If there’s one thing that defines winter climbing in the UK, it’s uncertainty. The difference between a perfect day and a dangerous one often comes down to timing — whether the turf is frozen, the snow is stable, or the ice is solid. Judging winter conditions  is one of the most important skills any mountaineer can learn, and it takes far more than checking the weather forecast. Good decision-making in winter isn’t just about knowledge — it’s about avoidance observation, pati

Winter climbing in the UK is a world apart from summer rock climbing. Routes transform completely — dry cracks become icy grooves, grass ledges freeze solid, and a thin coating of snow can turn an easy scramble into a serious mountaineering challenge. Because of that, grading winter climbs isn’t straightforward. It’s not just about how steep or technical the climbing is — it’s also about the conditions , the type of terrain , and the seriousness  of the route. In this guide,

There’s something incredibly satisfying about moving confidently across snow and ice — secure, efficient, and in control. But to get there takes more than just owning the right kit. Crampons and ice axes  are two of the most important tools in winter mountaineering and ice climbing, and knowing how to use them properly can make the difference between a smooth, enjoyable day and a dangerous one. I’ve climbed with loads of a different people in winter and one thing always stand

Winter mountaineering is one of the most fulfilling and memorable ways to experience the mountains. Crisp air, frozen ridges, and the quiet of a snow-covered landscape make for an experience unlike any other. But winter also brings a range of hazards that demand careful attention and respect. Snow, ice, and cold temperatures transform the terrain, and even familiar routes can become serious undertakings. Managing these risks isn’t simply about having the right equipment — it’

Winter in the mountains transforms everything. Ridges that feel friendly in summer become serious undertakings, gullies fill with snow and ice, and every decision — from what you wear to how you move — matters more. It’s part of what makes winter mountaineering and ice climbing  so rewarding: the challenge, the adventure, and the feeling of being completely absorbed in the environment. But that challenge also demands the right kit. Over the years, I’ve seen how the right equi

Climbing is an incredible sport — it challenges your strength, technique, and mental focus. But like any physically demanding activity, it comes with risk. Over the years, I’ve worked with climbers of all levels, and I’ve seen that most injuries are preventable with awareness, preparation, and good habits . Knowing what injuries are common, why they happen, and how to prevent them can help you stay on the wall longer, improve safely, and enjoy every session. Whether you’re ju

When someone comes to me asking how to get better at climbing, the first thing I always say is this: Technique is everything . Strength is helpful, but technique allows you to climb efficiently, move confidently on difficult terrain, and prevent unnecessary fatigue or injury. The good news is that technique is something you can actively develop — with the right mindset, practice, and guidance. Over the years, I’ve worked with climbers of all levels, from complete beginners to

When someone first comes to me looking to get into climbing, one of the first questions I get is: “What gear do I actually need?”  The truth is, you don’t need a mountain of equipment to get started — but having the right essentials  and knowing how to use them correctly is absolutely critical. Over the years, I’ve seen beginners struggle or feel overwhelmed simply because they weren’t familiar with their gear. Learning how to use it properly not only keeps you safe but also

If you’ve ever picked up a climbing guidebook or scrolled through an online route description, you’ve probably seen a topo . Topos are essentially maps of climbing routes, showing the line of the climb, protection points, anchors, and key features. For a beginner, a topo can look like a confusing jumble of lines, numbers, and symbols. But once you learn to interpret it, a topo becomes one of your most powerful tools on the rock — helping you plan, move safely, and climb with

One of the most exciting things about climbing is how varied it can be. From short, powerful boulder problems to long, exposed mountain routes, every style offers something unique — a different challenge, mindset, and reward. If you’re new to climbing, the range of options can seem overwhelming at first. But once you understand how each type of climbing works — and what it demands from you — you can start to choose the style that best matches your goals and personality. As a

Rock climbing is one of those adventures that looks deceptively simple from the ground. Standing at the base of a crag in Snowdonia, it’s easy to feel both excited and intimidated. As someone who has spent years guiding climbers across North Wales, I know that the key to a successful start isn’t just strength or daring — it’s understanding the fundamentals, having the right equipment, and building confidence gradually. Before you even think about stepping onto the rock, it’s

As we drove into the “Valley” El Capitan looms, a gigantic monolith blocking most of the car windscreen. When I leant forward to get a...

This is a goal setting review article I wrote previously, but the information is as relevant as ever, hopefully it is helpful for you....

The start of a new year is always a time of reflection for me, looking back on the successes and struggles of the year just gone and...

Winter climbing is lots of fun, but being cold isn’t. A good clothing layering system goes a long way to helping keep us warm and dry,...

The Rab Mythic Ultra insulated down jacket is a high-performance piece of outerwear designed for use in cold alpine conditions. I...

When you first start climbing outside, finding places to go can be quite daunting and certainty when began climbing, I found myself...

How to choose winter mountaineering boots?

Dogs at the crag can be a divisive subject, with some people welcoming the addition of a friendly pooch and others cringing at the sight...

ow to go Sea Cliff Climbing It’s no secret that I’m a big lover of sea cliff climbing, with North Wales having some great sea cliffs to...