The Fairfield Horseshoe | Lake District | 18km

Join us on Saturday 23rd August for a full-day adventure in the Lake District, tackling the iconic Fairfield Horseshoe—an 18km ridge walk with big views, big peaks, and a proper sense of mountain magic. Starting in the charming town of Ambleside, this circular route bags eight Wainwrights, follows a dry-stone wall for miles, and ends with a secret waterfall. Basically, it's the ultimate Lakeland loop.

THIS IS A PAID FOR EVENT. BOOK VIA THE ROSA WEBSITE: https://www.rayofsunadventures.com/event-details-registration/the-fairfield-horseshoe

If you love a mountain day that feels like a journey—ridgelines, summits, hidden gems, and the odd “ooooh” moment—this one’s for you.

### Why Join?

This isn’t just a walk—it’s a full-on mini-mission through the heart of fell country:
🥾 Bagging 8 summits in one glorious loop
🏞️ Panoramic views of Windermere, the Far Eastern Fells, and beyond
📜 Walking along one of the longest dry-stone walls in the Lakes
🌊 Visiting the hidden Grot and waterfall at Rydal Hall
🤗 Meeting fab people and sharing a top-tier day out in the hills

### Route Highlights

⛰️ High Pike (656m) – A perfect warm-up with dreamy views down to Windermere and a long dry-stone wall leading the way. A classic Lakeland start.
🧗‍♂️ Dove Crag (792m) – Towering over Dovedale with its iconic cliff face and the hidden Priest’s Hole Cave (we won’t be visiting it this time, but it's a beauty to know about).
🗻 Fairfield (873m) – The high point of the day! An airy summit with sweeping grassy ridges and views that’ll stop you in your tracks.
🌄 Great Rigg (766m) – More grassy goodness and wild panoramic scenes of the Southern Fells and Coniston range.
🪶 Heron Pike (612m) – Our final summit before descending towards Rydal, with peaceful views and that “we’ve done it” feeling.
🌳 Rydal Hall & The Grot – We'll stroll through Rydal Hall’s lovely grounds and discover the Grot, a secret mossy viewing hut overlooking a beautiful waterfall—perfect spot for a quiet moment or that final selfie.
☕ Return to Ambleside for optional post-hike treats (ice cream, coffee, or an emergency pie—your call).

### Event Details

📅 Date: Saturday 23rd August 2025
🕘 Time: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm
📏 Distance: Approx. 18 km (11.2 miles)
⛰️ Ascent: 890m
🔀 Difficulty Level: Advanced – a big day with sustained climbs and descents (Check out our hiking difficulty grading system HERE!)
🧭 Terrain: Mountain paths, grassy ridges, rocky sections, and exposed ground