BMSCMC

Big Shakeout Festival
2024-09-27 - 2024-09-29 | Scotland
Information

The Big Shakeout is a fun and family-friendly outdoor festival in the heart of the Peak District. Will and I have been going almost yearly since 2012, and it has never disappointed us to date. Fancy joining us and a few friendly faces from the club this year? There are plenty of activities on site and courses (some for an additional fee) that you might want to sign up to at the weekend, in case you don’t feel up for climbing. We have tried caving, outdoor photography, axe throwing, white water rafting in the past, just to mention a few great options. In the evening there is normally fab live music, outdoor films, campfire and adventure talks – what’s not to like?

Ticket prices are £99/person for the weekend (includes camping, t-shirt and a range of on-site activities, plus £15 for camping or £50 for camper vans. Slightly cheaper tickets available for families (up to 5 people for £269) or groups of 4 (£349), so it might be worth teaming up. Do try to book early if you’re keen as they frequently sell out.

Link to the website for tickets and more info: https://alpkit.com/pages/bigshakeout

Services
There is toilet blocks, washing up facilities, etc.

Accommodation
We will camp on site, which is the most budget friendly option. If you book early, there might still be spaces at the bunkhouse or in one of the teepees on site.

Food

Think along the lines of festival food… there are normally 4-5 different caterers you can pick from, or bring your own which you can cook on a camping stove.

Transport
You need a car to get there really. There might be lift sharing options for those who travel from down south, just get in touch with Will or I.

Itinerary
We are planning to arrive on Friday evening (27th Sept) to pitch up our tent, then will head out on Saturday and Sunday to climb wherever it looks good on the day. We’ll head back home on Sunday evening (29th Sept).

Dates
27-29 September 2024

Location
Thornbridge Outdoors

Organiser

Lilla Beaumont

horvath.lilla@hotmail.com
07807531467

Walking the South West Coast Path around Baggy Point
2024-10-12 - 2024-10-13 | Scotland
InformationAndrew and Jim are planning to walk another section of the South West Coast Path. Join us for the walk or climb at Baggy Point then join us in the pub at the end of the day…
ServicesThe campsite and the village, Mortehoe, have some services but no cash machine. Probably best to be prepared… more eateries and some shops in Woolacombe. More services still in Barnstable on the road in.
Accommodation
Camping at North Morte Farm in Mortehoe, just above Woolacoombe… A very reasonably priced and clean campsite come very recommended. Convenient for Baggy Point climbing and the pub too. Link to the website https://www.northmortefarm.co.uk/
Food
There are enough places to eat in the evening including the admirable https://www.shipaground.co.uk/
TransportCar is the best… There is a train station at Barnstable and limited local bus services to the coast…
ItineraryAndrew and Jim plan to arrive Saturday morning and walk a section of the SW Coastal path with a plan to see Baggy Point. If climbers are joining us, then we will make it a mission to take some photos. And then a table in the pub on Saturday evening.
Dates
Arrive Saturday 12th October 2024 at the campsite and then head out for a walk. Plans to drive home Sunday 13th October, in the morning.
Organiser
Andrew and Jim

End of the Gritstone Season December 2024
2024-12-07 - 2024-12-08 | Peak District, S32 1BR, United Kingdom
Information
Join Jim and Jake for a last chance before the long wait til Gritstone kicks off again… It’s a while so get it in while you can. We will pick a venue to meet Saturday, dependent on weather and then climb Saturday. Stay over at Ilam YHA and then travel Sunday… The Peak is good for walking for those who don’t want to climb…

Services: Ashbourne is the big smoke a few miles away… food and banks available. The hostel has a members’ kitchen and a serving kitchen that provides dinner and breakfast.

Accommodation: Ilam Hall YHA… https://www.yha.org.uk/hostel/yha-ilam-hall Currently space for £16:00 per person… shared room.

Food: Probably eat at the hostel Saturday night and Sunday morning…

Transport: You will need a car, or at least space in one… Depends where we are climbing… Probably the Eastern Grit edges, so aim for Hathersage, trains from Sheffield and Manchester, and get in touch early and we will try to arrange a place in a car. Otherwise, meet you at the crag.

Dates: Arrive at 08:30am at the crag, Saturday 7th December 2024 and climb for the day. Depart am on Sunday 8th December 2024.

Organiser: Jim McCall

Location
Ilam Hall YHA

Organiser
Jim McCall

Start of the Gritstone Season trip January 2025
2025-01-24 - 2025-01-26 | Peak District, S32 1BR, United Kingdom
Information
Now that January has arrived, the Gritstone season is kicking off again and a weekend visit is on the cards… bouldering and trad, most likely on the Eastern Gritstone edges… and hill walking and possible sport on limestone to cater for wider tastes…

Services
Cash machines and shops at Hathersage.

Accommodation
Ilam Hall YHA has plenty of space at the moment… https://www.yha.org.uk/hostel/yha-ilam-hall

Food
Plenty of shops to buy breakfast and lunch… The YHA has a members’ kitchen and a canteen so bring your own or buy cheap hostel food.

Transport
Car is best… get in touch with Jim if you need a lift and we will see what we can do. Trains to Hathersage from Sheffield and Manchester.

