Ambleside and the Fairfield Horseshoe.

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High pressure was forecast for today so we had the whole of the Lakes to choose from. In the end we went for the Fairfield Horseshoe as we haven't been to Ambleside for some time. The early morning drive gave some excellent views with sun on the fells and mist in the hollows. We were on the hill by 9.00 so there were few people about as we did the first leg over Low Pike and High Pike to Dove Crag top. The visibility was excellent and as we sat and had a snack on Dove Crag Blackpool Tower was clearly visible. 
On the next leg over Hart Crag to Fairfield we saw more folk out enjoying the fantastic weather and the summit cairn and shelters were quite busy. We ate our early lunch looking across to Helvellyn and down Deepdale away from the crowds. It became very cool at this point so hats and gloves were dug out of sacs before we headed off on the descent over Great Rigg and Heron Pike. We were glad of our early start as there were a lot of people out by this stage and the car park in Ambleside was full when we arrived back.
We had a pleasant wander around the shops before heading home. A superb day on the hill.

The views west were superb as we climbed up over Low and High Pike.




Following the wall up to Dove Crag.


Dove Crag summit.


The view east from the summit.


Heading over Hart Crag for Fairfield.






High on Fairfield.


Two views from our lunch spot:
Towards Helvellyn


 Down Deepdale.


Wrapped up against the cool wind.


Heading down on a stunning day.




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