat. It feels a little bit like a home away from home. It combines tranquillity, even though sheep could be loud at times, and accessibility to local attractions. Seems to be perfect for solo travellers, couples and families with small children.”
“Myself and my boyfriend came to stay at The Herdwick Huts in June for our 3 year anniversary. I was already incredibly excited after looking at the website and seeing the photos - but the real thing was even better! Absolutely loved the attention to detail, right down to having "Welcome Lorna" on a little slate heart hung with the keys when we arrived - just adorable.
Thank you so much for making this such a special weekend - we loved every minute we spent in the hut. I would 100% recommend going here!
P.S - the drive up the hill to the site isn't the easiest - I thought we might break our car!! Might be easier to park further down if you don't have a 4x4! :D”
“Thanks Sarah, fantastic Glamping! Great hut, amazing location. We will definately return and recommend you to friends and family. See you soon……we can’t wait!”
“The site itself is beautiful but there's also some great walks from site. It's an ideal spot for walking or using as a base to drive furthervafield.
We took our dog (who loved the hut) and everywhere nearby is dog friendly.
We weren't ready leave as there's so much to see and do.
Absolutely perfect! We'll definitely be back.”
“We had the most amazing week stay in the Nab Hut, made us feel so cosy and content we could easily of moved in full time. Definitely want to come back soon! Made a small video of our time spent in the hut and exploring the area.”
“Such an amazing stay! So cosy and such a great location. Very peaceful and relaxing. Will defo be back!”
“We had the most amazing week stay in the Nab Hut, made us feel so cosy and content we could easily of moved in full time. Definitely want to come back soon!”
“We stayed in a shepherds hut within the grounds of Rydal Hall underneath the Fairfield Horseshoe. Only 5 huts so very peaceful. No lighting on the site, huts lit by candle light with a wood burner and simple gas ring for cooking. There was a compostable toilet for emergencies which was absolutely fine... not half as unpleasant as i thought it would be and in fact much more pleasant than many toilet facilities on some campsites! The main toilet block, washing up facilities and showers were a short and pleasant walk through the adjacent woodland. The hut had a lovely comfy double bed and the views from the site were lovely. There were sheep wandering round the site and red squirrels. Our hut was dog friendly. Sarah the owner was lovely and has a great attitude towards her site. If you want a simple, rustic and very relaxing break then this could suit you. We will definitely go backvagain.”
“We have just returned from a midweek break in the gorgeous huts. They were a perfect break from busy lives. They are equipped to a perfect level - enough to feel as if you can be self sufficient but not so much that it's too much like home. So well thought out. The position is beautiful; a peaceful field above Rydal Hall, close & accessible to many walks and attractions. The site of Rydal Hall is open & inclusive you can explore at will, the sculpture wood is peaceful & well thought out and the formal gardens & the 'Grot' are beautiful.”
“I came to stay with my partner early March and had the perfect stay. The hut was clean, tidy and a respectful distance from other huts, allowing us our privacy. Situated in beautiful Rydal, it’s the perfect location to start various walks and trips around the local villages in the Lakes. Would definitely recommend and look forward to booking next trip. Utterly breathtaking!”
“Sarah,Thank you so much for everything you did helping my now fiance. We've had a beautiful stay and will certainly return. The huts are lovely and cosy warm and the beds are so comfy. Patrick has spoken so highly of you for going out of your way to make this such a treasured memory.”
The Location
All to explore from your doorstep...
On-Site Attractions
You can walk straight from the huts through a stunning woodland sculpture path to access historic Rydal Hall. Great for exploring, the Hall’s extensive 34 acre grounds has ornate gardens, a Grotte, and superb tearoom. Elsewhere on site there are paths which lead past cascading waterfalls and secret pools.
 Sculpture Woodland |
 Old School Room Tea Shop |
 Rydal Hall and Ornate Gardens |
 Grotto, waterfalls & rockpools |
 Woodland Walks from your Door |
 Rydal Hall and Grounds |
Nearby Attractions
The huts are positioned a short walk from Rydal Water and many classic valley and high level walks, including the Coffin Route to Grasmere and the famous Fairfield Horseshoe.
The small town of Ambleside is within walking distance, with amenities such as shops, restaurants and a five-screen cinema.
Our central location means great access by road, public transport and bicycle to explore most parts of the Lake District.
The Badger Bar - pub / restaurant offering full English Breakfast and badger watching location just a short walk away.
 The Fairfield Horseshoe Walk |
 The Coffin Route Walk |
 Badger Watching |
 Wordsworth House |
 The Badger Bar |
 Rydal Water |
The Facilities
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Hut Facilities
- All Kitchen / cooking utensils provided including:
- Cutlery
- Tin opener
- Bottle opener
- Knives
- Matches
- Stirring spoons
- Cheese grater
- Scissors
- Pots and pans
- Plates/ bowls
- Coffee pot
- Bin Liners
- Washing up liquid
- Scourer
- Wood burning stove and oven (with wood, newspaper and kindling)
- Fresh linen and duvets on the beds
- Solar powered lighting
- Solar powered, USB charging point
- Fabrics and cushions
- Cast iron gas hob stove
- Drop leaf oak table and chair
- Double bed with memory foam mattress (sleeps two adults)
- Single bunk with memory foam mattress (sleeps one child)
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On Site Facilities
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Availability & Booking
The Herdwick Huts Changeover Days are on a Monday or Friday
- 7 Night full week break (Starting on a Mon or Fri)
- 4 Night mid week break (Starting on a Monday)
- 3 Night weekend break (Starting on a Friday)
| Season | Full Week | Mon-Fri | Fri-Sat-Sun |
| Low | £560 | £320 | £320 |
| High | £610 | £360 | £360 |
NEW YEAR 2022/23 3 Night Weekend £385.00
CHRISTMAS 7 Night full week only £580.00
- Price not subject to VAT
- Price includes cooking gas and parking for your stay
- Price includes complimentary bucket of logs, kindling (extra firewood can be purchased at Rydal Hall)
Please be aware that we are operating with strict government cleaning protocols in place to ensure that you have the safest possible stay.
