
What we’re about
City Mountaineering – Guided UK Mountain Trips from Manchester
We’ve taken thousands of people into the UK mountains over the years — safely, confidently, and in small groups.
## Small-Group Mountain Adventures from Manchester
City Mountaineering organises professionally planned, small‑group mountain hiking trips from Manchester to Snowdonia, the Lake District, and across Scotland.
If you live in Manchester and want to explore the UK’s most spectacular mountains — without worrying about logistics, navigation, or finding the right people — you’re in the right place.
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## What We Do
We run guided mountain trips every weekend, taking care of:
- Transport from Manchester (train and road transfers)
- Accommodation
- Route planning and mountain navigation
- Qualified, experienced mountain leadership
Groups are intentionally small (typically max 8 people) to keep trips safe, friendly, and personal.
Our members are usually:
- City-based professionals
- Solo hikers or pairs
- Curious, capable, and community‑minded
- Ranging from confident beginners to experienced walkers
You don’t need to come with friends — most people don’t.
***
## Is This Group Right for You?
This group is for you if:
- You want real mountain experiences, not crowded coach tours
- You prefer small groups and a supportive atmosphere
- You like the idea of building confidence over time
- You want clear information about fitness levels and expectations
This group may not be right if:
- You’re looking for ultra‑cheap mass trips
- You only want city walks or casual strolls
- You’re unwilling to follow safety guidance in the mountains
***
## New to City Mountaineering? Start Here 👇
If you’re new, we strongly recommend starting with one of:
- A Manchester intro talk or social
- A short UK day hike
These are relaxed, low‑commitment ways to:
- Meet the guides
- Ask questions about fitness and experience
- Understand how our longer trips work
***
## Safety, Experience & Trust
City Mountaineering has been running trips for many years and has taken thousands of people into the UK mountains.
Safety is central to everything we do:
- Conservative decision‑making in poor conditions
- Careful route choices
- Clear communication about fitness and kit
- Small groups with individual attention
You’ll always know what’s expected before you book.
***
## How to Join a Trip
- Browse upcoming events on Meetup
- Read the event description carefully
- Ask questions in the comments — we’re happy to help
- Follow the booking link provided in the event
Places are limited and trips often fill up.
***
## A Note on Community
This is an active, real‑world community — not just an events listing.
We encourage:
- Asking questions
- Commenting on events
- Coming to socials even if you’re unsure about trips yet
If you’re dreaming about the mountains while living in Manchester, this group exists for you.
***
## New here?
Most members start with a Manchester social or intro event before booking a mountain weekend.
Featured event

Winter West Highland Way!!
You've probably heard of The West Highland Way: a 150km long-distance hike from Glasgow to Fort William (the gateway to The Scottish Highlands).
Well, we dont lead this route in the summer due to the shear number of people doing it (it's often referred to as The West Highland HighWay).
We like to do things a little differently at City Mountaineering!
We are leading this trip when the route is quiet: In the middle of Winter!
The shorter days and often slippery under-foot conditions means that this is likely to be a tough week, often with some hiking in the dark. But that's why we love adventure :)
Lead by a highly qualified and experienced Mountain Leader, you will hike from accommodation to accommodaiton whilst your luggage is transferred and ready for you when you arrive!
You will then have access to a warm shower, bed and comfortable clothes each night/day.
This truly is a once-in-a-lifetime trip and all on the shores of our little island. This is a simply breathtaking hike, however a good level of fitness is a must!
You will be hiking long distances for 7-days in a row potentially in the dark and on slippery terrain.
