Download GPS FileThe Fairfield Horseshoe from Ambleside
Route Outline
The Fairfield horseshoe is a popular Lake District walk starting and finishing in Ambleside (Grid ref. NY 375045). A shorter version is detailed in walk 1170. From the centre of Ambleside take the Kirkstone Road for a short way turning down the first lane on the left. This leads to Low Sweden Bridge from where the views of the Fells begin to improve. The onward path to Low Pike is well-trodden and you soon find yourself alongside the ridge wall. This leads onwards over High Pike and onto Dove Crag. As you climb, the views on both sides are excellent and improve with each step.
GPS Files - Notes
This GPS file is for private use only and is subject to copyright. It should not be used on other websites
GPS files do not show topography and dangerous terrain and should be used in conjunction with paper maps. Suitable maps are listed below. The preferred scale is 1:25000 especially in hilly and mountainous areas.
These walks have been published for use by site visitors on the understanding that Walking Britain is not held responsible for the safety or well being of those following the routes as described. It is worth reiterating the point that you should embark on a walk with the correct maps preferably at 1:25000 scale. This will enable any difficulties with route finding to be assessed and corrective action taken if necessary.
GPS files - right click or option-click the button and choose "Save As..." to download this file.
Maps

Ordnance Survey Explorer OL5 | Sheet Map | 1:25k | BUY |
Anquet OS Explorer OL5 | Digital Map | 1:25k | BUY |
Ordnance Survey Explorer OL7 | Sheet Map | 1:25k | BUY |
Anquet OS Explorer OL7 | Digital Map | 1:25k | BUY |
Ordnance Survey Landranger 90 | Sheet Map | 1:50k | BUY |
Anquet OS Landranger 90 | Digital Map | 1:50k | BUY |
It is recommended you take a map. The preferred scale is 1:25k.
Other walks nearby
Walk 1170 A shortened version of the Fairfield Horseshoe - mod/hard - 9.5 miles/15.4 km
Walk 1023 Wansfell Pike & Wansfell from Ambleside - easy/mod - 7.5 miles/12.2 km
Walk 3519 High Sweden Bridge from Ambleside - easy/mod - 3.0 miles/4.9 km
Walk 3075 Ambleside and Rydal circular - easy/mod - 6.5 miles/10.6 km
Walk 3423 Dove Crag & Red Screes - Scandale Horseshoe - mod/hard - 9.5 miles/15.4 km
Further Information
Stay Safe
Do enjoy yourself when out walking and choose a route that is within your capabilities especially with regard to navigation.
Do turn back if the weather deteriorates especially in winter or when visibility is poor.
Do wear the right clothing for the anticipated weather conditions. If the weather is likely to change for the worse make sure you have enough extra clothing in your pack.
Do tell someone where you are planning to walk especially in areas that see few other walkers.
Do take maps and other navigational aids. Do not rely on mobile devices in areas where reception is poor. Take spare batteries especially in cold weather.
Do check the weather forecast before leaving. The Met Office has a number of forecasts for walkers that identify specific weather risks.
;Mountain Weather
Stay safe on the mountains with detailed weather forecasts - for iOS devices or for Android devices.