Meet time: 8:30am, outside the Apple Pie Café, Ambleside
Start time: 8:45am
Estimated finish time: Between 4:00pm and 6:00pm, depending on the pace of the group
Distance: About 10–11 miles (16–18 kilometres)
Ascent: About 3,000 feet (around 910 metres)
Ramblers walk grading: A/B (A longer and more demanding fell walk with sustained climbs and descents on open fell terrain. The grading reflects distance and ascent rather than technical difficulty.)
Car parking: Rydal Road car park, Ambleside (pay & display). This is close to the café and can fill up quickly, particularly on fine days. Please arrive early to secure a space. Car sharing is encouraged, and please park considerately.
Description: This is a classic Lake District circular fell walk taking in the Fairfield Horseshoe, one of the area’s most celebrated ridge routes. The walk forms a sweeping horseshoe above Ambleside, visiting a succession of high fells and Wainwright summits with expansive views throughout. We’ll climb steadily from Ambleside onto the ridge, typically via Nab Scar, before continuing over Heron Pike and Great Rigg.
From here we reach Fairfield, the highest point of the walk, before following the ridge on to Hart Crag, Dove Crag, High Pike and Low Pike, eventually descending back towards Ambleside to complete the circuit. Terrain is varied and includes grassy slopes, rocky paths and exposed ridge sections. Good footwear, suitable clothing and a reasonable level of hill fitness are essential.
This walk is part of the new SuMMit Slowly with Kate series. SuMMit Slowly walks take a gentler pace with more frequent stops, allowing time to rest, enjoy the views and take photos. Through the year we’ll aim to tick off a good few Wainwrights via multi-summit circular walks, focusing on enjoyment, confidence and shared experience rather than speed.
Walk Leader: Kate Garratt (07850 003215)
Please check the weather forecast before the walk and bring suitable clothing (waterproofs, spare warm layers), sturdy walking boots with good grip, and enough food and water for the day. The walk leader reserves the right to turn away any walker not suitably equipped. The leader may cancel or amend the route depending on conditions.
New members: New members are always welcome. The walk leader may ask for some information about your walking experience to help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable walk.
Dogs: Dogs may be welcome on this walk, but numbers may need to be limited. Please contact the walk leader in advance if you wish to bring your dog. You are solely responsible for your dog during the walk.
Refreshments: Bring a packed lunch, plenty to drink and lots of snacks. There will also be the option to have dinner in Ambleside afterwards.
Sign up: Please sign up using the walk form here: