Lake District Private Rock Guiding

CLIMB CLASSICS IN THE LAKE DISTRICT

The Lake District is the birthplace of rock climbing and home to a huge variety of terrain, from big mountain crags to scenic lakeside cliffs. Our expert guides will design a tailor-made programme for you, selecting classic routes with great views. Whether you want to tick off multiple climbs in one day or work toward a specific objective, we’ll help you make it happen.

GUIDING FOR ALL LEVELS

Our private guiding is for every level. Begin your climbing journey or push your limits.

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BESPOKE TRIPS

Looking for something specific? We can tailor private guiding and instruction to you

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ONE TO ONE COACHING

Learn from passionate instructors with a practical, supportive approach to teaching.

We’ll meet you either the evening before or on the morning of your booking, the exact location will depend on the weather and where you’re staying. We will chat through your experience and then create a plan for the day.
Climbs are chosen with your skill level, goals, and the conditions in mind, and we’ll aim to fit in as many great routes as possible. The focus throughout the day is on enjoyment — you’re here to have fun — while always prioritising safety, which is what our professionally qualified guides are trained for. If you would like to learn new skills and fancy a mixture of guiding and learning, our guides will work out the perfect plan for you!
Here’s a selection of routes in the Lake District available for guiding:
- Little Chamonix (VDiff), Shepherd’s Crag. one of UK’s most popular multi pitch climbs, great for beginners
- Troutdale Pinnacle (S), Black Crag. Great 6 pitch multi pitch climb with spectacular lakeland views
- Tophet Wall (HS) Napes Needle. A classic intermediate level multi pitch through steep, exposed terrain.
- Botterill’s Slab (VS), Scafell Crag. A sought after VS on one the highest crags in England.
- Eliminate A (VS 4C) Dow Crag. One of the best routes of it’s grade in the country.
- Behind the Lines (HVS 5A), Hodge Close Quarry. Lake District Slate at its finest, one of many fine routes to climb at this great crag.
- Gimmer String (E1 5B), Gimmer Crag. Technical and engaging climbing on a big, quick drying cliff.
With such diverse climbing terrain in the Lake District, we can tailor sessions for any experience level. From your first outdoor climbs to advanced guiding and coaching, we select routes that match your goals and ability. Have a specific objective in mind? Get in touch and we’ll build a plan together.
1 person: £250 per day
2 people: £300 per day
(Multiple-day bookings available — contact us for details)
- Guiding and coaching with an insured and professional guide
- Local transport to and from your accommodation in Kendal
- Ropes and technical equipment
- Helmet and harness
What’s not included?
- Climbing shoes
- Personal clothing
- Food and drink

Interested? Get in touch to start planning your next adventure with us

Any Questions?

Find some typically asked questions below. If you can’t find what you’re looking for contact us here or check our more comprehensive FAQ page.

We provide all essential climbing equipment except for climbing shoes/boots. You’ll need to bring your own suitable clothing and food.
We can usually run our courses even in wet/windy conditions, as there are sheltered locations throughout the Lakes. If the weather is unsuitable, we can reschedule for another date or we will provide you with a full refund.
If you need to cancel more than 4 weeks before the course, you’ll receive a full refund. Cancellations between 2 and 4 weeks incur a 50% refund, minus a £10 admin fee. Unfortunately, cancellations less than 2 weeks before the course are non-refundable.
We usually meet clients at a local cafe in the morning. This gives us a chance to introduce ourselves, discuss the plan, and tailor the day to your goals and experience. If an early start is required we will probably organise a call a day or two beforehand.
Lake District Mountain Guides is led by James Boothroyd, who personally runs the majority of our courses. You can learn more about him here. We also work with a trusted team of professional freelance guides, all fully qualified and insured. Your guide will contact you before the course to introduce themselves and outline the plan and answers any questions you may have.