I LOVE winter strolls in the Lake District when there are no leaves on the trees and the car parks are almost deserted. Towards the end of their lives William Wordsworth and his sister Dorothy dwelt at Rydal Mount House, which is now open to the public.

Inside is an oar from the 1826 Oxford versus Cambridge Boat Race. This was the first ever race and in the crew was William Wordsworth's nephew.

Nearby is Dorah's Field, where Dorothy wrote an essay about daffodils. William arranged this in rhyme to produce one of the most famous poems in the world.

On a cold morning I set off along the marked footpath with charming wooden bridges spanning crystal clear streams. These lead into a larger stream over which there are a well-preserved set of stepping stones. On the stones I watched a dipper and a pair of grey wagtails. This proves that the water quality is high.

There is also a well-marked circular footpath around Rydal Water which is reed-fringed and one of my favourite strolls. Among the reeds I found a coot sitting on eggs. This is very early indeed.

John Heap, of Colne, told me of a mistle thrush feeding young during the frosty weather in mid-February so birds can prove to be very tough. I also watched a pigeon feeding its young on a ledge overlooking Morrison's car park in Blackburn on February 8!

My Rydal roundabout had one or two more pleasant shocks in store for me. High over the hills towards Thirlmere I watched a golden eagle soaring in the air. This gave me great pleasure as this is the only place in England where this species can be seen.

Because Rydal Water is sandwiched between Windermere and Grasmere there is no shortage of walks. You should, however, get your strolls in before the tourist season gets into full swing.

During busy times I always try to walk locally.

Getting there: Follow the M6 and turn off at the junction signed to the Lakes. Follow the A591 towards Kendal and through Windermere. Pass through Ambleside and continue along the A591 to Rydal. There is a well-signed car park on the left. This is White Moss.