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ITINERARY
Please note that exact timings and order of activities are subject to change, based on the local conditions at the time - The beauty of this trip is that the plans can be loose to allow for uncontrollable factors such as the weather
Friday - Meet outside Glasgow Central Station at 10pm and transported to your hostel accommodation for the night for a full trip briefing, kit check and readying yourself for the days ahead
Saturday - Milngavie to Dryman (19km)
Departing the accommodation, you will head straight out to the trail, heading north towards Loch Lomond
Sunday - Drymen to Rowardennan (23km)
After breakfast, you will continue along the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, walking through ancient woodland and overlooked by the great Ben Lomond
Monday - Rowardennan to Inverarnan (21km)
Today you hike through the most remote area of Loch Lomond as you pass it's most northerly sections. You will then be rewarded with the spectacular 'Inversnaid Waterfall' befoire checking in to your accommodation for the night
Tuesday - Inverarnan to Tyndrum (19km)
Leaving Loch Lomond behind, you will follow the river Falloch through the glen. You have now reached the beginnings of The Scottish Highlands. Continuing up the valley, you will reach your hotel in Tyndrum, your next rest point on the trail.
Wednesday - Tyndrum to Kingshouse (30km)
Leaving relative civilisation for a couple of days, you will continue north up the valley. Following the West Highalnd Railway Line, the day is relatively flat (albeit, the longest day that still continues gradually uphill :)
Thursday - Kingshouse to Kinlochleven (14km)
Hiking over the top of the Glen Coe valley is the where the mountains really impress. You will get sight of probably the most photographed and most striking mountains in The UK: Buachaille Etive Mor.
This day includes the steepest section of the trip as you hike over the zig-zag track of The Devils Staircase and down in to Kinlochleven
Friday - Kinlochleven to Fort William (23km)
Leaving the town through Lairigmor (the great pass), you will soon be in an isolated valley, surrounded by huge mountains that, as the day unfolds, will include Ben Nevis - The highest mountain in The UK!
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Cost: An 7-day/7-night adventure from just £895!
To join us, simply RSVP and pay the £150 despot. We'll then be in contact with more trip information and details on how to pay the balancing amount.
Included in the cost:
- 7-nights hostel/bunkhouse/B&B/Hotel accommodation
- Baggage transfers each day, so you just carry a light day pack
- 7-days guided hiking by a highly experienced and qualified mountain leader
- Breakfast each morning
- All lunches when hiking (unless in a cafe/restaurant/pub)
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All City Mountaineering trips are compliant with the 2018 Package Travel regulations (including financial protection)
Please be aware of our Participation Statement and Terms & Conditions prior to joining
Upcoming events
7
- £100.00

TWIXMAS: Easy Hiking in The Lake District - return train included!
Manchester Piccadilly, Piccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, GB*TWIXMAS: That lull between Christmas and New Year where we are stuck in a time warp. Our routine is disrupted and the to do list is in limbo. What do we do?*
The Norwegians have a word for this: "Romjul". It's a time to to reflect on the past year and a time to take long walks...
Let's escape to the picturesque Lake District for a weekend of gentle hikes and serene beauty!
Join us as we explore the charming landscapes around Windermere and Langdale, perfect for those looking to unwind and enjoy the natural wonders of this iconic region at a leisurely pace.
Return train travel from Manchester included, so you don’t need to spend hours sat in the minibus on the busy motorways.
***
ITINERARY
Saturday: Journey to the Lake District
- Meeting Point: Meet outside Manchester Piccadilly train station at 4pm
- Train to the Lake District: You'll travel together as a group by train, enjoying the company of fellow adventurers and the anticipation of the weekend ahead.
- Meet the Guide: Upon arrival in the Lake District, you'll meet your guide who will accompany you throughout the trip.
- Transfer to Accommodation: You'll be transferred to your cozy accommodation near Windermere, where you can settle in and relax for the night.
Sunday: Exploring Windermere and the Surrounding Area
- Breakfast: Start the day with a hearty breakfast to fuel up for your first hike.
- Hike: You'll be driven a short distance to begin your first easy hike of the weekend. The specific route will not be confirmed until the weather forecast is known, but rest assured that our highly experienced and qualified guide knows the area better than most and will pick the best options to maximise your enjoyment throughout the weekend.
- Pub Dinner: After a day of hiking, you'll head out for a delicious dinner at a traditional local pub, sharing stories and enjoying the warm atmosphere.
Monday: Discovering the Langdale Valley
- Breakfast: Another hearty breakfast to start the day.
