Lakeland Voices are singing their folk carols in Rydal Caves to wish you all a very merry and melodious Christmas, and a happy and harmonious new year. You can join in if you know the carols and their harmonies – or just listen. Then down to the Badger Bar at Rydal for more cracking singing round the fire and a slap up Christmas Eve lunch.

Please bring traditional cave food and hot drinks to share.

Rydal caves can only be approached by an uphill walk for 30 minutes from the road where you can park – a bus also runs between Ambleside and Grasmere. Make your own way to the caves (at your own risk) and we’ll see you there. Wear good walking boots, warm clothes, waterproofs, emergency supplies, etc.

Rydal is a hamlet between Grasmere and Ambleside in the centre of the Lake District. Lakeland Voices are a community choir led by David Burbidge who have been singing folk carols in England, Scotland and Slovenia for over 30 years. They have been singing in the Badger Bar for several decades in different seasons. We used to sing at night but as old age caught up with us, we found it was easier to get to the caves in daylight.

Songs include Boars Head Carol, Pentonville, Old Foster, Diadem, Shepherds Arise, Neapolitan  Bagpipers carols, Carol of the Bells, Hail Smiling Morn, Silent Night in several languages…and many others. Lakeland Voice arrange workshops to teach the carols which you can see on our website. Booklets of the words can be sent in advance via email or are available online.

There is no charge – but if you enjoy yourselves, please make an online donation to a charity of your choice. If you have a bad time, please make a donation to the Samaritans.