For those staying in Ambleside without a car, or anyone looking for a proper fell walk without a long drive, Low Pike is the perfect objective. It's the first summit on the southern ridge of the famous Fairfield Horseshoe, offering a satisfying climb and stunning views back over Ambleside, Windermere, and across to the Langdale Pikes. The route has some challenging sections but rewards with a real sense of being in the high fells.
The Walk at a Glance
3 Hours
Out and back
3 Miles / 4.8 km
Steep ascent
Moderate
Boggy and rocky
Good for Fit Dogs
Scrambling sections
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Start in Ambleside
From the centre of Ambleside, head north and turn into Nook Lane (near the Golden Rule pub). Follow this lane as it climbs out of the town, passing Nook End Farm and crossing Scandale Beck via Low Sweden Bridge.
2. The Rising Path
After the bridge, the track climbs through fields alongside a stone wall. This wall will be your companion for much of the ascent. The views back towards Ambleside and Windermere open up beautifully as you gain height.
3. Navigating Sweden Crag
The path divides as it approaches the rocky outcrop of Sweden Crag. The direct route involves an awkward rock step. For an easier alternative, take the path to the right which bypasses the scramble and rejoins the main route above the crag.
4. Boggy Ground to the Summit
Above Sweden Crag, the path can become very boggy. It's often easier to cross the wall to your left via a stile to avoid the worst of it. The final section involves some easy scrambling up rocky outcrops to reach the summit cairn of Low Pike (508m).
5. The Return
From the summit, you can see the path continuing up towards High Pike and Fairfield. For this walk, simply retrace your steps carefully back down the same route, enjoying the fantastic views all the way back to Ambleside.
Visitor Information & Tips
- Parking: Park in one of the main pay-and-display car parks in Ambleside. The walk starts directly from the town, making it very convenient.
- Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots are essential for this walk due to the boggy sections and rocky scrambles.
- Extend the Walk: If you're feeling energetic, you can continue from Low Pike up to High Pike, which offers even more expansive views for relatively little extra effort.
- Refreshments: Ambleside has a huge variety of pubs, cafes, and restaurants, perfect for celebrating your successful walk.
More to Explore Nearby
Fairfield Horseshoe
Low Pike is the first summit on this classic high-level ridge walk, one of the most famous and challenging day walks in the Lake District, which bags eight Wainwright summits in one go.
Stock Ghyll Force
A beautiful 70-foot waterfall located in woodland just a short walk from the centre of Ambleside. An excellent option for a shorter, less strenuous walk.
Loughrigg Fell
On the opposite side of Ambleside, Loughrigg Fell offers another fantastic half-day walk with superb views of Grasmere, Rydal Water, and the Langdale Pikes.