- Hike: Again, the specific route will not be confirmed until the weather forecast is known. Your guide may provide you with a few options from hills to lakes, rivers and hidden waterfalls. This is your weekend and we want you to go home after having the best possible experiences
- Return Journey: You'll transfer back to the train station for your return journey to Manchester, filled with wonderful memories of our weekend in the Lake District (expect to arrive in London at around 9pm)
Join us for a weekend of easy hiking and relaxation in the Lake District, where stunning views and tranquil paths await. Reserve your spot now and get ready to unwind in one of the UK's most beautiful natural settings!
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DIFFICULTY: This trip is designed to be an easy and relaxed 2-days in The Lake District. However, some uphill and downhill hiking is unavoidable, but don’t worry, your guide is experienced enough to keep the pace slow and everyone happy and motivated throughout the trip
TRANSPORT: Return train journey from Manchester and short distance minibus transfers in The Lake District
ACCOMMODATION: Single-sex rooms in hostel (rooms rented exclusivelysive for our group)
***
COST: £295
To join, simply RSVP and pay the £100 deposit. We'll then be in contact with more details including specific logistics and kit list.
INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
• Return train travel from Manchester to The Lake District
• Road transfers in The Lake District
• 2-night’s accommodation
• Guiding hiking with a highly experienced and qualified Mountain Leader
NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
• Personal hiking kit
• All food and drink
• Personal hiking kit
***
All City Mountaineering trips are compliant with the 2018 Package Travel regulations (including financial protection)
Please be aware of our Participation Statement and Terms & Conditions prior to joining6 attendees - £100.00

New Year in The Lake District!
Manchester Piccadilly, Piccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, GBKickstart the New Year with an unforgettable hiking adventure in the stunning Lake District!
Return train travel from Manchester and hotel accommodation included!
***
Escape the hustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature as you explore crisp winter trails, climb breathtaking peaks, and take in panoramic views.
This New Year hiking trip offers the perfect balance of outdoor adventure and relaxation, allowing you to reset and start the year feeling refreshed and inspired.
After each hike, return to our cozy pub accommodation where you can relax by the fire, enjoy delicious local food, and share stories with fellow travellers.
Whether you're setting new goals or simply looking for a peaceful escape, this trip is the ideal way to begin the year surrounded by the beauty of the Lake District.
Trip Highlights
🏞️ Stunning hikes through snow-kissed mountains and valleys
❄️ Fresh, crisp air and breathtaking winter views
🥾 Tailored hikes for all fitness levels
🏠 Cozy evenings with roaring fires
🍲 Delicious local food and drinks
🎉 Celebrate New Year's Eve surrounded by nature and adventure
🌟 A perfect way to refresh, recharge, and start the year
Set new goals, embrace the adventure, and begin the year with the beauty of the Lake District!
***
ITINERARY
Tuesday, 30 December
- 🚉 Meet outside Manchester Piccadilly train station around 10am for a relaxing train journey north to the enchanting Lake District.
- 🏔️ Your friendly guide will greet you on arrival and transport you to your cozy Eskdale accommodation, nestled among the mountains, where you’ll be staying for three nights.
Wednesday, 31 December (New Year’s Eve)
- 🥾 Kick off the day with an easy circular hike directly from your accommodation, taking you over a local Wainwright hill. Feel the invigorating mountain air as you stretch your legs and enjoy the stunning views—perfect for setting the tone for the festivities ahead!
- 🏠 Return to your cozy pub accommodation to freshen up and prepare for a night of celebration as you say goodbye to the old year and welcome the new one in style! Enjoy a festive dinner and drinks with fellow adventurers as the countdown begins!
Thursday, 01 January (New Year’s Day)
- 🌅 Start the New Year with a hearty breakfast, and if you’re feeling adventurous, consider a refreshing dip in the local river to shake off any post-celebration cobwebs!
- 🏞️ Embark on another circular hike to soak in the breathtaking beauty of the Lake District, exploring its hidden gems and picturesque landscapes. This is your chance to enjoy the serene tranquility of the park on the first day of the year!
