How to start mountaineering in the UK

Hill walking is walking in the hills and mountains. The uplands can be hazardous, so you need a little knowledge and some basic equipment. A beginner practises navigation on low ground first, in summer, and does not start on a scramble or in winter.

A first session

The British Mountaineering Council (BMC) is the national representative body for climbers, hill walkers, mountaineers and ski mountaineers in England and Wales.

There are many ways in. The BMC says the best way is the one that suits you. If you are a complete beginner, practise navigation on low ground first, then take on bigger walks as you get more confident. You can learn with a friend, a club member, a group leader or a training provider. You can hire a leader to take you, or a group, into the hills. The BMC has over 250 affiliated clubs in England and Wales, and a club is a way to learn some skills.

One taught course for people who are new to the hills is called Hill Skills. No previous experience is required, and the minimum age is 10. It takes two days, in hill and moorland areas across the UK and Ireland. The people who run it are experienced hill walkers. You plan a walk, learn what to take and how to pack, use a map and compass, and cover common hazards and what to do in an emergency.

Scrambling sits between walking and climbing, and it needs some rock climbing, so it is a step on from hill walking. Winter hill walking needs extra skills that are not needed for the rest of the year. That is not where you start.

What to take

For a first day, take walking boots or shoes, a warm layer such as fleece or wool, and a waterproof outer layer. Avoid cotton and denim. They get wet easily, dry slowly, and are cold when wet. Also take a map and compass, a torch, a rucksack, food and drink, and a mobile phone.

If you are just starting out, use what you have, as long as it keeps you safe, healthy and comfortable. On many lowland walks in good weather, most hill walkers will not need much specialist clothing or equipment. On the BMC's further list, items such as a whistle or spare gloves can be shared with friends or family, or you can own them.

Our club map shows some UK mountaineering clubs, and it is a starting point rather than a full list.

If you would like help finding a coach, ESP can match you. The fee is £29.99. Nothing is charged when you send the form. The coach's own fees are separate. We refund the fee if we cannot provide a coach, or if your health means you cannot train. If the student is under 18, we need a guardian's consent, we contact that guardian, and the guardian travels with them.