Itinerary
We will check the weather the day before and decide on which crag to go to. This will be shared on the WhatsApp chat for the trip.

Dates
24th -26th January 2025

Location
Ilam Hall YHA… Climbing on the Eastern Gritstone edges.

Organiser

Jim McCall

Scottish Winter - Ben Nevis and Glen Coe February 2025
2025-02-15 - 2025-02-19 | Glen Coe, PH33 6ST, United Kingdom
Information
Join us again for another trip North… returning to Glen Nevis with views to climb on the Ben and in Glen Coe. Whilst Scottish winter is always serious, there can be options for introduction into this discipline… Get in touch with Jim early as he may be able to lend you some ice axes.

Services
Fort William offers all required services including food, cash and kit (including kit hire if you get in touch early enough – most gear shops will rent out crampons and ice axes).

Accommodation
SYHA Glen Nevis… we stayed here last year and it was recently refurbished… and very comfortable. https://www.hostellingscotland.org.uk/hostels/glen-nevis/

Food
Plenty of shops to buy breakfast and lunch… The SYHA has a members’ kitchen and a canteen that provides breakfast only. Bring your own or we may visit a pub…

Transport
Car is best… get in touch with Jim if you need a lift and we will see what we can do. Trains to Fort William are frequent from England.

Itinerary
It will all depend on weather and avalanche conditions but the dream is to climb on the north face of the Ben… No II Gully being a good introduction to that whole arena. Plenty to go at if conditions are good.
Dates
Saturday 15th -Wednesday 19th February 2025

Location
Fort William and SHYA Glen Nevis

Organiser

Jim McCall

AGM 2025 in the Peak District
2025-03-21 - 2025-03-23 | Peak District, S32 1BR, United Kingdom
Information
These Clubs don’t run themselves you know… Bouldering, trad, sport and hill walking all available within a stone’s throw. Join us for a weekend of climbing, a chat about the direction of the Club and then all you can eat and drink in the pub afterwards.

Services
Cash machines and shops at Hathersage. Plenty of shops on the road in to the cottage. We will arrange someone to organise the catering so expect to contribute for dinner Friday night, breakfast and lunch Saturday (we plan to go to the pub Saturday night) and then breakfast Sunday. We will be in touch about this.

Accommodation
One of the best bunkhouses in the Peak… bring a sleeping bag as the bunkroom provide mattress bunks only… There is not a lot of privacy as it is one shared room of bunkbeds… There is hot running water and a flush toilet and a shower, a lounge with heater, and the kitchen, LINK HERE The Club had a couple of AGMs here prior to Covid and it is good to contribute to the Derbyshire Pennine Club again… We have booked the hut out for two nights. The price is now £12.00 a night so £24.00 for two nights’ accommodation (no single night requests accepted and no refunds). Food contributions will be an additional £15-18.00… Please Contact Jim as soon as possible to book your space as this will probably be oversubscribed.

Food
Plenty of shops to buy snacks… but the Club will cater for all. We will ask for a contribution (£15.00 -£18.00) and provide food for the weekend… we will be in touch about dietary requirements and preferences… The kitchen is quite basic and it is not that practical for everyone to cook for themselves… the shared option is the only way it all works. Jim will arrange the group booking at the Moon for Saturday night.

Transport
Car is best… get in touch with Jim if you need a lift and we will see what we can do. Trains to Hathersage from Sheffield and Manchester.

Itinerary
We will check the weather the day before and decide on which crags to go to. This will be shared on the WhatsApp chat for the trip. Meet up at the hut Friday evening 21.03.2025. Climb Saturday and meet up at 19:00 for (what is customarily) a short AGM before the walk over the road for dinner at the Moon. Climb Sunday but please expect to spend 30 minutes tidying up the hut on Sunday morning. Please factor this into your Sunday morning and do not expect to leave before we have left the hut in good order.

Dates
Friday 21st – Sunday 23rd March 2025.

Location
Carlswalk Cottage, Stoney Middleton.

Organiser

Jim McCall

Dartmoor Trad, Bouldering & wild camping
2025-04-12 - 2025-04-13 | Dartmoor, Dartmoor National Park, United Kingdom
Meet up Saturday morning at 09:00 at Houndtour. Spend the morning trad climbing and bouldering.
Services:
Bovey Tracey has banks and shops and is a convenient stop off on the way over the Moors… Bovey is the self-appointed ‘Gateway of the Moors’ and will provide all the necessaries…
Accommodation:
Some of those in the South West may treat this as an extended day trip but for those that want to stay over… We are planning to bivvy overnight Saturday. The National Park normally publishes a map to wild camping and local restrictions, including camping 100m from the road and not in sight of any buildings.
Food:
Better bring your own and be self-sufficient but pub options are available.
Transport:
Cars is the best plan. Public transport doesn’t really exist on the moors.

