All roads lead to roam: A Timeline of Access Legislation in the UK

Access to wild landscapes in the UK has been restricted by historical enclosure acts, but there is a growing demand for expanded access to nature. The fight for freedom to roam has seen notable moments, such as the Kinder Scout Mass Trespass of 1932 and the Winter Hill Trespass of 1896, ultimately leading to legislation like the National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act 1949 and the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000. The Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 and the Wildlife and Natural Environment (Scotland) Act 2011 have further refined public access rights in Scotland. Looking ahead, there is potential for future legislative action to strengthen and expand access rights, aligning with the increased recognition of the importance of nature for physical and mental well-being. However, challenges from urbanization and environmental degradation persist, necessitating a multifaceted approach for sustainable management of natural resources.

Be Mountain Ready: A Framework for Summer Mountain Leadership

Introduction Earlier this year I finally made it to my Winter ML Training with Sandy Paterson’s great team at Scotch on the rocks in the Cairngorms. One of the tools that they introduced me to, in depth, was the decision making process developed at SAIS called Be Avalanche Aware. It struck me as an easy

Tracing the Roots of “Wales” and “Cymru”

Discover the linguistic tapestry of “Wales” and “Cymru” as we delve into their etymological origins. Uncover the historical and cultural significance behind these terms, tracing their roots from ancient languages to modern-day identities. Gain valuable insights into Welsh heritage and identity through this exploration of language and history. Join us on a journey of discovery as we unravel the mysteries of “Wales” and “Cymru” and unlock the key to understanding their rich cultural heritage.

Feeding The Soul Through Wild Camping

The practice of wild camping lies a sacred covenant with nature – a commitment to preserve and protect the sanctity of the wild places that nourish our spirits. Let us embrace the ethos of Leave No Trace, ensuring that our passage through the landscape leaves it as pristine and unspoiled as we found it.

William Naismith: Beyond the Rule – A Legacy Carved in Mountain Rock

William Wilson Naismith (1856-1935) transcends the single formula that bears his name. While undeniably influential, his life as a Scottish mountaineer, accountant, and church elder reveals a multifaceted individual whose contributions extend far beyond a simple time estimation tool. This post delves into his personal and professional spheres, offering a glimpse into the man who shaped both climbing culture and practical navigation techniques.

Elevating Your Navigation Game with the Perfect Blend of Tradition and Technology

Navigation is a fundamental skill for any mountain leader in the UK. It is the ability to plan and execute a route safely and efficiently, taking into account the terrain, weather conditions, and other factors. Navigating through the challenging terrain of the United Kingdom’s mountains requires a combination of skills, knowledge, and preparation. Great mountain

Navigating Nature’s Classroom: The Unique Contributions of Mountain Leaders

Mountain leading goes beyond the mere technical skills of navigation and route planning, acknowledging that the outdoor experience is a multi-faceted journey that encompasses environmental stewardship, group dynamics, education, and leadership. It emphasizes the synergy of these components to create a well-rounded and transformative adventure for participants.

What is a Mountain Leader?

I was reading Mike Raine’s excellent book about a practical approach to Mountain Leading and realised that there is no definition of what a Mountain Leader is. This is not to have a go at Mike and his fantastic book but rather to illustrate that even a book titled “The Mountain Leader: A Practical Manual”

The Mabinogi story of Pwyll and Arawn

Welsh legend that can be used by Mountain Leaders to inspire, the Mabinogion consists of eleven stories from early Welsh literature that blend Celtic myths, folklore, traditions, and history. These tales likely have even older origins, passed down orally through generations by early Welsh bards. This is one of their stories of Pwyll and Arawn.

Hiking Through History: The Tale of The Watkin Path

The Watkin Path stands as a prominent trail in the Snowdonia region of Wales, specifically designed to provide access to the summit of Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales. Its origins are rooted in the late 19th century when Edward Watkin, a prominent British railway entrepreneur and politician, embarked on an ambitious venture to promote