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Lead Climbing UK








    Learn to Lead Climb

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    Smaller group sizes

    Putting local communities first

    Your safety is our number one focus

    Sustainable travel

    Amazing experiences at affordable prices

    The Course

    During this course we aim to equip you with the skills and knowledge to allow you to make the transition from seconding to competently leading appropriate single pitch routes.

    During the course we will aim to cover the following:

    • Choosing an outdoor climbing venue and selecting suitable routes.
    • Identifying hazards and staying safe whilst lead climbing.
    • How and when to place protection.
    • Dealing with fear and deploying coping strategies.
    • What to do when you reach the top.
    • Bringing up your second and removing your gear.

    This is a hands-on course and you can expect to get lots of climbing done

    Is This Course For You?

    If you are competent at climbing as a second and want to learn the skills to place your own gear and lead single pitch climbs then this course is for you.

    All our courses are tailor made to your needs, so we don’t have a set itinerary.

    The main areas we work in are the Peak District, North Yorkshire and the Dales and the Lake District but we are happy to travel further afield to work with you to help you achieve your aims.

    Venues will be selected in discussion with you so that you can get the most out of your time with us.

    Contact us to find out more.

    All our courses are tailor made to your needs, so it doesn’t matter if you are completely new to lead climbing or already have some knowledge, you’ll learn plenty and grow in confidence and ability.

    Choose from a single day up to a full week depending on how much time you have available.

    £250 per day – maximum of 2 people.

    We can run this course at any time of year on dates to suit you.

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    Included in the price of this trip

    • Use of technical equipment such as ropes & rack etc. (you are welcome to bring your own gear if you have it)
    • Professional instruction and coaching by a fully qualified AMI member

    Not included

    • Personal clothing and equipment - see our kit list
    • Lunch, food or snacks
    • Drinks
    • Travel to the course venue

    Essential Clothing & Equipment

    • Climbing Harness - Standard

      These are available to hire for a small fee – please enquire.

    • Climbing Helmet

      You only have one head - best to look after it. Make sure you can wear a beanie/woolly hat under your climbing helmet

    • Climbing Shoes

      These are not essential and you could wear trainers, however, a pair of well fitting climbing shoes will improve your performance and allow you to get the most out of your course.

    • Clothing

      Climbing venues can often be exposed and windy so please make sure you bring sufficient layers to keep warm. Clothing worn for climbing should not restrict your movement. We suggest a long-sleeved base layer with a t-shirt and fleece layer as a minimum. Something quick drying for the legs - not jeans or heavy tracksuit bottoms.

    • Footwear

      Please make sure you have suitable footwear for walking into any climbing venues. For venues close to the road, a pair of trainers, trekking or approach shoes will normally suffice. If the venue is further afield or a mountain crag then a lightweight pair of walking boots or a good approach shoe will be better – please ask in advance if you are not sure.

    • Gloves

      A lightweight windproof pair of gloves for wearing on a daily basis as required.

    • Personal First Aid Kit

      This should include suncream, lip balm, blister plasters (compeed), plasters, painkillers and any prescription medicines, insect repellant etc.

    • Sunglasses

      For general eye protection, wearing whilst trekking or on glaciers if applicable to your trip – for wearing on glaciers sunglasses need to be Category 4 and be close fitting or have side protection.

    • Warm Layer

      This can be a fleece jumper, fleece jacket or lightweight duvet/insulated jacket.

    • Waterproof Jacket

      Hard shell jacket ideally this will be waterproof and breathable (GoreTex or equivalent) and it will have a hood.

    • Waterproof Trousers

      Ideally they should be windproof and breathable (Gore Tex or equivalent) and with full or ¾ length side zips.

    • Woolly hat

      To keep your head warm - Ideally a hat that will cover your ears too and fit under a climbing helmet.

    Optional Clothing & Equipment

    • Camera

      Make sure you have spare batteries or the means to re-charge.

    • Mobile Phone

      You may want to use you phone as a camera. On our overseas trips signal is often limited or non-existent so making calls or sending texts may not be possible - see FAQs for trip specific info.

    • Small Stainless Steel Flask

      Useful for hot drinks during the day/night

    Paperwork

    • Booking Confirmation

      This will be sent to you aproximately 10 days before departure

    Carbon Footprint

    We are yet to determine the average CO2 emissions per person for our Learn to Lead Climb Course.

    What are we doing about it

    Trekking and mountaineering trips such as this are low carbon in comparison to other forms of travel and activities. That said though, we are working hard to understand exactly what the carbon emissions are for all our products. By the end of 2024 we hope to have measured everything we do and have a good understanding of all the individual carbon footprints. This will then act as a starting point for us to take action to reduce our emissions to as low as reasonably practicable and drive towards net zero.

    FAQs

    No, unfortunately we don’t currently provide equipment for hire but can recommend Expedition Kit Hire.

    A deposit of 25% of the total cost of the trip/course is payable at the time of booking and the balance is due 8 weeks before the departure date. If the booking takes place less than 8 weeks before departure, then the full amount is due at the time of booking. If you would like to discuss payment options, then please get in touch.

    A comprehensive list of clothing and equipment required for your trip can be found by visiting the ‘Kit List” tab on the relevant experience.

    Have you ever dreamed of scaling awesome Himalayan peaks and trekking through rugged mountain landscapes?  Well, Monkey Mountaineering is your gateway to adventure, connecting fearless adventurers with unforgettable experiences in some of the world’s most stunning locations.  But what exactly is Monkey Mountaineering, and what makes it unique?