The Slate Quarries
2025-05-09 - 2025-05-11 | YHA Llanberis, Llwyn Celyn, Llanberis, Caernarfon, Gwynedd, LL55 4SR, United Kingdom
Information: Various slate quarry routes around Llanberis with plenty of choice to choose where to climb. Also, a chance to navigate the famous snakes & ladders route situated in Dinorowic quarry with fantastic views.
Accommodation: YHA Llanberis has group rooms and bunks for 2 if preferred. Also, various camping sites in and around the area if sleeping under the stars is more appealing.
Services: Plenty of shops, ATMs and all other services in Llanberis town centre.
Food: Pubs and restaurants in Llanberis town so you can book a table at the local pub for the Saturday if required. Also self service kitchen at the hostel for making our own breakfast, lunch , dinners.
Transport: Travelling by car is always easiest. Rail links to Bangor Station and regular buses (every hour) out to Llanberis.
For further information or to confirm attendance please contact Nick via the club WhatsApp group.

The Roaches and Rock Hall Cottage Summer 2025
2025-05-30 - 2025-06-01 | Scotland
InformationClimbing at the Roaches from the conveniently situated Don Whillans Memorial Hut… After the popularity of the Summer 2024 trip, we have booked Rockhall Cottage again. The Roaches offers all grades of climbing for those looking to learn to lead, for families and for those wanting to push their grades… Reasonable hill walking including the pilgrimage to Lud’s Church for the Luddites…
ServicesNot a lot actually, except for a few pubs so you should really bring everything you need with you. We will seek to arrange someone to organise the catering so expect to contribute for dinner Friday night, breakfast and lunch Saturday (we normally book the Rock Inn Saturday night) and then Sunday breakfast… We will be in touch about this.
AccommodationOne of the best bunkhouses in the Peak… bring a sleeping bag and roll mat as the two rooms provide bare wooden bunks only… There is not a lot of privacy… There is hot running water and two flush toilets, a lounge with heater, a drying room (small) and the kitchen, in the cave. LINK HERE. The Club had its founding meeting here back in 2013, the last time we attended here as a group. We ave booked the hut out for two nights. Prices are £22.00 for two nights (no single night requests accepted and no refunds). It is possible prices will go up next year but this will typically only be £1-£2… Food contributions may be an additional £15.00 -£18:00… Please Contact Jim as soon as possible to book your space as this will probably be oversubscribed.
FoodWe will ask for a contribution and provide food for the weekend… we will be in touch about dietary requirements and preferences… The kitchen is quite basic and it is not that practical for everyone to cook for themselves… the shared option is the only way it all works.
TransportCar is the best… Leek is the big smoke down the hill to aim for if you need a lift… get in touch early!
ItineraryMeet up at the car park with plans to get some of the classics in… Meet up Friday 30th May and climb Saturday 31st May and leave Sunday 1st June. All of us will be required to spend 30 minutes or so cleaning the hut. Please factor this in to your Sunday morning and do not expect to leave before we have left the hut in good order.
DatesMeet at the hut on Friday 30th May and leave on Sunday 1st June 2025.

Kernow 2025
2025-06-13 - 2025-06-15 | cornwall, Morvah, Penzance, TR20 8YX, United Kingdom
Info: The plan is as follows but is subject to change…
Drive down on Friday evening and leave on the Sunday after climbing all weekend. Climb in the South West area, around the classics in Sennen, Chair Ladder and Bosigran all day Saturday.
Then on Sunday drive home diverting to Roche Rock. This crag is an outcrop of rock with ruins of a Gothic chapel built on top with an altered granite rock type with ‘gritstone-like friction.’ Grades ranging from D – E4!

Accommodation: The North Inn – in Pendeen. £10 per person per night including use of the showers which, with the toilets, are situated in the pub itself.
https://thenorthinnpendeen.co.uk/

Food: The choice is yours, bring your own, takeaway, or eat in somewhere.

Transport: Unfortunately, car is the only way. There’s not much in terms of public transport in deepest darkest Kernow.

Services: Not a lot, so bring what you need.

Somerset Sea Cliffs and Quarries 2025
2025-07-04 - 2025-07-06 | Somerset, United Kingdom
Information
Join Jim, Jake and Andrew for a return visit to Brean Down and Uphill Quarry… (See what we did there). Plenty to go at, including a pleasant coastal path for those who just want to walk. We normally get some bouldering in too.
Services: Not much, bring it all with you. There are local shops in the village 1.5km away and 3 pubs within a 10 minute drive.
Accommodation: Floor space or camping at Jim’s house. More van space now the front tree has gone…
Food: BBQ on Friday & Saturday night and there is always something for breakfast.
Transport: You will need a car or at least, space in one…
Dates: Arrive on the evening of Friday 4th July 2025 and leave on Sunday 6th July 2025.
Organiser: Jim McCall
Location
Meet up at Jim’s house… Climbing at Brean Down.
Organiser
Jim McCall

LAKE DISTRICT
2025-08-08 - 2025-08-10 | Coniston, Cumbria, LA21 8AJ, United Kingdom
Information: A small group of us are planning to spend the weekend around Coniston with the aim of climbing at Dow Crag on Saturday 9th. Dow Crag is one of the biggest crags in England with multi-pitch climbing up to 100m at all grades. The Classic Rock climb, Murray’s Route (S 4a) beckons and Giant’s Crawl is one of (if not the) best Diff routes in Britain.
Services: Everything you need can be found in Coniston, including some good gear shops.
Accommodation: I have booked an AirBnB cottage near Torver just south of Coniston.
Food: Self-catering in the cottage with evening meals out possible in nearby pubs and restaurants.
Transport: Car is really the only sensible option.
Itinerary: Arrive on Friday to climb if agreed. Otherwise meet at the cottage on Friday evening or on Saturday morning. Possible second venue on Saturday. Climbing on Sunday for those not in a hurry to get home.

