Mountain Journeys

	Welcome to our website, please browse at your leisure! Bespoke walking events are our speciality. Talk to us about your mountain dreams, we'll do our best to exceed your expectations. Whether it be a single day walk or a full program of walks, we can meet your every need. We are UK specialists, offering ready made & bespoke trips for your complete enjoyment.
The Scafell group viewed from Harter Fell

Activities Programme -- * Prices held for 2010. Ask about our special family & group booking discounts. *

Rock Climbing / Abseiling
Ascending vertical rock faces then abseiling back down. This is pure action packed, adrenaline fuelled fun, with no experience necessary. We choose crags with easy access so you get maximum time on the rock. All safety equipment is provided by us so you can concentrate on having loads of fun, experiencing the thrill of ‘space below your feet’ and get to grips with rock climbing. Price - From £30 for half day / £50 for full day

Rock Scrambling
What a fantastic activity this is, a great way to move through the mountains. Scrambling is a mix between walking and easy rock climbing, where you can get to grips with the rock but not be encumbered with lots of bulky equipment so can move more fluidly. This is becoming a very popular sport because it offers so much fun. Our routes have been carefully chosen and offer fantastic fun, some airy situations add to the excitement and ensure your adrenaline gets pumping! Price - From £20 for half day

Gorge Scrambling The Lake District is full of hidden streams & becks of amazing beauty. A gorge walk with us will take you deep into this breathtaking scenery. Starting at the bottom of a stream we use hands and feet to ascend ravines and waterfalls, stopping to jump into or swim in hidden pools. Our routes have been carefully chosen and offer fantastic fun, suitable for all ages and great for families. Price - From £20 for half day

Guided Mountain Walk
For a truly memorable day out, join us for a trip into the mountains of South Lakeland, favoured by Wainwright and justly so. A selection of routes are on offer, including walks in the magical Troutbeck & Langdale regions. Check the website for more information then call us to reserve a place. A guided walk allows you more time to enjoy the scenery, visit lesser known quiet corners of Lakeland, and gain local knowledge. Price - From £20 per full day

All activities are available most weekends until the end of October and at other times by arrangement. Venues have been hand picked to ensure you enjoy the best experience. For all activities you will need warm & waterproof clothing, sturdy footwear & small rucksack. Please book early to avoid disappointment. Half day is 10 – 2pm or 3 – 7pm. Full day is 10 – 5pm (approx). All prices are per person, group bookings may attract a discount. We are fully qualified for & experienced in the activities provided, thus ensuring your complete enjoyment.


















Who are we?

We are Mark Eddy and Kate Ayres. We formed Mountains Journeys to meet the growing demand for high quality & bespoke guided mountain walks, providing our clients with the highest levels of service at affordable prices. Rest assured in the knowledge that all our guides are fully qualified. This ensures all clients of Mountain Journeys receive the very best attention, expertise and experience at all times. We are passionate about the mountains and will enthusiastically share this with you at every opportunity. This ensures you leave us having gained knowledge & insight into the mountain environment. We are based in the South Lakes area. [Read more about Mark and Kate ...]
	Mark on Pinnacle Ridge, Patterdale 2007	Kate, Snowdonia 2007

About Mark and Kate

Mark has walked & climbed the mountains of England, Wales & Scotland for many years. He is passionate about the mountain environment, and makes every effort to share his mountain skills, so at the end of a day you are not only refreshed & invigorated, but have gained knowledge of the mountains and how to travel amongst them. Mark has a BSc in Geography with particular interests in Geology & Glaciation,and holds the UK Mountain Leader and Single Pitch Climbing Award qualifications. In 2005 he wrote a guidebook The Mountains of Snowdonia *.

Kate is a keen mountaineer and has climbed and walked in the British mountains and the European Alps for many years. She has an extensive knowledge of the Lake District where she now lives. Kate holds the UK Mountain Leader and Single Pitch Climbing Award qualifications and recently studied at the University of Cumbria, whilst guiding walks in her spare time, gaining a BA (Hons) in Education. Kate aims to give you a safe and enjoyable time, sharing her skills and enthusiasm for the mountains with you. She also has knowledge of mountain flora, landscapes and local history of the Lake District, which she is happy to share with you.






















Introduction to climbing

Course outline - Climbing day / weekend Most of these action packed courses are run within or very near to the Lake District National Park. There is a wealth of crags to choose from and my local knowledge will help ensure we find the quieter venues. These courses are tailored to your requirements and a fully individualized itinerary will be sent to you upon booking. What we can offer is as follows: group climbing/abseiling sessions, indoor to outdoor transition, equipment selection, the leader’s rack, placing passive protection, safety at the belay ledge, belay ledge management & problems, safety of the second climber.