A big thank you for supporting small local businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
There is a large wood burning stove and complimentary recycled briquettes, kindling and firelighters to keep you toasty warm anytime of the year.
And for those of you that need a little help laying a fire
Scrunch up plenty of newspaper and lay eight to ten pieces of kindling (jenga style) over the top. Light, and when kindling is crackling lay a log on top – simple!
- At The Herdwick Huts we care about the environment and that's why all our cleaning products are environmentally friendly to both you and the land.
- Our huts have their very own solar panels for lighting and usb charging.
- Our briquettes are recycled hard wood and very efficient.
- There is really no need to buy plastic bottled water as there is a cannister in the huts that you can refill at the spring water tap. Water doesn't get any better than this, straight from the Fairfield mountain range.
- Rydal Hall has one of the largest hydro powered turbines, currently generating electricity for 400 local homes.
Rydal Hall is using traditional methods to restore a natural woodland on their 34 acre estate. The woods were previously a plantation to provide fuel and building materials for the 17th Century hall.
The first step is to open up the thick canopy to allow light to penetrate to the ground by removing the non-native trees, but in a dense wood, timber extraction is difficult. Turning away from vehicles and machinery, Rydal Hall engaged Dan Sumner, a local tree logger to use Cubb horses to drag the felled trees. Cubbs are similar to Shire horses but smaller. This ancient method will help support the red squirrel population and wildlife. Apart from being quieter and pollution free, the use of horses breaks up the ground allowing native grasses and plants to establish themselves, creating a woodland scrub layer and create small glades. Some of the wood will be used as fuel and the rest is being carefully stacked to provide wildlife habitats.
The project will be carried out over several years, by eco-foresters, the Rydal Hall estate team and volunteers. Local schools are being encouraged to use the Rydal woods as an educational resource. All of Rydal Hall’s woodland and gardens are open to the public and the estate is designated as a Special Conservation Area in the Lake District National Park.
Yes, The Herdwick Huts are open all year including Christmas and New Year with no chance of being cold with the large wood burning stove and with our new solar panels, the lighting is wonderful through those darker nights.
- A cool box is handy in the Summer
- A good torch for walking back to your Hut at night
- Wellies! just in case of rain
- Food & Drink – There is a large Booths supermarket outside Windermere Train Station (10min drive) or Ambleside has a Tesco, Coop and independent wholefood store called Granny Smiths (25mins scenic walk or 3min drive). The Badger Bar, pub / restaurant (5mins walk)
- Bath towel
- Toiletry bag
The nearest train station is Windermere where there are regular buses that stop directly outside the Rydal Hall entrance off the main road. Alternatively, there are usually taxis waiting outside the station.
The first evidence of a wheeled Shepherd’s hut is 1596.Whilst thinking that the Shepherd's hut is a relatively new invention, maybe late 18th or early 19th Century, we were amazed to find out that these old beasts have been around a lot longer than that. Thanks to the presence of a few very early publications, we have traced a reference to a wheeled Shepherds hut from the 16th Century during the reign of Queen Elizabeth I.
Leonard Mascal, reputed to have become Chief farrier to King James VI, produced a number of very early works regarding rural life. His titles covered such subjects as fishing, plants and one entitled ‘Government of Cattel’ published in 1596 was split into three sections. The third section of this work was devoted to discoursing the order of sheep, goats, hogs, and dogs, with true remedies to help the infirmities that befall any of them : also perfect instructions for taking of moales, and likewise for the monthly husbanding of grounds.
The small yet important description appears in this book “in some place the Shepheard hath his cabbin going upon a wheele for to remove here and there at his pleasure”. This is probably the very first mention of a shepherds hut in the form that we currently recognize. It is also the first glimpse that the Shepherds accommodation from as long ago as the late 1500’s was in line with his status as a very important member of the farming community. Those in more rugged terrain such as Scotland, Wales and morland areas of England had to deal with the elements it seems, a hut on wheels needs a track suitable to take it. Boggy ground or hilly areas rule out ease of access for a portable hut. In these cases a more permanent building, sometimes referred to as a ‘lookers hut’ was built to protect the shepherd from his sometimes bleak environment. A shepherds hut was a big investment to a farm or Estate, costing the equivalent of up to 6 months of the Shepherd’s salary. However it seems that ownership in most cases stayed with the Landowners rather than the Shepherd.
History reproduced with permission from www.shepherdhuts.co.uk
“The shepherd strays, a rolling hut his home” William Wordsworth
All the of the huts accept a well behaved dog except the hut called 'Tarn'. Please note that there is a £20.00 supplement to bring a dog and we do not allow dogs on the bedding or cushions.