SNOWDONIA 2025
2025-08-22 - 2025-08-24 | Snowdonia National Park, LL48 6LF, United Kingdom
Info:
Join Paul on a trip to Snowdonia… multi-pitch trad, scrambling and hill-walking all available. Something for everyone. Meet up either on the Friday night at YHA Ogwen cottage, or, alternatively meet at a pre-agreed crag Saturday morning. Climb/Walk/Scramble Saturday with various options for Sunday to either travel back early or get a cheeky route in before departure.This would be a good trip to attend if you are keen to develop your trad climbing on multi-pitch climbs. Please get in touch with Jim if you are keen.
Services:
Banks and food shops available in Betws y Coed and Bethesda on the road in.
Accommodation:
Staying at Idwal Cottage YHA… Details HERE.
Food:
Probably best to be self-sufficient but a there are plenty of pubs in the area. The hostel has kitchens.
Transport:
Car is easiest. Train links to Bangor and local buses out to the hostel. If you need a lift, then get in touch with Jim and he will try to coordinate something.
Dates: August 22nd 2025 – August 24th 2025
Please get in touch with Paul Gale via the WhatsApp group in you need anymore information.

Devon Deep Water Soloing
2025-08-29 - 2025-08-31 | Berry Head, Berry Head, Brixham, Devon, TQ5 9AW, United Kingdom
Info: Late summer, warm seas and sunny days can mean only one thing: deep water soloing season is on. Join us at Devon’s premier venue for a weekend of splashy fun. Routes for all, from 3a to Neil Gresham’s soup-up 8a, Cutlass, with plenty to go at between. Adventurous traverses just above sea level abound, Magical Mystery Tour and Rainbow Bridge are not to be missed. For those feeling less inclined to get wet, there are also ample trad routes to choose from, with the imposing cave of the Great Redoubt featuring the Hard Rock classic Moonraker, to the pleasant sun-trap of red wall.
Services: All the trappings of civilisation available in the nearby fishing town of Brixham.
Accommodation: Camping available at walking distance from climbing at the Centry Road campsite and touring park.
Food: Campsite cooking with washing facilities, pubs available in Brixham.
Transport: Trains run to Paignton with local bus connection between, lifts can be coordinated.

BMC GOWER CLIMBING FESTIVAL 2025
2025-09-05 - 2025-09-07 | Moorlakes Wood Scout Centre, Fairwood, Southgate, Swansea, Glamorgan, SA4 3PQ, United Kingdom
Information: The BMC Gower Festival is an annual event. Some of us have attended in the past when it was based at the Pitton Cross campsite where we’ve also stayed on club trips. The new venue is at a Scout Centre nearer to Swansea. This is a family event. Rather than bore you with loads of details, just take a look at THIS SHORT VIDEO of the 2024 event and at the BMC Gower Climbing Festival Facebook page. There will be plenty to do at the festival site, but the climbing (sport, trad and bouldering) is excellent. Tickets for the event will be available from about May and will sell out quickly.
Services: Pick up supplies on the way in past Swansea or while out in Gower during the day. Food stalls and bar available on the festival site, together with gear stalls.
Accommodation: Camping (space for tents and camper vans, though these get booked quite quickly). Other campsites available if you don’t want to stay on the festival site.
Food: Self-catering or buy at festival food stalls. Pubs and restaurants near climbing venues.
Transport: Probably cars. Nearest train station is Swansea.
Itinerary: Arrive on Friday to climb if agreed. Otherwise meet the festival site on Friday evening. Climbing on Saturday, and on Sunday for those not in a hurry to get home. Some free courses will be on offer. For example, Jim and I did a good self-rescue session on our last visit.

End of Summer Grit Trip
2025-09-12 - 2025-09-14 | Peak District, S32 1BR, United Kingdom
Info
Take advantage of the end of summer weather and get out on the Grit… Trad and bouldering. Limestone (trad and sport) and hill walking all available too. Plans to follow the best of the weather climbing on the best crags, making sure we get some bouldering in to balance off with the trad climbing.

Services
Gear shops and general shops in Hathersage and Castleton. Hole in the wall machines less available than you think.

