NY3511 : Crags on Fairfield

Fairfield

873m Elevation
300m Prominence
England Country
Find walking friends Explore routes

Good walks are even better shared.

NY3511 : Crags on Fairfield

Michael Graham Photo source

Explore routes near Fairfield

Walks starting near this hill. Open a route to check its map, distance and full itinerary.

Helvellyn via Striding Edge

11.2 km ~6h Hard

View route

Striding Edge, Helvellyn and Catstye Cam

12 km ~6h 30m Hard

View route

Scafell Pike from Seathwaite via the Corridor Route

14.1 km ~7h Hard

View route

Tarn Hows Fast Route

4.1 km ~1h Moderate

View route

Route planning notes

These notes describe possible approaches. Check a route's map and access information when planning your walk.

Fairfield Horseshoe

The classic Fairfield Horseshoe is one of the most famous walks in the Lake District, starting from Ambleside. The route ascends via Nab Scar, Heron Pike, and Great Rigg before reaching Fairfield's summit. The descent follows Hart Crag, Dove Crag, High Pike, and Low Pike, completing the horseshoe shape. This route offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding fells and Windermere.

16 km ~6 hours Hard

Fairfield from Patterdale via St Sunday Crag

This route begins in Patterdale and ascends via Birks and St Sunday Crag before reaching the summit of Fairfield. The return can be made by descending via Cofa Pike and Deepdale Hause, offering a dramatic ridge walk and views over Ullswater and the Helvellyn range.

14 km ~5.5 hours Hard

Fairfield via Grisedale Tarn

Starting from Grasmere, this route ascends to Fairfield via Tongue Gill and Grisedale Tarn, a scenic mountain tarn nestled between Seat Sandal and Dollywagon Pike. The climb to Fairfield is steep but rewarding, and the return can be made by retracing your steps or descending via Great Rigg.

12 km ~4.5 hours Moderate

Fairfield from Rydal via Nab Scar

This shorter route starts in Rydal and ascends directly via Nab Scar, continuing over Heron Pike and Great Rigg to Fairfield. It's a more direct but steep approach to the summit, suitable for those who want a shorter outing while still experiencing the beauty of the Fairfield range.

10 km ~4 hours Moderate

Fairfield via Deepdale Round

This lesser-known circular route starts in Deepdale and ascends Fairfield via Deepdale Hause and Cofa Pike. The return journey follows the ridge over St Sunday Crag and Birks back to Deepdale. This route offers quieter paths and exceptional views of the fells and valleys.

15 km ~5.5 hours Hard
Browse more walks on the map

Make a day of it, together

Find someone to share the walk with, or organise a day out along a route you like.

Find walking friends Plan a walk here
Hill facts and local notes

Classifications

Marilyn Simm Hewitt Nuttall High Hills of Britain Wainwright Birkett Synge Fellranger

Elevation

873m

2,865 ft

Prominence

300m

Coordinates

54.4971, -2.9917

NY358117

OS Map

90

Explorer: OL5S

At the Summit

The summit features a large stone cairn and a trig point, perfect for those Instagram snaps and signature selfies.

Terrain & Geology

Mix of rocky and grassy terrain with some boggy sections that can catch the unwary hiker by surprise.

Fairfield is primarily composed of Skiddaw slate, with various sedimentary rocks that have weathered into steep crags and rolling ridges. The area is dotted with intriguing geological features such as rock faces and screes.

Views & Scenery

From the summit, you can see the striking peaks of Helvellyn, St. Sunday Crag, and the sprawling depths of the valleys below. On a clear day, the views stretch out to the Irish Sea.

History & Heritage

Name Origin

Fairfield’s name is derived from its weathered plateau and lush pastures, giving it a peaceful appeal. It evokes the imagery of a field with picturesque views.

Historical Significance

The area surrounding Fairfield is rich in cultural and historical significance, being a part of the scenic landscape that inspired many poets and artists.

Getting There & Facilities

Parking

The nearest parking area is at Rydal Water, a popular spot with ample space but can fill up quickly on weekends. Arrive early to secure a space!

Public Transport

Buses run from Windermere to Rydal, making it accessible by public transport. Check the local timetables for the latest information.

Nearby Facilities

There are several cafes and shops in Ambleside where you can refuel after your hike, as well as public toilets available throughout the town.

Safety Information

Known Hazards

  • Be aware of sudden weather changes; the Lake District is known for its unpredictability. Rocky outcrops and steep drops can present challenges, so watch your step!

General Safety Tips

  • Check weather conditions before setting out
  • Carry appropriate clothing and equipment
  • Let someone know your planned route
  • Take a map, compass, and GPS device
  • Carry emergency supplies: food, water, first aid kit, torch

Hills

Some common questions about the hills answered

Are there group walks up Fairfield?

Many walkers use Walkmates to join or organise walks with others. You can check for group walks around Fairfield through the maps

Are there other walkers around Fairfield?

Activity varies by location and time, but Walkmates lets you see whether others have shared walks or shown interest in this area. Find other people through the walking friends search walking friends for Fairfield search or of course create your own walk for Fairfield

Can I organise a walk to Fairfield?

Yes. If there aren’t any walks listed already, you can create a walk and make it available for others to join.

If you're signed up to Walkmates, you can create a walk to Fairfield.

How do I find a walk up this hill?

There are often multiple ways to walk this hill, depending on experience and route preference. Walkmates helps you explore walks and routes that others have shared.

Can I suggest a new route up Fairfield?

Yes. You can suggest or create routes to share with others. Walkmates focuses on the social side of walking, so routes are used to help people organise walks and explore areas together, rather than as detailed navigation tools or route libraries.

Other uses really appreciate knowledgeable walkers sharing their routes. Share your favourite route to Fairfield here

The is an error or something incorrect about this hill. How do I let you know?

We always strive to keep the information on Walkmates as accurate as possible. If you find an error, please let us know through the contact form and we'll aim to correct it as quickly as possible

Location

View the hill's mapped position and surrounding paths.

Grid reference: NY358117

View on OpenStreetMap

Opens a map in a new tab, centred on the hill.

Nearby Hills

St Sunday Crag

841m

 Helvellyn

Helvellyn

950m

Loughrigg Fell

335m

Red Screes

779m

Place Fell

657m
See 5 more nearby hills