14/07/2025
The Fairfield Horseshoe is a classic circular walk in the Lake District, known for its stunning views and challenging terrain. It involves traversing a horseshoe-shaped ridge, typically including eight Wainwright peaks. The route is around 11.5/12 miles (16-18 km) long with significant elevation gain, taking most walkers 5-7 hours.
• Circular Route:
The walk starts and finishes at the same point in Ambleside, Rydal Road Car Park, 1-3 Rydal Road, Ambleside LA22 9AN creating a loop.
• Wainwrights:
The route typically takes in eight Wainwright summits: Low Pike, High Pike, Dove Crag, Hart Crag, Fairfield (Highest Point), Great Rigg, Heron Pike and Nab Scar.
• Steep Sections:
The walk includes steep ascents and descents, the main ascent is up to Fairfield and then it is mainly descending from this point, with a few sharp climbs to each summit to the remaining peaks.
• High-Level Walking:
Once on the main ridge, there is a good amount of high-level walking with minimal up and down.
• Navigation:
While the route is generally straightforward, navigation can be tricky in mist, especially on the summit area of Fairfield.
• Challenging:
It is considered a strenuous walk/hike, and good fitness and appropriate gear are essential. This is a potential 7 hour + hike, but can be completed in 5 hours.
Tips for planning your walk: I will give you information so you are well prepared!
• Check the weather forecast: The weather can change within seconds especially on the peaks, where it is always at least 4/5 degrees lower!
• Wear appropriate clothing and footwear: Sturdy walking boots with good ankle support are a must!
• Bring essentials: Food and water as you are not only out for the day you are exercising as well. Waterproof clothing are essential. Again you will be advised and we will carry all the emergency first aid.
• Boggy sections: There are very boggy sections on the accent of the route, but you will be guided around these where required.
Duration: Around 5-7 hours Distance: 19.6km / 11.5 miles Total Ascent: 1,185m / 3888ft Wainwrights: Low Pike (508m), High Pike (656m), Dove Crag (792m), Hart Crag (822m), Fairfield (873m), Great Rigg (766m), Heron Pike (766m) & Nab Scar (612m) Meeting Point: Rydal Road Car Park (1-3 Rydal Road, Ambleside LA22 9AN)
Fairfield Horseshoe is one of the most impressive Lake District fell walks, and for lovers of high level circuits, this is a sure fire ‘classic’. The Fairfield Horseshoe is a stunning sight that towers high above Ambleside, leaving the shoppers and café goers looking up in awe. The Fairfield Horseshoe is host to eight Wainwright summits. The walk along the ridge is challenging but thoroughly rewarding; with stunning views of tarns, streams and roaming fells all day long. “No group of fells in the Lake District exhibit a more striking contrast in appearance when surveyed from opposite sides than this lofty Fairfield group” “On the north side the Fairfield Range is magnificent: here are dark precipices, long fans of scree, abrupt crags, desolate combes and deep valleys: a tangle of rough country, small in extent but full of interest, and well worth exploration.” - Alfred Wainwright
WHAT TO BRING - Walking boots (waterproof recommended) - Clothing suitable for walking (no jeans) - Rucksack (waterproof liner recommended) - Waterproof jacket and trousers - Warm layer, hat and gloves - Sun hat, sun glasses and sun cream - Water bottle (minimum 1 litre) - Packed lunch - Head torch (charged) - Any personal medication including Epipens This list is mandatory year round. If you are missing any items please get in touch. Arriving to a walk without these items may result in you being turned away.
THIS ACTIVITY REQUIRES A MINIMUM OF 6 PARTICIPANTS TO RUN. Participants must be 12 years or older with a good level of fitness.
When - Every Sunday & every 4 weeks on a Wednesday from 1st March – 31st October.
Where – Start/Finish - Rydal Road Car Park (1-3 Rydal Road, Ambleside LA22 9AN)
What Time – 9am
Cancelled only if the hike is cancelled due to extreme or unsafe weather.
Price - £30 per person
Event Requirements – we require a total of at least 6 booked for the event to go ahead.
Refunds will be issued if a lack of uptake
Schools/College/Universities/Clubs/Work Events are welcome as group bookings.
Sunday Dates - Sunday 1st March – 31st October. Next Date Sunday 20th July.
Remaining Wednesday Dates 2025 Season.
27th August
24th September
23rd October
Lookout for more Horseshoes being added for the 2026 season, as we look to add 2/3 more circular routes.
Please contact us today for more information or to book.
Email - [email protected]
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