Accommodation
Staying at YHA Castleton (camping is the cheap option…) YHA Castleton Losehill Hall Hostel | Cheap Peak District Accommodation

Food
Shared kitchen and dining at the hostel, along with a pizza cafe and bar. Plenty of pubs in Castleton…

Transport
Castleton is on the Sheffield to Manchester train line. Buses also available from Sheffield. Get in touch with Jim if you need a lift and he’ll see if there is an option…

Dates
12th to14th September 2024

South West Coastal Walk September 2025
2025-09-20 08:00 - 2025-09-21 17:00 UTC | North Morte Farm, Mortehoe, Woolacombe, North Devon, EX34 7EG, United Kingdom
Information
Join Andrew (S) and Jim for their regular visit to the SW Coastal Path…. Starting at North Morte Farm and heading south to Croyde and Baggy Point… There’s plenty to see, there and back. A great day for walking and for those who want to climb, accessible sea cliffs with lots of adventure. The Club has walked and climbed here on a few occasions, and we can advise if you are keen on the adventure…
Services
Cash machines and shops on the road in. The Camp site has a store too. Probably a pub meal (20 minutes walk) on Saturday night… Bring what you need for walking or climbing but there might be a middle of the day stop…
Accommodation
North Morte Farm… Highly recommended and as good as it gets… Camp Site
Food
Probably arrive early Saturday… 08:30 at the camp site. Bring food for the day… Plenty of options on the way in. Saturday night, a visit to ‘The Ship Aground’ – the Club’s spiritual home in North Devon Pirate Country…
Transport
Public transport can get you to Woolacoombe but it’s not easy… Get in touch with Jim early and we may be able to sort something from Bristol or Shepton Mallet…

RETURN TO COSTA BLANCA
2025-10-11 - 2025-10-18 | The Orange House, De La Foia, 23, Finestrat, Alicante, 03509, Spain
Information: This will be our third club trip to Costa Blanca, and we love it! The opportunity to escape the damp and cold of our autumn and walk, scramble and climb in warm sunshine in Spain is unbeatable. On previous trips, we’ve done loads of sport climbing, some amazing trad routes and, last time, an epic scramble traverse of the Bernia Ridge. There’s so much on offer and it’s a great place to be.
Services: Despite being based up in the mountains, we will be only a 10-minute drive from the commercial centre in Benidorm. If that doesn’t appeal, the village of Finestrat has everything you need.
Accommodation: The Orange House, Finestrat, Spain
Food: Self-catering for breakfast and evening meals. Eat out in local bars or restaurants nearby. Plenty of fresh produce in the local shops.
Transport: Fly to Alicante and share car hire. One hour from the airport and we can arrange pick-up.
Itinerary: Ideally, coordinate arrival in Alicante, but we’ve never managed this in the past. In practice, we can climb near Alicante on pick-up and drop-off days for those arriving later or leaving earlier. Venues to be discussed and agreed day-to-day, but we’ll all have our own ideas. I’m keen to get some trad done on the coastal crags.

SNOWDONIA 2025 PART 2
2025-10-24 - 2025-10-26 | Snowdonia National Park, LL48 6LF, United Kingdom
Info:
Join Paul on a trip to Snowdonia… multi-pitch trad, scrambling and hill-walking all available. Something for everyone. Meet up either on the Friday night at YHA Ogwen cottage, or, alternatively meet at a pre-agreed crag Saturday morning. Climb/Walk/Scramble Saturday with various options for Sunday to either travel back early or get a cheeky route in before departure.This would be a good trip to attend if you are keen to develop your trad climbing on multi-pitch climbs. Please get in touch with Jim if you are keen.
Services:
Banks and food shops available in Betws y Coed and Bethesda on the road in.
Accommodation:
Staying at Idwal Cottage YHA… Details HERE.
Food:
Probably best to be self-sufficient but a there are plenty of pubs in the area. The hostel has kitchens.
Transport:
Car is easiest. Train links to Bangor and local buses out to the hostel. If you need a lift, then get in touch with Jim and he will try to coordinate something.
Dates: October 24th 2025 – October 26th 2025.
Please get in touch with Paul Gale via the BMSCMC WhatsApp group in you need anymore information.

The End of the Gritstone Season
2025-11-21 - 2025-11-23 | Scotland
Info
As the Gritstone season is starting to come to an end, join us for a chance to get out before the onset of winter… Plans to climb trad and boulder on the best crags, following the best weather… Plans firmed up when we see the weather report.

Services
Everything you need in Ashbourne or Buxton, up or down the main road… If we are meeting on the Eastern Grit, then shops in Hathersage and Castleton… Bank machines less available than you’d think…

Accommodation
Staying at YHA Ilam Hall
YHA Ilam Hall Hostel | Cheap Dovedale, Peak District Accommodation

Food
The hostel has a shared kitchen and a full breakfast and evening meal service… It is remote so we tend to stay at the hostel.

Transport
Hathersage is on the Sheffield to Manchester train line if we climb on the Eastern Grit. Ashbourne is the nearest transport hub to the hostel. Get in touch with Jim if you need a lift and he’ll see if there is an option…

Dates
21st to 23rd November 2025

The Start of the Gritstone Season
2026-01-09 - 2026-01-11 | Scotland
Info
As the Gritstone season kicks off again, join us for a chance to get out now the good weather is returning. Plans to climb trad and boulder on the best crags, following the best weather…

Services
Everything you need in Ashbourne or Buxton, up or down the main road… If we are meeting on the Eastern Grit, then shops in Hathersage and Castleton… Bank machines less available than you’d think…

Accommodation
Staying at YHA Ilam Hall
YHA Ilam Hall Hostel | Cheap Dovedale, Peak District Accommodation

Food
The hostel has a shared kitchen and a full breakfast and evening meal service… It is remote so we tend to stay at the hostel.