Friday, 02 January
- ☕ Enjoy a final breakfast at your accommodation before packing your bags and heading to a charming local town or village for lunch, allowing you to savor the flavors of the Lake District one last time.
- 🚆 Afterward, your guide will transport you to the train station for your return journey home, feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and inspired for the year ahead!
***
DIFFICULTY: This trip is designed to be a relatively easy 4-days, perfect for those looking for a relaxed New Year in The Lake District. The hikes are gentle, with manageable distances and minimal steep terrain, making it suitable for all fitness levels. No prior hiking experience is needed—just enthusiasm!
Your experienced guide will ensure a comfortable pace, keeping everyone safe, happy, and able to enjoy the beautiful surroundings at their own speed.
TRANSPORT: Return train journey from Manchester and short distance minibus transfers in The Lake District
ACCOMMODATION: Single-sex twin/double rooms in a cosy pub/hotel on the quieter side of The Lake District
***
Join us for an unforgettable weekend of adventure in The Lake District! Reserve your spot now and prepare to see in 2025 in the most beautiful places in the world!
**COST:**£795 (or £695 if booked before 30 August 2025)
To join us, simply RSVP and pay the £100 deposit. We will then be in contact with more information, including a detailed itinerary and kit list.
INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
• Return train travel from Manchester to The Lake District
• Road transfers and logistical support in The Lake District
• 3-nights hotel accommodation
• Breakfasts
• Guiding hiking with a highly experienced and qualified Winter Mountain Leader
• Use of our winter kit, if required (crampons, ice axe, helmet)
NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE
• Personal hiking kit
• Lunches and Dinners
***
All City Mountaineering trips are compliant with the 2018 Package Travel regulations (including financial protection)
Please be aware of our Participation Statement and Terms & Conditions prior to joining10 attendees - £100.00

Winter ascent of Snowdon
Manchester Piccadilly, Piccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, GBYou may have climbed it in the summer, but an ascent of Snowdon in winter provides a unique and very different mountain experience, with snow and ice transforming it into one of the UK's most majestic mountains.
To fully appreciate and enjoy a winter ascent, it is best to be properly prepared for the winter environment - with an early start, good crampon technique and the right equipment all helping to give a truly memorable mountain day.
This trip is suitable for anyone, regardless of winter hiking experience - A Full day of winter skills tuition will be provided prior to attempting the hike to the highest point in England & Wales
If you already have winter hiking experience, this day of tuition will be great to hone your skills and reacquaint yourself with the skills you've already learnt
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ITINERARY
Friday PM
Meet outside Manchester Piccadilly train station and take a relaxing journey to North Wales in the comfort of the train
Saturday
A full introduction to what we will be doing, a safety briefing, a kit check, a hike to the snow/ice line for an introduction to the winter environment, an introduction/revision of ice axe/cramponing skills and the style of mountaineering required for a winter ascent.
Sunday
An early start, with a variety of route options, we will decide the best route based on ground and weather conditions (and the groups appetite for adventure). After reaching the highest point in England and Wales, we will descend safely back to the vehicles for your transfer back to the train station and onward journeys home.
(Return trains from Manchester included in the cost of the trip)
***
ACCOMMODATION
We will be staying in a local hostel (single-sex rooms booked for our exclusive use) to ensure we are warm and comfortable in the evening.
Your minimum kit list should be:
- Base Layers
- Fleece
- Warm/Insulated Jacket
- Hiking Trousers
- Waterproof Jacket
- Waterproof Trousers/Salopettes
- Hat or Balaclava
- Warm Ski Type Gloves/Mittens (A spare pair is also recommended in case one gets wet)
- Warm Socks
- Sturdy Hiking Boots
- Ski Goggles
- Sunglasses
- Back Pack suitable for day hikes (30-35 litres)
- Waterbottle and / or thermos flask
- Headtorch
- Personal medication
***
Cost: £345 for the entire weekend
Included in the price:
- Return train travel from Manchester to North Wales
- Road transport and logistical support in North Wales
- 2-nights hostel/bunkhouse accommodation
- Technical equipment required for winter hiking (ice axe, crampons and helmet) and lessons in how to use them.