Lake District rock climbing with Mark

Hot Rock – El Chorro Sport Climbing

Based near to the whitewashed Andalusian village of Valle de Abdalajis we have a choice of the finest crags in the El Chorro area. The village is like a time capsule, far removed from the hustle & bustle of modern living, yet still caters well for our needs with a handful of shops & bars and a traditional charm. During the course we visit roadside and mountain climbing venues, all offering breathtaking scenery that fights for your attention. This course is aimed at a variety of people but would be most suitable for beginners wishing to take their first steps on rock or those wishing to make the transition from indoor to outdoor climbing. Rest assured you’ll be in good hands throughout your stay, all courses are run by a qualified and experienced English climbing instructor. Come and join us in the sun, take away memories to last a lifetime. Prices: From £100 per day for 1:1 From £150 per day for 2:1 From £175 per day for 3:1 From £200 per day for 4:1 These prices do not include cost of travel to Spain or for accommodation during your stay. Accommodation can be arranged by us, please ask when booking. All transport during your stay is included, including pick up/drop off at the airport, should you require this.

Note on accommodation: we can arrange a variety of accommodation types from high quality villas with pools, to simple Refugios and Hostels. Our first recommendation is La Grajala (see it in our Picture Gallery), a beautifully restored country house set in 14 acres of Olive grove. For a group of four this could be the best option. For smaller groups it is still worth considering, just a little more costly per person as it sleeps five in comfort.












Navigation Courses

Increase your confidence to navigate in difficult terrain like this on the Scafell Massif

These are courses for those who wish to learn & improve their navigational skills. Areas covered will include: Orientating a map, identifying topographical features, pacing, timing, distances, map & compass, bearings, mountain weather (storms, fronts, hypothermia), equipment choice, route choice. The photograph you see here is taken from the summit of Scafell Pike, this is a notoriously difficult area for the navigationally challenged, many people get lost here every year. With enhanced navigational skills you will be able to move more confidently over such terrain, so what are you waiting for? Give us a call to book your place now. Note: we offer this trip with a number of starting locations depending on weather & group preference. Mountain Navigation weekend workshop – From £149 Mountain Navigation day – From £49

Undiscovered Lakeland – From £199

The Lake District contains some of the most beautiful scenery in the world. With hundreds of fells which create a vast terrain of rugged mountains. Since time began the landscape here has provided inspiration to poets such as William Wordsworth & Samuel Taylor Coleridge. Even the Roman Empire made home just below the picture shown here! Day 1: Begins in the delightful and little visited Duddon valley, a truly unspoilt area of Lakeland. We find an entertaining route to the summit of Harter Fell before heading over the wild moorland of Ulpha Fell and onto Great Whinscale, Crook Crag, The Pike & Green Crag, where we find further entertainment and fabulous views. Our return takes us through the ever changing Dunnerdale forest and back to the babbling river Duddon. Day 2: Starting at the famous landmark of The Old Dungeon Ghyll, we take the steep path up Rossett Gill to Angle Tarn, forge a way on to Esk Hause where we can enjoy some rest, shelter & views. We then descend towards the Great Moss, a real wilderness, before making an interesting scramble via a fine ridge to Ill Crag summit. We return easily to Esk Hause, and from here either walk straight back to the Langdale valley, or take in the summits of Esk Pike & Bowfell (recommended) before returning to the valley.

Challenge Event: Lake District

Lakeland 3000’ers – From £199 The Lake District contains some of the most beautiful scenery in England. It has hundreds of fells which create a vast terrain of rugged mountains. There are 4 fells which exceed the 3000ft contour. These can be combined and ascended during a long weekend, meaning you have then climbed the 4 highest peaks in England, quite an achievement. The mountains in order of height are: 1. Scafell Pike, 3210ft / 977 metres 2. Scafell, 3164ft / 964 metres 3. Helvellyn, 3118ft / 950 metres 4. Skiddaw, 3054ft / 931 metres The English Lakes offer some of the finest mountain scenery in the UK and this is a near perfect way to enjoy and get to know them.

Challenge Event: Snowdonia

Welsh 3000’ers – From £199 The 14 Peaks Challenge is an attempt to climb all fourteen 3000ft peaks in Wales in three days. This is a beautiful high level traverse passing through untamed mountain areas. We aim to complete this challenge in three days. It's physically demanding, but a fine achievement. In the evening we can relax and reflect on the achievements of the day. The Welsh Peaks offer glorious mountain scenery and this is a magnificent way to enjoy them all. The first day we traverse the Carnedau for a great high level walking day. The second day involves scrambling on Tryfan, followed by the mighty bulk of the Glyderau. Day 3 involves more scrambling and a ridge walk across the Crib Goch arête, before walking to the summit of Snowdon. The days aren't all just walking, so this gives a whole new level of excitement. Day’s 2 & 3 in particular require a head for heights as the exposure offered is quite dramatic. On first appearance, Tryfan can appear impenetrable. However our route allows for variation in difficulty levels and is actually within the capabilities of most hillwalkers. Crib Goch requires a good head for heights, surefootedness and steady nerves. There is no hiding the fact that this is a narrow, knife edge ridge. We will allow plenty of time for this.

Challenge Event: Yorkshire Dales

Yorkshire 3 peaks – From £149 To complete this route is to undertake one of the great outdoor challenges of the UK. It will be a tough day, but worth it for that feeling of satisfaction. The scenery is dramatic and ever changing, wildlife abounds as do carpets of flowers encouraged by the nutrient rich soils of the Limestone pavement. We start and finish in the sleepy village of Horton-in-Ribblesdale, from here we can observe much of the route that awaits our discovery. Upon our return to Horton, collect your vehicle and head to your nearby accommodation where an evening meal can be enjoyed.