Transport
Hathersage is on the Sheffield to Manchester train line if we climb on the Eastern Grit. Ashbourne is the nearest transport hub to the hostel. Get in touch with Jim if you need a lift and he’ll see if there is an option…

Dates
9th to 11th January 2026.

Scottish Winter Extended Trip - SYHA Glen Nevis
2026-02-14 - 2026-02-22 | SHYA Glen Nevis, Glen Nevis, Fort William, Scotland, United Kingdom
Information: Join us for the annual trip North, this time for an extended trip, returning to Glen Nevis SYHA Hostel. Whilst Scottish winter is always serious, there can be options for introduction into this discipline… Get in touch with Jim or Paul early so plans can be inclusive.
This Hostel is conveniently located for Glen Coe, Ben Nevis, The Aonachs, The Mamores, The Central Highlands and Creag Meagaidh and surrounding hills. With 6 or 7 core days, extended trips out to the Torridon and/or Aviemore are feasible too.
Services: Fort William offers all required services including food (a large Morrisons supermarket next to the station), cash and kit (including kit hire if you get in touch early enough – most gear shops will rent out boots, crampons and ice axes).
Accommodation: SYHA Glen Nevis… we stayed here last year and it was recently refurbished… and very comfortable. https://www.hostellingscotland.org.uk/hostels/glen-nevis/
Food: Plenty of shops to buy breakfast and lunch… The SYHA has a members’ kitchen and a canteen that provides breakfast only. Bring your own or we may visit a pub…
Transport: Car is best… get in touch with Jim if you need a lift and we will see what we can do. Trains to Fort William are frequent from England.
Itinerary: It will all depend on weather and avalanche conditions but with so much available, a range of options should present themselves…

AGM in the Peak 2026
2026-04-17 08:00 - 2026-04-19 17:00 | Carlswark Cottage (DPC Hut), Stoney Middleton, S32 4TN, United Kingdom
Information
These Clubs don’t run themselves you know… Bouldering, trad, sport and hill walking all available within a stone’s throw. Join us for a weekend of climbing, a chat about the direction of the Club and then all you can drink in the pub afterwards.
Services
Cash machines and shops at Hathersage. Plenty of shops on the road into the cottage. We will arrange someone to organise the catering so expect to contribute for dinner Friday night, breakfast and lunch Saturday evening dinner, and then breakfast Sunday and snacks throughout. We will be in touch about this.
Accommodation
One of the best bunkhouses in the Peak… bring a sleeping bag as the bunkroom provide mattress bunks only… There is not a lot of privacy as it is one shared room of bunkbeds… There is hot running water and two flush toilets and two showers, a lounge with heater, and the kitchen, LINK HERE The Club had a couple of AGMs here and it is good to contribute to the Derbyshire Pennine Club again… We have booked the hut out for two nights. The price is currently £12.00 a night so £24.00 for two nights’ accommodation (no single night requests accepted and no refunds) but they are expecting a small price rise for 2026. Food contributions will be an additional £21.00 to £25.00… Somewhere around, but probably not above, £50.00 for food and accommodation for the weekend… Exact price will be made available as soon as we know. Not a bad deal! Please Contact Jim as soon as possible to book your space as this will probably be oversubscribed. Day visitors are invited to join us for evening meals and are normally charged a nominal fee.
Food
Plenty of shops to buy snacks… but the Club will cater for all, including snacks. There is normally more food than needed… We will ask for your contribution and provide all the food for the weekend… we will be in touch about dietary requirements and preferences… And post a complete list so you can check what is available for you. The kitchen is quite basic, and it is not that practical for everyone to cook for themselves… the shared option is the only way it all works.
Transport
Car is best… get in touch with Jim if you need a lift and we will see what we can do. Trains to Hathersage from Sheffield and Manchester.
Itinerary
We will check the weather the day before and decide on which crags to go to. This will be shared on the WhatsApp chat for the trip. Meet up at the hut Friday evening 17.04.2026. Climb Saturday and meet up at 19:00 for (what is customarily) a short AGM. Climb Sunday but please expect to spend 30 minutes tidying up the hut on Sunday morning. Please factor this into your Sunday morning and do not expect to leave before we have left the hut in good order.

YORKSHIRE GRIT TRIP
2026-05-01 08:00 - 2026-05-04 17:00 | Catgill Farm, Bolton Abbey BD23 6HA, Catgill Farm, Bolton Abbey, BD23 6HA, United Kingdom
Information – A small group of us are planning to spend the bank holiday weekend in the Yorkshire Dales with a focus on climbing on grit. Our main targets would be Brimham, Almscliff and Cow and Calf at Ilkley. We plan to arrive early to climb on Friday and stay over until Monday, so potentially with 3-4 days of climbing.
Services – Everything you need is nearby in Ilkley, including petrol, groceries and some gear shops.
Accommodation – We will be camping at Catgill Farm, Bolton Abbey BD23 6HA (https://www.catgillfarm.co.uk/). Online booking is available for pitches, bell tents and camping pods.
Food – Self-catering for breakfast and lunch with evening meals out possible in nearby pubs and restaurants or on the way back from the crag.
Transport – We will have a couple of cars available, so if you want to come by train to Ilkley we could pick you up.
Itinerary – Arrive on Friday to climb in the day. Otherwise meet at the campsite on Friday evening or on Saturday morning. Climbing on Sunday, Sunday and Monday for those not in a hurry to get home.
Dates – Friday 1st to Monday 4th May 2026
Contact – Andrew Martin – Please get in contact to let me know if you’re interested.

