guided rock climbing
napes needle
Hire a guide to climb & summit Napes Needle. This classic Lake District climb is full of history. This is the birthplace of rock climbing in England and first ascended in 1886.
This day is delivered by a mountain professionals that are affiliated with the Association of Mountaineering Instructors
BESPOKE GUIDING PRICES
1:1 £250
1:2 £150pp
WHAT IS NAPES NEEDLE?
Napes Needle is a pinnacle or spire of rock that sits alone and proud on the mountainside, below Great Gable.
It is situated on The Napes crag and stands high above the Wasdale Valley with amazing views.
The Needle was first climbed in 1886 by Walter Perry Haskett-Smith. A pioneering climb like no other; he soloed his way up and down with no previous knowledge of the route... wearing a tweed jacket and hobnail boots!
The nature of the climb and its history means the route has a classic rock status and is the 'pinnacle' of rock climbing in the Lakes... pun intended.
Today, we have a much more modern approach and our guides are on hand to safely guide you up and importantly, back down from the top of the Needle.
WHATS ON OFFER?
Embark on a thrilling adventure to conquer one of the Lake District's most iconic rock formations, Napes Needle. Our expert guides are here to lead you through this exhilarating climb, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience.
Experienced Guides
Our certified guides have extensive knowledge of Napes Needle and are trained to provide an expert day, ensuring a safe and enjoyable climbing. We are on hand to manage the ascent and set up the ropes for a smooth descent, some consider the hardest bit of this climb is getting off. Our experts are on hand to manage this safely.
Tailored Experience
Our guiding service is tailored to meet your specific skill level and goals. We ask you to have some prior climbing experience but we can set up a multi day itinerary to help you achieve the Nape Needle in time.
Historical Significance
Napes Needle holds a special place in the history of British climbing. Our guides will share stories and insights about the pioneers who first ascended this iconic pinnacle.
Unparalleled Views
As you ascend Napes Needle, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Lake District landscape. High above Wasdale with the big mountains all around is an amazing place to rock climb. This will create memories that will last a lifetime.
Safety First
Safety is our top priority. Our guides are highly trained on this climb and equipped with the knowledge the safely manage the ascent and descent.
Equipment Provided
We supply all necessary climbing equipment, including harnesses, helmets, ropes, and hardware, ensuring you have access to high-quality gear for a safe and enjoyable climb (we do not supply rock shoes, these need to be your own).
Get in touch to discuss your booking; for ideas, for advice and recommendations!
WHY CHOOSE US?
Qualified Guides
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Our guides are qualified rock climbers with extensive knowledge of local climbing areas. They are certified and trained to a high standard. This standard is upheld through Mountain Training and our instructors hold the MCI award and are professional members of AMI.
Passion to inspire:
We're committed to leading by example, sharing knowledge, fostering growth and encouraging positivity in all climbing activities we provide.
Personalised Instruction
Our guides offer one-on-one instruction, providing personalised tips and techniques to help climbers improve their skills and confidence on the rock.
Flexibility and Adaptability
Your climbing adventure is designed to accommodate your schedule and preferences. Whether it's a single day excursion or a development plan over multiple days, we're here to make it happen.
Passion for Climbing
We are avid climbers ourselves, and our passion for the sport is evident in the experiences we create. We genuinely love sharing our knowledge and helping others discover the joy of rock climbing.
Memories that Last a Lifetime
We believe that climbing is more than a physical challenge; it's an opportunity for personal growth and unforgettable memories. Our tailored approach ensures that your climbing adventure is a story you'll cherish forever.
Get in touch to discuss your booking; for ideas, for advice and recommendations!
Ratios
1:2 Ratio - 2 people per 1 instructor
Safety is paramount so no more than 2 people per 1 instructor in technical terrain.
A party larger than 2 will require multiple instructors.
If Napes Needle is the only objective for the day, then 1 guide can take 4 people and each pair will take it in turns to climb.
Pre-Requisites
Some climbing experience is essential, a least a day or two on rock up to Severe grade - we can guide you for miltple days to achieve this goal.
You need to be confident enough to lean back in your harness and lower from the top of climb
A course that will help get you to this level is our Rock Skills Intermediate course.
Equipment
All technical equipment is provided.
We will share kit lists with you during the booking stage
Harness & Helmet provided but
you can bring your own
You will need to wear suitable outdoor clothing and have your own rock shoes.
Venue
Napes Needle is located on the south side of Great Gable.
It is on The Napes crag, a high mountain venue.
The walk in is around 2 hours but could take a little longer.
The climb needs to be dry for an ascent of the Needle. There are lots of alternative climbs in the area if the route is wet.
For bespoke guiding: dates on request
Please us the contact form or email us to enquire and we can organise a guided day based on your availability (and ours)
We can supply additional instructors for larger groups - 1:2 ratio for safety in this terrain. For every 2 people we can supply an additional guide.
CONTACT
We look forward to hearing from you and working towards your mountaineering ambitions and helping to achieve your goals.
Phone or WhatsApp:
07458353048
If calls are missed we will respond when possible, please leave a voicemail or text message where possible.
Thank you