A 2-day/2-night trip: hiking in The Lake District National Park, including hiking the classic Fairfield Horseshoe.

The Fairfield Horseshoe is a truly remarkable hiking route in the Lake District National Park. It’s an adventure that promises breath-taking scenery, a variety of terrains and a real sense of achievement!

The Fairfield Horseshoe is more than just a hike; it’s a journey through nature’s wonders and a chance to connect with the rich history and culture of the Lake District. So, put on your hiking boots, grab your backpack and experience the magic of the Fairfield Horseshoe for yourself!

As with all City Mountaineering trips, we’ll get you off the busy tourist trails and head instead to the quieter parts of the National Park, drawing on our local knowledge and years of experience to provide a truly unique adventure you’ll never forget.

Relaxation is the name of the game on this trip and, whilst we’ll still be hiking up to summits, the aim of this trip is to enjoy, not endure! And, of course, we’ll make sure there’s a pub at the end of the hike too – if they’re open!

This is an ideal trip for an experienced hiker who wants a bit more of a challenge.  Of course, as with all trips, the aim of this trip is to enjoy, not endure, so we’ll be hiking at a nice pace so you can look up and enjoy the experience, rather than it being an endurance-fest!

And, of course, we’ll make sure there’s a pub at the end of the hike too!

As always, we’ll sort out the travel, accommodation and guided hikes so just meet in London and leave the rest to us.

From London to the Lake District and back in a weekend!

Itinerary

  • Meet outside Euston train station at 6pm. You will then board the train for a relaxing journey to The Lake District.
  • You will be met at the Lake District train station and transported the short distance to your hostel accommodation for the weekend – nestled amongst towering mountains and set next to a beautiful lake, this trip is set to be a wonderful detox in nature, away from the sounds and lights of the city.

  • After a lazy morning eating breakfast we will pack our day bags and take a short drive to the start of our hike on The Fairfield Horseshoe.
  • After reaching the 8 Wainwright summits on this route, we will head back to the hostel for showers and a change of clothes before heading out to a local pub for dinner.

  • After another lazy morning, we will head out on circular hike over a smaller, neighbouring peak offering spectacular views across much of the Lake District.
  • At the end of the hike you will be transferred to the railway station for your train back to London, glowing and rejuvenated after a relaxing weekend spent in nature (expect to arrive back to London at c.9pm)

Return train travel from London (note: if you do not require train travel, use the discount code: NOTRANSPORT to receive £95 off the marked price)
2-nights hostel accommodation
2-days guided hiking by a highly experienced and qualified mountain leader
Breakfasts and Lunches
All travel and logistical support in The Lake District

Note: The weather and ground conditions will not be known until closer to the date and full winter conditions, whilst expected at this time of year, cannot be guaranteed.  The trip will go ahead regardless of conditions (The only exception being if the prevailing weather is too dangerous e.g. Thunderstorms)

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Trip Highlights

  • Spectacular Scenery: The Fairfield Horseshoe offers some of the most stunning panoramic views in the Lake District. As you hike, you’ll be treated to vistas of pristine lakes, rugged mountains, and lush valleys. It’s a photographer’s dream!
  • The Challenge: A 20km hike with c.1,200m of ascent, this trip presents a satisfying challenge for those seeking a bit more adventure.
  • Bag Multiple Peaks: This hike provides an opportunity to summit several peaks, including Fairfield, Hart Crag, Dove Crag, and Great Rigg. Bagging multiple peaks in one day adds to the sense of accomplishment.
  • Historical Significance: Fairfield Horseshoe has historical significance, with traces of old mining activities and quarries along the route. You’ll also come across ancient cairns and stone walls that harken back to a bygone era.
  • Community and Tradition: Hiking the Fairfield Horseshoe allows you to become part of a tradition enjoyed by countless outdoor enthusiasts over the years. This classic route is a must for any hill walker!

Our Hike Grading System

A simple 1–5 difficulty rating, built on real feedback from asking over 1,000 participants who’ve joined more than one City Mountaineering trip.

This grading system gives you an honest idea of how each trip feels — physically, technically, and mentally — based on the experiences of people who’ve actually done it.