Are you ready for a challenge? This selection of mountains in the UK are not for the faint-hearted. Here are the best mountains to climb in the UK on your next adventure.
The UK has many mountains ready for you to put yourself to the test and conquer. We have selected these challenging mountains that are worth the strenuous climb! From the famous big three to some smaller climbed peaks with plenty to offer. We explore some of the best mountains to climb in the UK.
If you plan to take on one of the chosen mountains in this article, please wear the correct footwear and clothing. It is essential to avoid ascents in trainers or weak footwear. Give yourself enough time to get back down before it gets dark, check the weather, and prepare as much as possible for unpredictable weather. The temperature and weather at the summit are usually very different to the weather at the bottom. Don’t forget your first aid kit, mobile phone, emergency food, drink and your camera.
1. Ben Nevis, Lochaber, Scotland
Let’s start with the tallest mountain in the British Isles, Ben Nevis. It is located near the small town of Fort William and is one of the best mountains to climb in the UK. The summit of Ben Nevis is approximately 1345 metres above sea level.
Understandably it gets a lot of tourists. However, there are a few routes you can choose from when attempting this climb. Most walkers tackle the more straightforward mountain track up the mountain, starting at Glen Nevis. In comparison, experienced climbers are often attracted to the ‘North Face’, one of the highest cliffs in the UK.
A cairn at the summit marks the highest point, and there is also the Old Observatory at the summit, which provided hourly meteorological data for almost 20 years. It is now closed. Climbing Ben Nevis on a clear day will reward you with the most stunning panoramic views stretching as far as Northern Ireland.
FAQs about climbing Ben Nevis;
How long will it take me to climb Ben Nevis?
This depends on many factors such as your fitness level, the route you choose, the weather and how many breaks you will need to take. The most straightforward route takes roughly 7-9 hours to complete. Approximately 3.5 – 4.5 hours of this is the ascent to the summit.
How difficult is it to climb?
Again this depends on your route. However, all ways are long and strenuous! You will undoubtedly feel achy the next day; however, you will also feel a great sense of achievement.
Will I need a map and a compass?
The more accessible mountain track is reasonably straightforward. However, it’s essential to take both a map and a compass in case there is poor visibility during the climb.
Should I pack food?
Yes! and at least 1.5 litres of water with you in a reusable water bottle. It’s essential to start the day with a filling breakfast; porridge and banana are great choices. Then, pack a variety of food and snacks to keep you going. Try to choose complex carbohydrates and whole foods. Malt loaf, mixed fruit and nuts, ham/cheese sandwiches, raw fruit bars, dark chocolate or filled wraps are all great options to sustain you on your hike.
Learn more about climbing Ben Nevis here
2. Snowdon, Snowdonia, Wales
Quite possibly the most popular mountain you can climb in the UK is Snowdon. Snowdon is an impressive 1,085 metres, making it the highest mountain in Wales and England. Snowdon is one of 90 summits that reach over 2000 feet in Snowdonia National Park and one of 15 above 3,000 feet. It attracts more than 585,000 visitors each year, and there are plenty of well-worn routes you can take to reach the Summit. Llanberis Path is the most popular route; be aware it gets hectic during the Summer. There is a railway and a visitor centre at the top, and the view is out of this world.
There are 6 main walking routes on Snowdon, so it’s a good idea to use two different routes, one up and one down. So that you can experience a diverse view of the surrounding area, please make sure to choose the route most suitable to you and your abilities.
FAQs about climbing Snowdon;
How long will it take me to climb Snowdon?
This depends on many factors such as your fitness level, the route you choose, the weather and how many breaks you will need to take. A hike up Snowdon approximately takes up to 7.5 hours.
How difficult is it to climb?
You will undoubtedly need a reasonable general fitness level to tackle this climb. There is steep and uneven terrain with exposed areas, so prepare and research the route you plan to take. That way, you’ll know what to expect.
Will I need a map and a compass?
The routes up Snowdon are reasonably straightforward, and many people will often follow the same way. However, it’s always ideal to take both a map and a compass in case there is poor visibility during the climb.
Should I pack food?
Yes! and at least 1.5 litres of water with you in a reusable water bottle. It’s essential to start the day with a filling breakfast; porridge and banana are great choices. Then, pack a variety of food and snacks to keep you going. Try to choose complex carbohydrates and whole foods. Malt loaf, mixed fruit and nuts, ham/cheese sandwiches, raw fruit bars, dark chocolate or filled wraps are all great options to sustain you on your hike.
You can find the different Snowdon routes here.
3. Scafell Pike, Lake District, England
Scafell Pike is located in the Lake District, England’s highest peak. It makes up the Three Peak Challenge with Snowdon and Ben Nevis. Scafell Pike also homes the highest standing water in England, Broad Crag Tarn.
Plenty of routes will take you to the summit for varying levels of experience, the quickest way being roughly 2-3 hours. Climbing here on a clear day will reward you with views reaching as far as Wales, Scotland, and Ireland. Unfortunately, there are no buildings at the summit.
FAQs about climbing Scafell Pike;
How long will it take me to climb Scafell Pike?