Forthcoming day walks are as follows:


Pike of Blisco

Easy Allow 3-5 hours Terrain: Good paths, rocky in places with some steep sections. Summary: Starting from the historic 3 counties boundary of 3 shires stone. We meet a variety of landscape features along our chosen route, and given clear weather will be justly rewarded for the climb with stunning views to the Langdale Pikes from this most commanding of vantage points. It’s easy to get away from the madding crowds on this popular mountain, come along and we’ll show you how.

The summit cairn on Pike of Blisco

Troutbeck valley - Old Packhorse Bridge & Troutbeck Tongue

Easy Allow 3-5 hours Terrain: Surfaced lanes, bridleway, some sections may be boggy after rain. Summary: Arguably the prettiest of Lakeland valleys, a route to be savoured. Troutbeck is positively pastoral in scenery, think of Beethovens 6th symphony and image the scene. Rolling hills, babbling streams, birdsong and sheep filled meadows complete this magical scene. Our route involves mainly walking on the level, in order that we may spend much time enjoying the views rather than slogging up steep mountains.

Troutbeck valley with the Tongue shown centrally

Wansfell Pike - complete ridge walk

Easy Allow 3-5 hours Terrain: Good paths, indistinct at times Summary: For those staying in Troutbeck or Ambleside, it would surely be a sin not to stand atop this gorgeous hill, for what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in beauty. But don’t take my word for it, experience Wansfell for yourself. We follow good footpaths, but occasionally add to the sense of adventure by straying ‘off path’ to escape the crowds, thus enjoying the tranquility of the mountain and affording ourselves the finest of views. Our low-level return route options are equally rewarding and indulge us regularly with views of splendour.

Impressive views of The Fairfield Horseshoe as seen from Wansfell

Three Shires Stone - Cold Pike & Crinkle Crags

Moderate Allow 5-7 hours Terrain: Some pathless sections, rocky over the Crinkles, boggy underfoot. Summary: This journey begins at a high mountain pass, the meeting of the 3 shires, thus helping to take away some of the effort. We quickly escape the crowds by using pathless terrain to gain height. This allows us to visit untouched Lakeland before summiting the popular & rocky peaks of Crinkle crags. We use a well trodden path to enable an easy return journey that is further helped by impressive views of the Coniston range.

Looking towards Crinkle Crags from Blisco

Langdale Pikes - Pavey Ark, Harrison Stickle & Pike o' Stickle

Moderate Allow 5-7 hours Terrain: Well made paths, grade 1 rock scramble (optional), undulating route over tops, some loose scree during descent. Summary: Langdale is a busy valley, and justly so, for it is magnificent in every way. Our route takes in all that is great about Langdale and is sure to impress at every turn. We can find a quiet spot beside Stickle tarn while discussing the onward route, to scramble or not to scramble? For those so inclined, we can offer an introduction to the sport of rock scrambling by following an impressive line up the face of Pavey Ark. There are less demanding alternatives for those wishing to simply enjoy the walk. After summiting Pavey, we traverse easily to gain two more Langdale summits, easy or what? We finish with the obligatory visit to the ODG (Old Dungeon Ghyll) pub for refreshments under the mountains. You’ll just love it.

Looking over Stickle Tarn to a cloud filled Langdale valley

Troutbeck - Thornthwaite Crag, Froswick, Ill Bell & Yoke

Moderate Allow 6-8 hours Terrain: Bridleways, well made high mountain paths, descent is steep in places, surfaced lane through the valley. Summary: Looking from the hamlet of Troutbeck, this walk follows the skyline ridge as it wanders into the distance. The Garburn Pass is used to gain height before joining this wide, grassy ridge. This walk then becomes an undulating high level traverse taking in no less than 4 peaks. We can shelter by the beacon on Thornthwaite crag and enjoy lunch before descending to the Troutbeck valley via the Roman road of High Street. We pass two fine public houses during our return through Troutbeck, the garden of the Mortal Man will surely tempt us to defer our journey and enjoy views & ales before completing the walk.

The long & undulating ridge to Thornthwaite Beacon, as seen from Troutbeck village

The Fairfield Horseshoe

Moderate Allow 5-8 hours Terrain: Good paths, indistinct at times. Summary: A classic horseshoe starting and finishing in the bustling town of Ambleside. This is a high level route that calls for a degree of fitness, but nevertheless rewards those who persevere with spectacular views. A featureless summit plateau is a noteable part of this walk, a great reason to have a guide with you to ensure we all arrive at our destination. During our descent, we are constantly drawn downward by the captivating vistas of Lake Windermere.

Returning to Ambleside from Fairfield, with Lake Windermere in the near distance

Harter Fell - Duddon valley

Moderate Allow 4-6 hours Terrain: Forestry tracks, pathless grassy slopes. Summary: This walk takes us to a quiet corner of Lakeland. Nestling in the Duddon valley and enjoying uninterrupted views of the Scafell mountains. This is a real favorite of ours. The route soon leaves the forestry tracks and makes progress on easy angled grassy slopes before finally arriving at the rocky summit, where shelter is usually easy to find. Look out for the weird rock formations on the return leg.

