If you are new to mountain climbing, the thought of steeper or rockier terrains may be a little daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. In this article, we have curated a list of some of Britain’s best ranges and peaks for all abilities.
You don’t have to climb the highest points to feel accomplished after a day of climbing. In the UK, there are plenty of breathtaking views on some of the most accessible routes.
Our guide includes some of the best and simplest mountains and peaks in the UK for novices, including Pen Y Fan, Cat Bells in the Lake District, Snowdon in Wales, and more.
Pen Y Fan, Brecon Beacons
Pen Y Fan, in the Brecon Beacons, is a great mountain for beginners and despite its height of 886m, it is not as difficult to reach the summit as one would think. It is very accessible from the car park and has a well-tread track which winds its way up to the peak. However, as with any mountain, the weather can make things more dangerous. It is important to check the weather forecast before your trek and prepare your clothing and kit accordingly, remembering to wear supportive and sturdy footwear.
Sugar Loaf, Monmouthshire
At a summit of 596m, Sugar Loaf is a great climb for all hikers. Surrounded by mountains, hills and woodland, this route has a bit of everything for everyone. Rising above Abergavenny, the peak has soft slopes on all sides, which is great if you want a less intense hike. If you are wanting the route to be slightly longer, the south is of popular interest. If you take the longer route, you can ascend the peak directly from the town.
Snowdon, Gwynedd
The thought of Snowdon may be daunting to beginners. With a summit of 1,085m, Snowdon is the tallest mountain in England and Wales. However, this does not mean you cannot complete one of the routes. There are 8 different paths you can take to reach the top, so doing a little bit of research beforehand will help you prepare for the hike.
Thousands of walkers visit Snowdon every year, many arriving at the early hours of the morning to catch the breathtaking views at sunrise.
Yes Tor, Devon
Yes Tor, Dartmoor’s second-highest peak, offers a worthy target for visitors looking to tackle their first proper mountain hike. Although it is a little lower, standing at 619m, than High Willhays, its buttress is arguably the more striking of the two. Discover the Dartmoor Tors on a four mile walk which has provided inspiration for many of Britain’s authors and poets, such as Agatha Christie and Arthur Conan Doyle.
Cat Bells, Cumbria
Cumbria is known for its natural beauty and stunning hikes. At just 451m, Cat Bells is a modest summit for the Lake District’s standards but is still a very popular route from beginners to advanced hikers. Be prepared for steep areas during the hike, however, this is well worth it once you see the spectacular views of Derwentwater and Skiddaw.
Being prepared for mountaineering and climbing
Whether you regularly engage in mountain climbing or hillwalking as a hobby or as a job, or you are starting off, having financial protection may be an option for that extra peace of mind. Summit Financial Services is a specialist insurance provider which offers financial protection for mountaineers and rock climbers. Summit Financial Services offer life insurance, critical illness insurance, and income protection at the best prices with their assistance. Having the appropriate financial protection is crucial because it ensures that you, your loved ones, and your house are safeguarded in case something goes wrong.