This depends on many factors such as your fitness level, the route you choose, the weather and how many breaks you will need to take. On average, it takes around 3-4 hours to summit. The quickest route takes roughly 2-3 hours.
How difficult is it to climb?
Scafell Pike is a challenging climb. No matter your route, it’s a strenuous, steep hike involving scrambling over rugged terrain. So plan, prepare and select a way most suitable for you.
Will I need a map and a compass?
It’s always ideal to take both a map and a compass in case there is poor visibility during the climb. The top of the Pike is slightly confusing, with many paths and crags to fall off. It is easy to choose the wrong direction and end up in the wrong valley.
Should I pack food?
Yes! and at least 1.5 litres of water with you in a reusable water bottle. It’s essential to start the day with a filling breakfast; porridge and banana are great choices. Then, pack a variety of food and snacks to keep you going. Try to choose complex carbohydrates and whole foods. Malt loaf, mixed fruit and nuts, ham/cheese sandwiches, raw fruit bars, dark chocolate or filled wraps are all great options to sustain you on your hike.
You can find the different Scafell Pike routes here.
4. Helvellyn, Lake District, England
Helvellyn in the Lake District is the third biggest mountain you can climb in England. This is one of the Lake District’s most popular mountains to climb as it has excellent access. Helvellyn is around 950m above sea level at its highest point.
You’ll admire glacial coves, the sharp ridges of Swirral Edge, and the famous Striding Edge. There are plenty of routes to the summit of Helvellyn for different degrees of experience. For experienced walkers, you can find a few more challenging ascents. You might enjoy taking the route, which includes Striding Edge, which features an element of scrambling. This ridge walk requires your full attention as it can be extremely hazardous. However, the stunning Lake District views at the top on a clear day are always worth it.
FAQs about climbing Helvellyn;
How long will it take me to climb Helvellyn?
The shortest route is from Thirlmere; it takes around three hours to reach the summit, depending on your fitness level and if you choose to stop. However, you may want to select longer routes to take the opportunity to take in the scenery.
How difficult is it to climb?
All routes are tricky, and a few can be potentially dangerous climbs. For example, the ridge walk across Striding Edge can be exposed and hazardous in bad weather conditions and catch climbers out. Unless you are an experienced climber, take an easier route, especially on windy or wet days. Plan, prepare and select a way most suitable for you.
Will I need a map and a compass?
Some routes are signposted. However, it’s always ideal to take both a map and a compass in case there is poor visibility during the climb.
Should I pack food?
Yes! and at least 1.5 litres of water with you in a reusable water bottle. It’s essential to start the day with a filling breakfast; porridge and banana are great choices. Then, pack a variety of food and snacks to keep you going. Try to choose complex carbohydrates and whole foods. Malt loaf, mixed fruit and nuts, ham/cheese sandwiches, raw fruit bars, dark chocolate or filled wraps are all great options to sustain you on your hike.
You can find the different Helvellyn routes here.
5. Cadair Idris, Gwynedd, Wales
A firm favourite mountain climb of ours is Cadair Idris, it is without a doubt one of the best mountains to climb in the UK. At 893 metres, Cadair Idris is the highest mountain in southern Snowdonia. It’s not as busy as many other mountains in Snowdonia, which is peaceful and makes for an enjoyable climb. The glacial carved scenery is stunning and not to be missed. You can take three main routes to reach the summit: Pony Path, Foxs Path and Minffordd Path. The ascent to the summit is challenging and not for the faint hearted! It’s relentlessly uphill and requires a decent level of fitness.
We love the myths and legends attached to this mountain. Its name derives from ‘Chair of Idris’. According to legend, some people believe that Idris was a giant warrior poet who created this seat to sit back and gaze upon the heavens. Other people think Cadair Idris is a hunting ground of Gwyn ap Nudd, Lord of the Celtic Underworld’ Annwn’. Along with his supernatural red-eared hounds, they herd people’s souls back to the underworld.
FAQs about climbing Cadair Idris;
How long will it take me to climb Cadair Idris?
This depends on your fitness level, the weather and the route you take. You can take three recommended routes to the summit of this mountain. Roughly it will take 5-6 hours to get there and back.
How difficult is it to climb?
There are three routes you can take, and they are all reasonably difficult, whichever route you choose. There are all designated hard/strenuous routes. Plan, prepare and select a way most suitable for you.
Will I need a map and a compass?
Some routes are signposted. However, it’s always ideal to take both a map and a compass in case there is poor visibility during the climb.
Should I pack food?
Yes! and at least 1.5 litres of water with you in a reusable water bottle. It’s essential to start the day with a filling breakfast; porridge and banana are great choices. Then, pack a variety of food and snacks to keep you going. Try to choose complex carbohydrates and whole foods. Malt loaf, mixed fruit and nuts, ham/cheese sandwiches, raw fruit bars, dark chocolate or filled wraps are all great options to sustain you on your hike.
Are you ready to take one some of the best mountains in the UK? Yes! Then go for it; just follow safety advice, prepare thoroughly and have a great time enjoying nature’s giants. In the comments, let us know if you have climbed any of our chosen mountains.