Summit views from Harter Fell

Scafell Pike

Strenuous Allow 5-8 hours Terrain: Good paths, can feel steep at times, huge rocky summit. Summary: The highest peak in Britain, a great place to survey the Lakeland scenery. Whichever route we chose to ascend, we will be rewarded by stunning landscapes, and upon arrival at the huge summit plateau, a sense of satisfaction will be gained by reaching the highest land in Britain. The summit can be busy during the summer months, but due to its size, still manages to feels isolated and somehow detached from daily life.

The Scafell group viewed from Harter Fell

Helvellyn

Strenuous Allow 5-7 hours Terrain: Great paths throughout, grade 1 scramble on Striding edge (optional). Summary: From whichever way we approach, this mountain commands respect. One of only four Lakeland 3000ft peaks and long ascents from every direction, it makes you work to gain the summit. Don’t let that put you off though, we allow plenty of time, so you can enjoy each step of the way, as the scenery unfolds from lowland pasture to high mountain plateau. For those wanting the excitement of a rock scramble, we can cross Striding edge (a classic Lakeland scramble), for those wishing to simply enjoy the mountain without this added excitement, we can offer a number of alternative walking routes. Rest assured that a guide will be with you every step of the way.

Scramblers enjoying Striding Edge, Helvellyn

Langdale - Esk Pike & Bowfell

Strenuous Allow 6-8 hours Max number in party = 4 Terrain: Good bridleways & paths, pathless ascent of Esk Pike, boulder strewn in places, good paths on return. Summary: This route offers an introduction to the sport of scrambling (with the option to miss bits out at any time). From Langdale valley we ascend easily to Angle tarn, beyond this the scrambling begins. Short, easy rock steps allow confidence to build and before long we’re on the summit of Esk Pike. From here it’s a mere stroll to Bowfell before beginning our descent via The Band. We finish with the obligatory visit to the ODG (Old Dungeon Ghyll) pub for refreshments under the mountains. What a perfect end to a great mountain day.

Looking to the summit pyramid of Bowfell from its Northern reaches

What’s happening at Mountain Journeys

23rd August – Abseiling at Castle Head near to Keswick with the Surrel family. Outstanding views from the top, alas rain soon changed that! In the afternoon I was back at Stickle Ghyll in Langdale with the Lack family. Had a brilliant Gorge scramble in idea conditions.

22nd August – Mountain walk with Paul. We followed the Garburn Pass from Troutbeck up to Yolk, returning via same. Really good conditions today, warm & sunny.

21st August – A full day climbing course with John, Richard & Simon. Anna came along to help out and proved to be great company & chatty as always. We enjoyed lovely rough & dry rock high above the Langdale valley.

20th August – I meet with the Lack family at Bilbo’s in Ambleside. We discussed the days activities and headed off to Stickle Ghyll. Torrential rain had caused the Ghyll to swell to a dangerous level so a last minute change of plan saw us head off to Coniston and a dry scramble on Long Crag. Well it wasn’t very dry, but at least it wasn’t a river! With gusting winds & driving rain we had a most atmospheric of days.

14 / 15th August – in Snowdonia with Gemma. We spent the evening looking at gear placements and belay construction. The following day we headed over to Ogwen to tackle the Sub Cneifon Rib. This didn’t go according to plan and we had to abandon the route after the first pitch. We’ll be back!

13th August – Kendal climbing wall with the girls from Our Place youth club in Ambleside. The girls got on with loads of climbing for their NICAS logbooks, well done.

9th August – Tryfan North ridge with Lynn & Sam. Very wet to begin with, but the rock is not slippery under wet conditions. As we reached the summit, the clouds lifted and treated us to the amazing scenery of Snowdonia. A great day.

8th August – In Wales with Gemma. Climbed Grooved Arete on the East face of Tryfan. A majestic 233 metre route finishing near the summit. A wonderful climb with a true mountain atmosphere.

7th August – Out with the Herder family from Holland. Did a mountain scramble on Long Crag above Coniston.

6th August – A guided walk up Scafell Pike from Wasdale with a couple staying at the Holbeck Ghyll Hotel. Returning over Lingmell saw us escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful descent back to Wasdale.

2nd August – Kate was out on Pike O’ Blisco leading an Adventure walk following the path less trodden to the summit. I was out with the Herder family & Anna enjoying a day of Rock climbing on Black Crag. Perfect weather and a great venue ensured a good day was had by all.

1st August – Gorge scrambling this morning with the Herder family from Holland. Lots of getting wet and splashing about in the Ghyll. In the afternoon I met with Amber and we climbed on Black Crag. Amber excelled at climbing and we ended the day with the classic of the crag, a delightfully delicate E2 called Glass Slipper. Nice one Amber.

26th July – went into Patterdale today and climbed Pinnacle Ridge on St Sunday crag with Kate & Gemma. Very wet & windy made for a challenging but brilliant day.

