OUR BEST UK LOCATIONS FOR WINTER MOUNTAINEERING

Temperatures are falling and the colder months are coming. For us, that means one thing – time to start dreaming up our winter adventures. And while for many of us that means planning European adventures we've actaully got plenty on home turf to enjoy!

Winter can do incredible things to Britain’s mountains, with the coating of snow turning our hills into awesome Alpine-like spectacles. From gentle ridge scrambles to multi-day winter epics that are steeped in history, trust us - there’s endless potential. Make no mistake though, British mountains in winter are tough – that’s why we love them - but with the right gear and skills coupled with an adventurous approach and a healthy dose of respect for these challenging environments, this winter you can find yourself atop a UK peak feeling as exhilarated as if you were high in the Alps on a perfect day.

Ready to test your limits? We’ve picked out a few of the most spectacular areas of the UK to seek out and kick off your winter season in style.

Scotland stands as the premier destination for winter mountaineering in the UK, attracting climbers and mountaineers from around the globe. Its rugged landscapes and challenging routes offer some of the most demanding and rewarding experiences for winter adventurers.

• Renowned as the ultimate test for experienced mountaineers.
• Features an epic 3000m of ascent stretched along a 10km narrow and exposed ridge.
• Demands technical skill, endurance, and a head for heights, making it one of the most iconic winter mountaineering routes in the UK.

• Home to the dramatic and imposing Beinn Eighe range.
• Offers a combination of physical challenge and breathtaking scenery.
• Known for its rugged terrain and spectacular views, providing a true wilderness experience. 

• The highest Munro in the Cairngorms, standing as a major winter mountaineering objective.
• In the right conditions, reaching the summit rewards climbers with a 360-degree panorama of snowy peaks rising like islands from a sea of cloud.
• A classic route combining altitude, exposure, and stunning vistas.

• Scotland’s greatest winter mountain and a must for any winter mountaineer.
• Offers a wide range of routes, from highly technical climbs to more straightforward terrain.
• Known for its spectacular scenery and challenging conditions, testing climbers’ skills and endurance.

• Diverse terrain: From exposed ridges to vast mountain ranges.
• World-class challenges: Attracts international climbers seeking demanding routes.
• Stunning landscapes: Snow-covered peaks, dramatic ridges, and panoramic views.
• Varied difficulty: Suitable for expert mountaineers looking for technical climbs and those seeking classic winter ascents.

Scotland’s winter mountaineering scene offers unmatched adventure and beauty, making it the jewel in the crown of UK winter climbing.

The Lake District offers a spectacular alternative to Scotland for winter mountaineering, with a diverse range of climbing and trekking experiences set against some of England’s most dramatic landscapes. Ignoring this region means missing out on some of the UK’s most iconic winter adventures.

• The combination of Swirall Edge and Striding Edge forms a dramatic circuit around Red Tarn, making it a climber’s playground in winter.
• This route is one of the most iconic winter traverses in the UK, offering exposed ridges, technical sections, and breathtaking views.
• Red Tarn face provides challenging conditions and a true sense of adventure for experienced winter mountaineers.

• Situated at the northeast end of the Scafell range, Great End is widely regarded as one of England’s premier winter climbing locations.
• The area features a variety of classic winter routes, with steep faces and gullies that test both skill and stamina.
• A must-visit for climbers seeking a serious challenge outside Scotland.

• For those looking for a less intense but equally rewarding winter outing, High Rigg and Latrigg are excellent options.
• Both are accessible within a couple of hours’ trek from Keswick.
• On clear days, these fells offer stunning snowy panoramas of Derwentwater, Borrowdale, and the central Lake District fells.

• Iconic ridges: Swirall Edge and Striding Edge on Helvellyn.
• Premier climbing: Great End in the Scafell range.
• Accessible winter walks: High Rigg and Latrigg for breathtaking views.
• Diverse experiences: From technical mountaineering to scenic winter treks.

The Lake District delivers majestic winter routes, challenging climbs, and sublime views, making it an essential destination for anyone seeking UK winter mountaineering adventures.

Snowdonia offers a true winter mountaineering experience in Wales, with conditions that can be unpredictable but, when favorable, deliver some of the most exhilarating days out in the UK mountains. Under clear skies and fresh snow, Snowdonia transforms into a landscape of mixed climbs, icy formations, and dramatic ridges, providing a real sense of wilderness and adventure.

• Snowdon, Glyderau, and Carneddau: These mountain areas give you the impression of being in genuine high mountains. In cold, snowy conditions, they demand respect and solid winter skills.
  • Offer a mix of steep climbs, ice-falls, and exposed ridges.
  • The terrain can be serious—always check weather and avalanche forecasts before heading out.
• Snowdon Horseshoe and Crib Goch: For experienced winter mountaineers, this is one of the UK’s most challenging and rewarding big days out.
  • The route traverses narrow, exposed ridges and requires technical ability and confidence in winter conditions.
  • Crib Goch is especially notorious for its knife-edge arête, which becomes even more committing under snow and ice.
• Moel Eilio: If you’re seeking a less technical but still spectacular winter outing, Moel Eilio is a perfect choice.
  • The summit offers panoramic views across Anglesey and the Snowdon Massif.
  • Ideal for those wanting a rewarding winter walk without the exposure and technicality of the higher ridges.

• Dramatic mixed climbs and beautiful ice-falls.
• Iconic routes like the Snowdon Horseshoe and Crib Goch for advanced mountaineers.
• Accessible summits like Moel Eilio for less technical, scenic winter days.
• Genuine sense of wilderness and adventure in the heart of Wales.

When the Welsh winter weather aligns, Snowdonia becomes a genuine winter wonderland, offering everything from challenging technical routes to breathtaking, snowy vistas.

It’s safe to say this winter in the UK you can find some seriously sought after and challenging adventures. Itching to take it on? The most experienced mountaineers know you need to be equipped with the right skills, experience, and gear to make sure you stay safe whilst chasing the thrills. If you’re eager to get out there but are taking your first steps into winter mountaineering, it’s a great idea to join a club or take a winter skills course. There are more than 300 climbing, hill walking and mountaineering clubs affiliated to our partners at the BMC where you can learn from others and gain experience. Alternatively you can hire a guide through the Association of Mountaineering Instructors or the British Mountain Guides. It’s a great way to develop your skills and gain confidence to be able to safely take on these inspiring winter environments. 

Got a particular winter route in mind? Visit us in-store or book an appointment with our experts for tailored gear advice and fitting to help you get the most out of every minute out there.