Fairfield Horseshoe from Rydal
Cumbria
The Fairfield Horseshoe is one of the great ridge walks of the Lakes, sweeping round the head of Rydale over eight Wainwrights in a high mountain loop. From Rydal Hall the path climbs up Nab Scar and along the airy eastern arm over Heron Pike and Great Rigg to the broad stony summit of Fairfield at 873m, returning down the western arm over Hart Crag, Dove Crag and High Pike. It is a dog friendly outing for experienced hill dogs, with miles of open ridge and very little exposure.
Park opposite Rydal Hall on the A591 or at the small Rydal Road car park in Ambleside. Herdwick sheep graze the lower slopes and the summit plateau of Fairfield itself is known for ground-nesting birds, so dogs must be on a lead throughout the walk. The terrain is stone path on the ascent and descent, with a wide grassy plateau that can be confusing in mist. Water is scarce on the ridge, so carry enough for your dog, and Alcock Tarn and Scandale Beck offer a cooling stop on the way back. Rydal Hall tearoom is a dog friendly spot at the finish.
At a Glance
- Distance
- 16.0 km (9.9 miles)
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Duration
- 6 hr 30 min
- Walk Type
- Peak, Moorland
- Route Type
- Circular
- Off Lead Potential
- Low
- Livestock Risk
- High
- Facilities
- Dog friendly tearoom at Rydal Hall; pubs and cafes in Ambleside two miles down the road.
- Parking
- Limited free roadside parking opposite Rydal Hall or pay and display in Ambleside.
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