SNOWDONIA REVISITED 2026
2026-05-29 - 2026-05-31 | Snowdonia National Park, LL48 6LF, United Kingdom
Info:
Join Paul on a trip to Snowdonia… multi-pitch trad, scrambling and hill-walking all available. Something for everyone. Meet up either on the Friday night at YHA Ogwen cottage, or, alternatively meet at a pre-agreed crag Saturday morning. Climb/Walk/Scramble Saturday with various options for Sunday to either travel back early or get a cheeky route in before departure.This would be a good trip to attend if you are keen to develop your trad climbing on multi-pitch climbs. Please get in touch with Jim if you are keen.
Services:
Banks and food shops available in Betws y Coed and Bethesda on the road in.
Accommodation:
Staying at Idwal Cottage YHA… Details HERE.
Food:
Probably best to be self-sufficient but a there are plenty of pubs in the area. The hostel has kitchens.
Transport:
Car is easiest. Train links to Bangor and local buses out to the hostel. If you need a lift, then get in touch with Jim and he will try to coordinate something.
Dates: May 29th – May 31st 2026
Please get in touch with Paul Gale via the BMSCMC WhatsApp group in you need anymore information.

Kernow 2026
2026-06-26 - 2026-06-28 | cornwall, Morvah, Penzance, TR20 8YX, United Kingdom

Somerset 2026
2026-07-17 - 2026-07-19 | West Harptree, Jim's House, West Harptree, Somerset, United Kingdom
Information: Arrive Friday 17th July 2026 with options to boulder at Ubley Warren. A day (Saturday) over at one of the crags and then a probable visit to one of the quarries Sunday morning. Bouldering, sport, trad, sea cliffs, gorges and quarries… something for everyone. Please get in touch with Jim so he can make arrangements.
Services: Not much, bring it all with you. There are local shops in the village 1.5km away and 3 pubs within a 10 minute drive.
Accommodation: Floor space or camping at Jim’s house. More van space now the front tree has gone…
Food: BBQ on Friday & Saturday night and there is always something for breakfast.
Transport: You will need a car or at least, space in one…
Dates: Arrive on the evening of Friday 17th July 2026 and leave on Sunday 19th July 2026.

Dartmoor 2026
2026-08-07 - 2026-08-09 | Hound Tor, Hound Tor, Newton Abbot, TQ13 9XG, United Kingdom
Information: Meet up Saturday morning at 09:00 at Hound Tor. Spend the morning trad climbing and bouldering. Weather and conditions allowing, we’ll move onto Bone Hill Rocks in the afternoon where there’ll be the option of wild camping overnight for an early start on Sunday morning (those rocks won’t climb themselves!)
Services: Bovey Tracey has banks and shops and is a convenient stop off on the way over the Moors. Bovey is the self-appointed ‘Gateway of the Moors’ and will provide all the necessaries…
We’re based at Chagford, which is a good gateway if approaching the moor from the East via the A30, there’s also a service station at Whiddon Down just off the A30 where basic sundries and fuel can be obtained.
Closest rail station is at Okehampton (it’s a full ten tors walk from there to the climbs with no busses so you’d need to arrange lifts if you’re planning that!)
Accommodation: Some of those in the Southwest may treat this as an extended day trip but for those that want to stay over… We are planning to bivvy/ camp overnight Saturday. The National Park normally publishes a map for wild camping and local restrictions, including camping 100m from the road and not in sight of any buildings. Bone Hill is ideal.
If conditions are less than perfect there’s some floor space at ours and a number of pubs in Chagford that do accommodation (at a price).
There’s a YHA at Post Bridge (which also hosts a good pub) and a campsite/ bunkhouse at Runnage farm (a short walk from Post Bridge) as well.
Hopefully a more self sufficient weekend but with fall back options for those seeking a touch more comfort!
Transport: Cars is the best plan. Public transport doesn’t really exist on the moors and the ponies aren’t well trained!

