Do you remember that day we took our John to school and left him by the gate?
And then walked through the wood and oer the fell to Rydal lake?
How we marvelled at the colour of the scene, its changing hue
Whilst all the world seemed peaceful and contented like we two

Then up the step and and winding path along the rough fell track
Following the grey stone wall we went, that straddles its broad back,
And past the little cottage neath its brow so high and wide
Through the creaking gate to the waters edge, stretched out on either side

Shall we ever find a quieter spot or see a lovelier scene
Could we be any happier than on that day we'd been
To me t'would seem impossible a quieter peace to feel
Than gazing round the little lake of Rydal did reveal

So my dear love, when we look back at the old year's gloomy past
Perhaps we may feel glad, that it's almost gone at last
Lets try not too ungrateful be to this old fading year
And remember Rydal Water and our joy at being there.