20th – 24th July – Lots more walks with Paul this week.

13th July – Climbing on Raven crag with Gemma.

8th July – Scrambling on Tarn Crag with Linda from Holbeck Ghyll Hotel. We did the grade 3 route on the left side. Really good fun, finished by walking up to Stickle Tarn.

2nd – 9th July – Lots of walks with Paul this week.

2nd July – Enjoyed a fine day out on Scafell Pike with Caitlin & Derek. We followed a route from Langdale via Angle Tarn and onto the Scafell massif. Returning we also summited Great End, before dropping back into Langdale and a welcome drink at the Old Dungeon Ghyll pub.

27th June – Climbing with Colin at Upper & Lower Gaitkins buttress. Very windy. Perfect rock and we had it all to ourselves.

26th June – Climbing with Colin at Cold Pike crag. Really enjoyable venue and quiet. Did plenty of routes.

25th June – Climbed Centipede on Raven crag with Colin. After a slow start, we got into the swing of things and mostly enjoyed the route.

23rd June – A splendid walk up the Old Man of Coniston today with a couple staying at Holbeck Ghyll Hotel. Mixed weather afforded us with atmospheric views.

19th June – Over to Eskdale with Gemma & John for yet more Granite fun. This rock type is quite tricky to protect, so although the climbing is never too hard, falling off usually means quite a long fall, so a cool nerve is required!
Kate was out on a Guided Walk today with Heather. They walked the Langdale Pikes (Pavey Ark, Harrison Stickle & Pike O’ Stickle) before returning via Angle Tarn and finishing the day with a drink at the Stickle Barn Tavern.

18th June – Introduction to outdoor Rock Climbing course at Long Scar. Scott had been climbing for a while indoors and was eager to try the real thing. I don’t think he was disappointed. Climbing walls will never be the same Scott.
In the afternoon I met up with John and went over to Eskdale for some Granite climbs.

15th / 16th / 17th June – Over in Wasdale with a school group. Abseiling, Climbing & Walking. The drive to Wasdale may be hard work but I never tire of it, the scenery is simply staggering, a very special valley indeed.
On the 16th I meet up with Kate for some climbing at Demming Crag on the Northern slopes of Harter Fell. A large Granite outcrop, sadly neglected and therefore quite dirty. Worth the walk for the view though.

14th June – Introduction to outdoor Rock Climbing for Will. We climbed some routes on Pike O’ Blisco. Will was a very competent 2nd and sure to go on to great things.
Stayed on the mountain through the evening to climb with Kate & Rick.

5th / 6th / 7th June – A change of scenery, we’re working & playing in Borrowdale for these few days. Abseiling, Rock Climbing, Mountain walking up Cat Bells. We hoped to get out onto Sergeant Crag Slabs but the evening we chose turned out to be very wet!

2nd June – Climbing with Kate & Kat on Lightning Crag, Langdale. Never been here before, turned out to be a lovely little spot with perfectly rough rock. Me & Kat led our first E1, Kate glided up effortlessly afterwards. A memorable day.

31st May – Wallowbarrow Crag, Duddon for some VS routes with Kate. Paul joined us for a couple of routes and led Kate up a HVS, good effort both of you!

30th May – Goat Crag, Eskdale. Spent a long day here with Kate. Fine sunny weather if a little windy at times. Finished off most of the routes on the crag. This is definitely my type of climbing. Brilliant day.

29th May – After a few hours in the tent waiting for the rain to ease, we packed up and headed back home to dry out. A few others were still going for it in the rain, but we’d had a good evening of routes yesterday so weren’t too bothered.

28th May - Headed over the Wrynose & Hardknott passes this afternoon for a wild camp below Goat Crag in Eskdale. What a brilliant spot, perfect views, solitude, and a lovely 60 metre Granite slab to play on! We set up camp did 3 routes and then settled down to food and brews whilst watching the sun go down over the Isle of Man, is there a finer way to end the day?

26th & 27th May – 2 action packed days of scrambling with Leigh from Newcastle. On Wednesday we did Stickle Ghyll, Tarn Crag, and Jacks Rake on Pavey Ark. We were witness to an unfortunate incident whilst on Jacks Rake involving another party and a dislocated joint. Mountain Rescue were quick to respond and soon. Hope all ended well.
On Thursday we headed towards Coniston and ascended Raven Crag in Yewdale and Long Crag above Coniston village. During the 2 days we enjoyed an assortment of Lakeland weather including: sunshine; rain; hail; cloud & mist; gale force winds, fantastic!

25th May – Wallowbarrow Crag with Kat. A fine day with loads of climbing including the delightful arête of Paradise.

24th May – A great day out in the sunshine with Roger. Scrambling up Stickle Ghyll, Tarn Crag & Jacks Rake to reach Pavey Ark. Awesome weather, great fun.
Evening spent in Borrowdale climbing with Dawn. Donkeys Ears & Little Chamonix. Yes I did the Borrowdale classic at last and we had the route to ourselves. Finished with stunning views over Derwent Water as the moon rose.

23rd May – Scrambling day in Langdale valley. Very hot today.

22nd May – Church Beck gorge scramble with a Stag party. Good wet fun.

19th May – Another evening spent instructing at Ambleside climbing wall with local youngsters working towards their Level 2 NICAS (National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme).

16th May – A grand day out in the stunning Langdale Pikes. After meeting Jackie & Jason in Ambleside, we headed into the Langdale valley. Our walk began up Stickle Ghyll and took us to below Pavey Ark. We then followed a path around the tarn and to the summit of Pavey. An easy traverse from here took us to the summit of Harrison Stickle. We enjoyed some great views and checked out Jacks Rake before descending back to Stickle tarn and the Stickle Barn car park.
Jackie & Jason then headed off to The Old Dungeon Ghyll for a post walk drink. I headed back home to meet my climbing partner for the evening. Me & Dawn made it to Raven Crag, Walthwaite in time for a nice Hard Severe 2 pitch climb.

15th May – Kate is running in the Fairfield fell race today. Wish I was that fit! I went to Wallowbarrow in the Duddon Valley with Gemma. We did a couple of long rock climbs and Gemma did her first Trad leads. It was busy at the crag so we decided to look for a quieter venue, Black Crag, Pike O’Blisco. After warming up on an easy V Diff on Long Scar with our ‘sacks on Gemma tackled a Severe route at Black Crag. After a bit of a stumble she whizzed up the route in fine style. We finished the day on Glass Clogs, a VS route.

14th May – Had arranged to climb with Kate & Becky, alas the weather was against us. We decided on a scramble in Langdale but a combination of heavy rain and loose rock warned us back to the pub for hot chocolate. The route will wait for us.

12th May – An evening spent instructing at Ambleside climbing wall. A group of local youngsters having gained their Level 1 NICAS (National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme) are now keen to further develop their skills and attain the Level 2 award.

9th May – A glorious day today. We’re heading for Scafell Pike with a father & son team from Southern Ireland. After a fun drive to Wasdale we set off via the Lingmell Col route. Conditions were favourable and we enjoyed stunning views at every turn. The summit of Scafell was actually quite quiet, so we relaxed here for a while and enjoyed some lunch. After descending to Lingmell Col, we then set our sights on Scafells quieter neighbour, Lingmell. From here we followed a broad and mostly grass covered ridge all the back to Wasdale. On the drive back, we couldn’t resist calling for refreshments at Santon Bridge. All in all, a grand day out.

8th May – A trip to the Peak district to climb Gritstone! Went to Alderman in the Chew valley area. It was pretty chilly with a stiff wind blowing. After we warmed up John got back into leading a route. We finished with the classic of the crag, ‘The Great Slab’ a 2 pitch Gritstone route, fabulous.

7th May – All day rock climbing at Wallerbarrow crag in the Duddon valley. Thought it was going to be cold and wet, it turned out to be warm and sunny, t-shirt weather!

6th May – Out with Jaqcui & Graham on Pike O’ Blisco. We enjoyed a mixture of activities today, walking, scrambling, and tried some climbing. The wind was blowing strong over the crags today so we decided it best to keep moving and scramble some more, exploring plenty of pathless terrain and visiting less frequented peaks. We stayed dry and enjoyed fine views of the Langdales & Coniston range.

5th May – A last minute booking this morning saw me meeting up with Esther from Canada. We scrambled on Raven Crag, Yewdale, finishing on the summit of Holme Fell allowed us unrivalled views of Coniston Water. Esther had enjoyed the route plenty and was up for more so we headed into Langdale valley for some Rock Climbing. Having already completed a course whilst out in Thailand, Esther was familiar with quite a few skills needed for climbing, we worked at developing these further whilst also enjoying the routes.

4th May – Castle Rock, Thirlmere with Ben. Time was at a premium so we made do with two routes today. We noticed some loose rock around, so be careful.

3rd May – Bank Holiday Monday and we’ve got a day off, so where to go rock climbing that won’t be crowded? Little How Crag high in the Coppermines valley. With stunning views over Levers Water and on to Coniston, this is idyllic. We had the whole mountainside to ourselves, just a big blue sky, Wheatears and rough rock for company.
This place is well worth the hour or so walk in. We’ll be back!

1st May – This morning brought lovely sunshine for a trip to Copt Howe in the Langdale valley with Fred & Christine. We climbed a good selection of routes on nice dry rock. From our belay ledge atop the crag, we enjoyed Lakelands finest views, Pavey Ark, Harrison Stickle, Pike O’Stickle and Bowfell took its hat off during the morning.

This afternoon brought a change in the weather with some quite heavy showers. Meeting Vasilis & Nancy, Stuart & Laura, we tactically decided to enjoy a brew at Bilbo’s Café in Ambleside, before heading to the crags for some rock climbing. With the rock at Copt Howe now well and truly soaked the climbing had become much harder. However, the views were atmospheric, the crag sheltered from the wind, and plenty of rock climbing was going on. We finished with a fine arête climb over to the right of the crag, in the wet this presents quite a challenge, perseverance brought its rewards, well done all.

27th April – A late start today, well, evening climbing actually. Headed to Upper Scout Crag, Langdale (an old favorite) with Dawn, who had been working hard all day in Patterdale. Managed a couple of routes before darkness set in and we retreated to the car.