Alpine Trip 2026
2026-08-17 - 2026-08-26 | Ailefroide, Ailefroide, France
Information: You will need to operate as an independent two (or three or four) for this trip. Flights and car travel to the camp site will need to be organised independently. Saying that, this is a great opportunity to be introduced to a new discipline… and it doesn’t have to feel as hard as a Scottish Winter trip, so don’t be put off. The summits we have identified are easy and non-technical and just require some new skills and techniques to be mastered… skills moving roped together and crevice rescue techniques. We can climb as two or three separate groups, together on the same route and watch out for each other. If this is for you, please get in touch with Jim as soon as possible so we can arrange the necessary learning. Experienced alpinists in the Club are also very welcome and there are harder routes to go at if you want… and one of the easier 4000m peaks – The Barre D’Ecrins (4101m)… There are a range of alpine grades on offer and the valley serves 4 huts so there are many options.
Plans may change with weather and glacier conditions, but the plan is to get a couple of summits in from the huts, heading up Tuesday 18th August and returning to the valley Friday… A few days in the valley to rest or to take on any of the numerous sport crags that surround the camp site.
For those who have no interest in the summits, the rock climbing is an attraction in its own right, and many come here just to sport climb. There is a developing bouldering scene too. The Club has the guidebooks for cragging and bouldering. Mats are available to rent out from about €20 a day (2024 prices).
The huts offer good day walk targets, and many spend the time walking the hut routes or the valleys. There are also via ferrata routes here. Literally, something for everyone.
There was a Club trip here in 2024 (and another in 2017)… you may want check the photos on the Club Flickr page…
Services: Alifroide offers a supermarket, cash machines and restaurants and bars. There are a few kit shops, but you really want to bring everything you need with you. Options to hire kit are limited (with the exception of bouldering mats and via ferrata).
Accommodation: The camp site is huge and booking is never a problem… website here. It is less than €10 a day per person (2024 prices).
For the huts, the two most likely used huts are Du Glacier Blanc and Ecrins.
Currently, there is no facility to book ahead and typically, this is available early 2026… Once we know who is attending and firm up an itinerary, then we can make a single group booking.
Food: I generally take some trail food options (because I’m fussy) but the supermarket was good enough last time… There are enough cheap eating out options in the village for most tastes.
Transport: The nearest airports are Genoble – 3 hours, Geneva – 4 hours and Turin (in Italy) about 3 hours if you factor in the drive up and over and possible border chaos for Brexitiers… There are multiple flights, by a range of carriers between London airports and Geneva.
Hire car to the camp site is probably the obvious solution.
Dates: Meet at the camp site (see accommodation) on the evening of Monday 17th August 2026… climbing until Tuesday 25th August 2026, flying back on Wednesday 26th August 2026… Get in touch re flight details.

Portland Deep Water Soloing Trip 2026
2026-08-21 - 2026-08-23 | Portland Bill, Portland Bill, Portland, Dorset, DT5 2JT, United Kingdom
Come and make the most of the sunny south coast in the middle of summer!
If you’ve never tried Deep Water Soloing (DWS) then Portland Bill is a great spot to start. Access to the routes is easy, grades go down to sport 4+, and there are plenty of short routes over very deep water (including several traverses where you’re only just off the surface). Add to this, high tides through the middle of the day, on both days and it’s like bouldering with a large, blue, splashy mat! 😊
For those who want to push things a little harder, there are safe 3-star routes all through the grades, up to 7b+ (!).
If it is too wavey for DWS (or it just doesn’t take your fancy) Portland is probably the best sport climbing destination in the country, with a wide range of grades and route lengths available.
The Plan: On Friday night, for those staying in Dorchester, meet up for some drinks and / or food at one of the many local pubs / restaurants. For those who choose to stay on Portland we’ll see you at the crag on Saturday morning.
Climb at Portland Bill on Saturday before a BBQ back at ours (Dorchester), more climbing Sunday before heading home Sunday afternoon / evening. If sea conditions a poor then we will switch venue to one of the many sport climbing crags on Portland, so bring your harness just in case.
There are many routes at a range of grades at Portland Bill, so two days will give us plenty of time to explore and for those new to DWS to build confidence. DWS is very much like bouldering, short intense bursts interspaced with chatting / recovering, so there will be plenty of time for swimming, etc., and eating ice creams! There is also plenty of sport climbing in the area if you want to mix it up.
What to bring: Swimmers, liquid chalk, climbing shoes, sport climbing equipment (in case of poor DWS conditions), large beach towel, small hand towel, optional wetsuit or rash vest, waterproof sun lotion, anything else you want for the beach (e.g. changing robe, paddle board, snorkel, etc.)
Services: There are several supermarkets in Dorchester and one on Portland, as well as plenty of pubs, restaurants, and takeaways in the area.
Accommodation: I’m based in Dorchester (about 45 minutes’ drive to the climbing) and have a baby, so will be staying at home. It would be ideal if people could stay in the Dorchester, however accommodation in the town is limited to hotels, and a couple of AirBnB’s, with camp sites on the outskirts. There is room on our couch and space for a tent on the patio, as long as you don’t mind sharing the place with a 1-year-old.
As this is the South Coast in August, it is advisable to book accommodation as far in advance as possible.
Hotels:
Booking.com: Hotels in Dorchester. Book your hotel now!
Camping:
Thorncombe Farm, Dorchester, Dorset – 2026 from £17/nt
Dewflock Farm, Dorchester, Dorset – 2026 prices
If you’d rather stay on Portland, then there is a bunkhouse (PortlandBunkhouse | The perfect Portland Holiday), and basic campsite near the Bill.
Food: Meal out on Friday night for those who wish, and BBQ in Dorchester on Saturday.
Transport: Car is by far the easiest way to both get to Portland and around it. However, there are two train stations in Dorchester, and the nearest station to Portland in the nearby town of Weymouth. So, depending on the number of cars between us, we could organise a lift from Dorchester or pickup from Weymouth.
Tide Times:
