Alpine Preparation in the Lake District

Is this the course for me?

You're planning a trip to the Alps. Some scrambling or mountain walking experience is useful.

What level of fitness do I need?

Fitness level 2: you exercise regularly through the week – running, walking, cycling or playing sports. You can sustain a raised heart rate for a 45 minute run or a 2 hour bike ride. You can walk in the mountains or climb all day, but feel tired at the end.

What does the course cover?

Pre-Alpine training for aspiring Alpinists, including:

• crevasse rescue

• ropework

• techniques for moving quickly and safely over consequential ground.

Snow is not needed - we can simulate conditions using rock faces.

What's the maximum ratio?

1:4

Where do the courses take place?

Please check out the Essential Info for the Lake District page.

What dates are available?

You choose the date, and we tailor the programme for you. Available dates are shown in the Climbing & Mountaineering in the Lake District section on the calendar.

How much will it cost, what about transport, and what do I need to bring?

Please check out the Essential Info for the Lake District page.

What do our clients say about us?

The 2 days were tailored to our requirements and suited me perfectly, particularly increasing my confidence. The programme was excellent - just what we needed and asked for. Chris was excellent. Despite being a numpty with knots I was never made to feel like the beginner that I am. Chris was recommended by a friend, who trusted Chris to take his son safely up the Matterhorn - surely the highest accolade. 
Wendy Dodds, April 2017

I had to change my course dates due to work commitments on two occasions. Anne and Chris were more than accommodating, giving me alternative dates almost immediately. Chris asked me what I wanted to achieve and areas I felt I needed to develop in. After a quick chat on day one we agreed a programme and it was non stop from there ! Chris is a total professional who is extremely passionate and knowledgeable about what he does .Always happy to demonstrate and explain on multiple occasions in my case!
Phil Brown, May 2018

Prompt replies to emails were very helpful. Good information on the website. Kit list was helpful. I liked that we were able to decide what we wanted to do as we went along. It felt that we got the most out of the weekend as all the stuff we were doing was new, as opposed to covering old ground. Alex and I had different levels of experience but Chris was able to make it work for both of us. During "downtime" whilst having lunch or walking between sites Chris was always teaching. Definitely felt that we got our money's worth. Alex and I both think Chris is an excellent guide and we’re looking forward to doing Alpine mountaineering with him this summer.
Hugh Roberts, December 2018