26th April – Had a trip to Borrowdale today, Shepherds Crag. We planned on doing some climbs on Brown Slabs, however, it was really busy so after only 1 route we abandoned the idea. Walking back under the crags towards the Café, we counted 3 teams on Little Chamonix with enough rucksacks at the bottom to rival Blacks!
Kate treated me to Tea & cakes at the Lodore Farm Café, lovely. We then headed into Langdale and to Raven Crag, the one behind Chapel Stile. We had the place to ourselves, immaculate rock and great routes. I think we’ll be doing fewer trips to Borrowdale in future.

23rd April – Navigation training day with Lynn & Sam. We looked at pacing, orienteering the map, contours, features, bearings, setting the compass and walking on a bearing, amongst other things. We had great visibility and good weather. Found a splendid viewpoint near the summit of Great Knott too. A really nice day, staying off marked footpaths makes hillwalking so much nicer.

18th April: Due to take a group of Chinese bankers out on a fell walk. However, due to volcanic eruptions in Iceland and the grounding of all aircraft, this was cancelled at short notice so we went out climbing on Pike O'Blisco. Another great day, a bit cooler than of late.

17th April: Hutton Roof Crags with a father and son team from Liverpool. Lovely sunny weather and loads of climbing made for a great day out.

15th & 16th April: Out doing some multipitch climbing with Colin. We headed to Wallerbarrow in the Duddon valley and completed quite an array of routes, all pretty tiring and loads of fun.

9th April: Back in the UK and out in the Langdale valley taking a family from the Midlands on a rock climbing session at Copt Howe. We enjoyed superb weather & views, pefect dry rock too, a great morning.

3-8th April: Boarded a plane from Manchester to Malaga for a Sport climbing course in sunny El Chorro, Spain. We enjoyed rural surroundings for the duration, stunning scenery, quiet crags, impressive rock formations & wildlife. This was a breath of fresh air after the harsh winter experienced in the UK, 20 degrees most days and loads of sunshine, perfect for an introductory course of Sport climbing and what a place to learn. We ate tapas, mingled with the locals and did an impressive amount of climbing. Can't wait for the next trip!

The snows have all but gone from the Lake district peaks, although a little lingers on Scafell Pike & Helvellyn. So the rock shoes have been dusted off & rock climbing has begun in earnest. Long last the summer!

21st March – Raven crag, Langdale. We parked at the ODG pub, made a donation to Langdale & Ambleside mountain rescue and headed uphill to the crag. As the weather was undecided about what to do, we thought maybe Middlefell Buttress as it’s a nice easy climb. However, by the time we had geared up, the day was looking more promising, so we headed for Evening Wall, a 3 pitch Severe route on the main buttress. It did start to rain on us so we hurried to finish before the rock became really wet. Missing the normal descent route meant we had quite a long walk back. Later on today, Kate went out for a fell run over Loughrigg to Lily Tarn and back via Rydal, good effort.

20th March – back to Copt Howe, doing some work for another activity provider. A small group of youngsters from Oldham. Although the weather had been dismal in the morning, by lunchtime we were enjoying Lakeland at it’s finest. High swirling clouds, stunning scenery, a patchwork of blue sky.

19th March – Met up with Marina & Euan in Ambleside for a day of rock climbing around the Langdale valley. We started off (after coffee at Skelwith Bridge) at Long Scar, Wrynose, a fine single pitch venue and perfect for introducing people to rock climbing. We completed a few climbs here before deciding to head into the valley and out of the wind! We drove past the Old Dungeon Ghyll (ODG) pub on our way to Copt Howe crag where we completed quite a few more routes on perfect rock. All feeling a bit tired we headed to the Stickle Barn Tavern for Hot chocolate and whipped cream. Another great day.

14th March – I meet Paul & Lynn at the Low Wood Hotel, Windermere in the morning and we walked from the 3 shires stone to Pike O’ Blisco, then headed towards Crinkle Crags but the snow meant a deviation to Cold Pike instead. Fantastic views into the Langdale valley and Duddon bottoms. We did a bit of navigation work from Cold Pike, but nothing too technical.

13th March – we drove over the Wrynose Pass again today and back into the Duddon Valley to Wallerbarrow Farm, Seathwaite. We did 3 multipitch rock climbs on lovely rock at Wallerbarrow crag. Thomas (S), Agitation (VS), Digitation (VS). All great routes and we could have stayed for more but The Newfield Inn at Seathwaite beckoned us with warm mugs of tea and plates of freshly cooked chips.

12th March – I took Jenny out for a walk / scramble on Harter Fell in the stunningly beautiful Duddon Valley. We were blessed with good weather and fine views in all directions, the Scafells, Bowfell, Black Combe, the Isle of Man to name a few.

10th March – it was wet & windy in Nant Peris so we headed to Anglesey and Holyhead mountain. Here we polished off about half a dozen fine climbs on immaculate Quartzite rock. Warm sunshine, panoramic sea views, and it’s only March.
The following days were wet so we headed back home to Ambleside.