    A Passion for Adventure

    At its core, Monkey Mountaineering is about creating life-changing journeys for explorers who want more than just a typical holiday.  Founded by British Army veteran Sam Marshall, Monkey Mountaineering brings a legacy of discipline, resilience, and expertise to every expedition.  Specialising in small group, mountain-based adventure travel, we offer expertly crafted itineraries combining the thrill of outdoor activities with cultural immersion and respect for the environment.  Whether it’s mountaineering or trekking, our trips are designed to challenge and inspire.

    Our Mission

    Our mission is simple:  to provide safe, sustainable, and unforgettable adventure experiences that promote a deep connection with nature and local communities.  Every expedition is designed around three key principles:

    • Safety First: The safety of our customers is our top priority.  Our guides are highly trained, and every trip is planned with comprehensive risk assessments and emergency procedures.
    • Sustainability: We are committed to leaving no trace.  We are in the process of aligning our operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs), and we are actively working to reduce our carbon footprint.
    • Community Connection: Adventure isn’t just about the landscapes; it’s about the people.  We use local guides and support agencies, source local produce, and strive to ensure that our trips contribute positively to the regions we visit.

    What We Offer

    Monkey Mountaineering offers a variety of trips tailored to different skill levels, interests, and destinations.  Here’s a peek at what you can expect:

    • Mountaineering Adventures: Scale iconic peaks with our expert-led climbing expeditions.
    • Trekking Journeys: Explore remote trails, from lush mountain forests to rugged alpine deserts, and witness the beauty of the great outdoors.
    • Custom and Private Trips: Looking for something unique? We’ll work with you to design a personalized adventure that meets your goals and interests.
    • UK Adventures and Skills Training: Want to learn the skills to have your own adventures?  We offer all levels of mountain-based skills training for beginners and seasoned adventurers as well as UK based guiding.

    Why Choose Monkey Mountaineering?

    We’re not just another adventure travel company.  Here’s what sets us apart:

    • Veteran Expertise: Founded by a British Army Veteran, we bring unparalleled leadership, problem-solving, and operational excellence to every expedition.
    • Commitment to Standards: We strive to achieve the highest industry standards, complying with the Package Travel Regulations and aligning to British Standard 8848, ensuring that your trip is safe, ethical, and well-organised.
    • Focus on Sustainability: From eco-friendly practices to supporting local economies, we make responsible travel a priority.
    • Personalized Service: From your first inquiry to post-trip follow-ups, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

    Join Us on an Adventure

    Monkey Mountaineering isn’t just about reaching summits; it’s about the journey, the camaraderie, and the stories you take home.  Whether you’re an experienced mountaineer or a first-time adventurer, we invite you to explore the world with us.  Unleash your inner explorer and let’s make your adventure dreams a reality.

    Ready to take the leap? Contact us today to find your next great adventure!

    Please refer to our Booking Conditions which can be found here. Alternatively, please feel free to contact a member of the team.

    Sam Marshall:  The Man Behind Monkey Mountaineering

    Every great adventure company has a story, and at the heart of Monkey Mountaineering is Sam Marshall, a man with an unrelenting passion for the mountains.  As a British Army Veteran, Sam has taken the skills forged in hostile and unforgiving operational environments and applied them to leading unforgettable climbing and trekking expeditions.  His journey from soldier to adventurer is the cornerstone of Monkey Mountaineering’s mission.

    A Life of Service and Adventure

    Sam’s love for the mountains began during his years in the British Army.  As a soldier, he embraced the challenges of operating in extreme environments, learning the importance of teamwork, leadership, and meticulous planning.  These experiences not only shaped his character but also ignited a lifelong passion for exploration and the great outdoors.

    After leaving the military, Sam set his sights on a new mission:  sharing the transformative power of mountain adventures with others.  Combining his military expertise with his love of mountaineering, he founded Monkey Mountaineering to create challenging, inspiring, and safe adventures for climbers and trekkers of all skill levels.

    The Vision Behind Monkey Mountaineering

    For Sam, Monkey Mountaineering is more than a business, it’s a way of life.  Every expedition is designed with the same precision and care that defined his military career.  Safety is always paramount, and Sam ensures that every trip is planned and executed in line with the guidance laid down in British Standard 8848.

    But Sam’s vision goes further.  He believes that adventure has the power to change lives, build resilience, and to foster connections with nature and with others.  His goal is to create experiences that not only challenge participants physically but also leave a lasting emotional and spiritual impact.  Monkey Mountaineering exists to help you unleash your inner explorer and discover the extraordinary within yourself.

    What Sets Sam Apart

    Sam’s military background gives him a unique edge in the adventure travel industry.  His expertise in mountaineering, risk management, leadership, and problem-solving ensures that every expedition runs smoothly, even in the face of unexpected challenges.  Beyond his technical skills, Sam’s warmth and genuine passion for helping others shine through in every interaction.  Whether he’s leading a climb, sharing stories around a campfire, or guiding a first-time trekker, Sam’s dedication to his craft is evident.

    A Commitment to Sustainability and Community

    Deeply committed to responsible travel, under Sam’s leadership, Monkey Mountaineering is aligning its operations with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, ensuring that every adventure leaves a positive impact on the environment and local communities.  From following the leave no trace principle to working with local guides, Sam’s approach is rooted in respect and sustainability.

    Join Sam on Your Next Adventure

    When you choose Monkey Mountaineering, you’re not just booking a trip, you’re joining a legacy of adventure led by a man who understands the transformative power of the mountains.  With Sam Marshall at the helm, every expedition is an opportunity to challenge yourself, connect with nature, and create unforgettable memories.

    Ready to take the first step?  Join Sam and the Monkey Mountaineering team on your next great adventure and unleash your inner explorer!

    Look for more

    Bespoke experiences

    Can’t see what you are looking for? All our trips can be customised to meet your needs so, if you need bespoke dates, want to add extra days, or modify the itinerary then please just let us know – we will be happy to help.

    Contact us