- Tuition and 2-days of guided hikes by a highly experienced and qualified Winter Mountain Leader including the ascent of Snowdon
Not included in the price:
- Your personal hiking kit
- All food throughout the weekend
- Personal travel insurance
***
To join this trip, simply RSVP and pay the £100 deposit. We will then be in contact with further trip information, kit list and request for final payment.
***
Note: The weather and ground conditions will not be known until closer to the date and full winter conditions, whilst expected at this time of year, cannot be guaranteed. The trip will go ahead regardless of conditions (The only exception being if the prevailing weather is too dangerous e.g. Thunderstorms)
***
All City Mountaineering trips are compliant with the 2018 Package Travel regulations (including financial protection)
Please be aware of our Participation Statement and Terms & Conditions prior to joining5 attendees - £100.00

Winter ascent of Scafell Pike
Manchester Piccadilly, Piccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, GBHave you ever hiked to the summit of the highest mountain in England? Have you climbed it in winter!? - Well that is exactly what we are doing on this trip!
To fully appreciate and enjoy a winter ascent, it is best to be properly prepared for the winter environment - with an early start, good crampon technique and the right equipment all helping to give a truly memorable mountain day.
This trip is suitable for anyone, regardless of winter hiking experience - A Full day of winter skills tuition will be provided prior to attempting the hike to the highest point in England
If you already have winter hiking experience, this day of tuition will be great to hone your skills and reacquaint yourself with the skills you've already learnt
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ITINERARY
Friday PM
Meet outside Manchester Piccadilly Railway Station and take a relaxing train journey north, to The Lake District. You will be met in The Lake District by your guide and transported the short distance to your accommodation for the weekend.
Saturday
A full introduction to what we will be doing, a safety briefing, a kit check, a hike to the snow/ice line for an introduction to the winter environment, an introduction/revision of ice axe/cramponing skills and the style of mountaineering required for a winter ascent.
Sunday
An early start, with the option of ascending using the track up the Eskdale Valley, direct from Wasdale Head, or along the Corridor Route. The specific route we take will depend on experience, ability and weather conditions.
After safely returning to the vehicles, you will be transported back to the railway station for your onward train journey back to Manchester.
(Return train journey is included in the cost of this trip)
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HOTEL ACCOMMODATION!
Hotel (twin rooms) to ensure we are warm and comfortable in the evening.
Your minimum kit list should be:
- Base Layers
- Fleece
- Warm/Insulated Jacket
- Hiking Trousers
- Waterproof Jacket
- Waterproof Trousers/Salopettes
- Hat or Balaclava
- Warm Ski Type Gloves/Mittens (A spare pair is also recommended in case one gets wet)
- Warm Socks
- Sturdy Hiking Boots
- Ski Goggles
- Sunglasses
- Back Pack suitable for day hikes (30-35 litres)
- Waterbottle and / or thermos flask
- Headtorch
- Personal medication
-------------------------------
Cost: £345 for the entire weekend
Included in the price:
- Return train travel from Manchester to The Lake District
- Road transport and logistical support in The Lake District
- 2-nights hostel/hotel accommodation
- Technical equipment required for winter hiking (ice axe, crampons and helmet) and lessons in how to use them.
- Tuition and 2-days of guided hikes by a highly experienced and qualified Winter Mountain Leader including the ascent of Scafell Pike
Not included in the price:
- Your personal hiking kit
- All food throughout the weekend
- Personal travel insurance
***
To join this trip, simply RSVP and pay the £100 deposit. We will then be in contact with further trip information, kit list and request for final payment.
***
Note: The weather and ground conditions will not be known until closer to the date and full winter conditions, whilst expected at this time of year, cannot be guaranteed. The trip will go ahead regardless of conditions (The only exception being if the prevailing weather is too dangerous e.g. Thunderstorms)
***
All City Mountaineering trips are compliant with the 2018 Package Travel regulations (including financial protection)
Please be aware of our Participation Statement and Terms & Conditions prior to joining2 attendees
Past events
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