9th March – we ventured out of the Lakes heading for North Wales, Snowdonia actually, home to so many adventurous activities. Staying in the Llanberis Pass in the village of Nant Peris we had loads of rock climbs at our finger tips. First up was Skylon on Carreg Wasted, a fine Hard Severe.




A few words from some of our customers

Dear Mark, Kate and Anna
Firstly a very big thank you. We had a wonderful & very active holiday and a core part of that were the activities with you.
Thank you for taking us to some incredibly beautiful parts of the Lake District. Thank you for the additional information about e.g. the Roman Fort or the great pub lunches - that added even more to our day.
And finally you are excellent value for money, very caring and very professional So finally, thank you very very much.
Kind Regards,
Fionnuala, Kees and Benjamin

Mark,
Thanks for yesterday we all really enjoyed it.
It was certainly helpful to talk at length on the phone before the activities to understand what was involved and help us get the clothing right. I also felt reassured that it meant that you had a good understanding of our abilities and interests.
The instruction/guiding was excellent especially the way you engaged with the children and gave us lots of information as we went along including the geology and history of the region.
Juliet

Thanks again for the scrambling course. It was a fantastic experience and although I was apprehensive beforehand it has really improved my confidence in my own abilities and also dealing with heights.
Here's some feedback for you:
The info that was sent by email was just right. I also felt confident that any questions I had could be answered either on the end of a phone or face to face. You were very approachable and made me feel confident that I was paying for a high quality course.
As a one to one course I obviously benefitted fully from the course. I felt that it was well structured with room for flexibility in case of changes in weather or ability. You came across as very approachable and professional. Even when I was apprehensive about Jack's Rake, I found your honesty and realistic approach encouraging.
As far as the actual course was concerned, I think it was spot on and would happily recommend Mountain Journeys.
Leigh

Hi Mark.
Good trip home thanks and with a smile on my face as had a fantastic time yesterday. Scrambling day in Langdale
Roger (Manchester)

1) Pre walk information
Very good - not too little not too much. Nice to get an idea of what to expect.
2) Quality of guiding during walk
Excellent. Kat did a fantastic job. We all enjoyed her company and she looked after us really well.
Paul (Guildford)

Hi Mark,
Thanks again for a great trip out. Sorry for the delay in responding.
Instruction was clear and thorough. It was easy to place our trust in Mark and we also felt very comfortable asking questions.
Venue was beautiful and routes allowed for successful climbs with the right amount of challenge. Enjoyed having a combination of routes belayed from above and below.
Definitely wise to have a venue with a space for storing items during rainy weather.
Really enjoyed it! Will check out your website and keep you in mind for future trips out. Will also recommend you to friends :)
Kind regards,
Nancy and Vasilis (London)

Hi Mark,
Graham and I had a really good time on Thursday. Thank you for making our day so special.
The information we received about our trip beforehand was excellent and ensured that we were well prepared for the day ahead both in terms of equipment and planned activity/route.
The chosen venue - The Pike O’ Blisco was really good fun. Not somewhere I would have chosen by myself, however, we will definitely be going back after you have introduced us to this fantastic place and look forward to playing on the rocks again and trying out a few of the other routes you pointed out.
Thanks to your support and encouragement, I will most certainly be trying to get some more scrambling done in the near future.
Jacqui & Graham (Stockport)

Just a quick note Mark to say thank you once more for the climbing session on Friday morning. You had a great manner with and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend your services to friends and family. I would enjoy doing this myself and think it highly likely that we will be renewing our acquaintance on future visits.
SE ( Midlands ) - Rock climbing session, Langdale

I was amazed at how well you organised it all. This, as well as doing loads of climbs to improve my skill, were my aims and were definitely met. I thought the course was superb value for money. I achieved exactly what I wanted to. I wish I could think of something for you to improve on in the future, but I really can't. I would definitely recommend this trip to anyone in the future who is looking to learn sport climbing. Thanks again for an amazing time in El Chorro. I really did love it.
AJ ( Cumbria ) - Sport climbing in El Chorro

Just a quick note of thanks for you guiding over the weekend! Without your assistance, I don’t think we would have made it up Scafell Pike safely, as the other group had found out!
CB (London)

Many thanks for taking us climbing last Friday – both of us thoroughly enjoyed the day and it was great to be back on a rock face after so long. We will certainly be in touch if and when we return to the Lake District. Given how much we enjoyed the trip, I hope it will be soon. Good luck with your guiding/instructing. We will certainly spread the word to any friends that head up your way. It was lovely to meet you and many thanks again for a great day. Best wishes,
MM (London)

Just emailing to say thank you, we had a really good day (except maybe getting the minibus trapped on a hill in the snow) Mark was really good with the group, and they all enjoyed it and learnt something. It has also given me a good point to continue teaching them further navigation as they now all have the basics. Many thanks .
BD (Keele)

My El Chorro trip was fantastic, climbed a 6a+ on my second day, so I am very chuffed. My instructor was Mark Eddy, nice guy very safety conscious, and we spent ages everyday on the crag, I highly recommend him. ps his rates were by far the most reasonable I had found.
HP (Oxford)




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