Highlight • Trail
Fairfield Summit
Hiking
5.0
(365)
Running
5.0
(9)
Due to this, walking routes to Fairfield have something of a Jekyll and Hyde nature. Despite the drama and atmosphere awaiting discovery at the head of Deepdale in the east, the fell is most commonly ascended from the south, as the high point of the beloved Fairfield Horseshoe.
A mountain of contrasting sides, magnificent views and glorious accessibility
The Fairfield Horseshoe is one of the classic high mountain routes in Lakeland. Its mixture of accessibility from popular Ambleside, stunning panoramas, gradual gradients, low technical difficulty and length make it a perfect challenge for budding hillwalkers. Taking in no less than eight Wainwrights, it’s both family friendly and an adventurous, committing and strenuous expedition. Ambleside is the obvious base.
However, if you like your mountains wild and rough around the edges, you won’t go far wrong by delving into the jaws of Deepdale and discovering adventure amongst Fairfield’s north and east facing crags. Patterdale is the base for routes from this side, all of which are long outings, whether heading into Deepdale or the equally rugged Grisedale.
Once you reach the summit, the peaks of the south and western Lake District are liberally draped across the horizon: an awe-inspiring panorama. Closer by, your eye will trace the bulk of St Sunday Crag to the southern tip of beautiful Ullswater. To the north are the superb eastern arms of the Helvellyn range, reaching away from the main ridge system.
In full winter conditions, Fairfield is probably best left to those with crampons and ice axes, though if there’s just a mere dusting of snow, gradual routes from the south will reward your adventurous spirit. Be mindful of daylight hours, as most approaches to Fairfield are lengthy.
This Highlight is in a protected area
Please check local regulations for:
Tips
December 13, 2019
Hiking
September 2, 2019
Hiking
November 25, 2020
Hiking
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Nearby routes
Best routes near Fairfield Summit
4.8
(495)
3,931
hikers
17.7km
06:01
890m
890m
The Fairfield Horseshoe from Ambleside offers a challenging circular hike through the Lake District National Park, renowned for its incredible panoramic views. This difficult route covers 11.0 miles (17.7 km) with a significant elevation gain of 2918 feet (889 metres), typically taking around 6 hours and 1 minutes to complete. You will encounter varied terrain, from grassy paths and rocky climbs to some scrambles, all while enjoying expansive vistas of Lake Windermere, Rydal Water, and Grasmere, with the dramatic crags of Fairfield's northern side adding to the visual appeal.
Planning your visit requires a good level of fitness and experience, as this is considered a full-day mountain walk. Be prepared for potentially boggy sections, especially on the east side of the horseshoe, and steep, tricky descents. While paths are generally well-defined, navigation can be challenging on Fairfield's broad summit, particularly in poor visibility, so carrying a compass and knowing how to use it is essential to stay on track.
This trail is celebrated as a classic fell walk, offering one of the most satisfying circular routes in the region. It allows you to 'bag' numerous Wainwright peaks, including Fairfield, Hart Crag, and Dove Crag, all in one outing. The route also features a long dry stone wall on its eastern side, which aids navigation, and passes historical sites like Rydal Mount, once home to William Wordsworth, adding a cultural layer to your adventure.
4.7
(54)
529
hikers
18.0km
06:36
940m
940m
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
4.9
(18)
235
hikers
Hard hike. Very good fitness required. Mostly accessible paths. Sure-footedness required.
Details
Informations
Elevation 920 m
Good to know
Family Friendly
yes
Wheelchair access
no
Dog Friendly
yes
Weather
Powered by Foreca
Wednesday 5 August
16°C
9°C
16 %
Additional weather tips
Max wind speed: 17.0 km/h
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