So, you’ve decided you’d like to climb a mountain. Brilliant!
But where do you start?
The UK has hundreds of mountains, ranging from relatively straightforward walks to serious mountaineering challenges. Some have obvious paths and gentle approaches, while others involve steep, rocky terrain, exposed ridges and complicated navigation.
And here’s something worth remembering: the highest mountains aren’t necessarily the most difficult, and the smallest aren’t necessarily the easiest.
I’ve spent years guiding people in the mountains, including plenty who are tackling their very first summit. One of the questions I’m asked most often is:
“Which mountain should I climb first?”
The answer depends on your fitness, experience, confidence and the conditions on the day.
However, there are some excellent mountains around the UK that make particularly rewarding objectives as you begin your hillwalking journey.
Some are ideal for your very first outing, while others are bigger challenges to work towards as your experience grows.
Here are nine of my favourites.
1. Moel Siabod, Snowdonia – 872m
Moel Siabod is one of my favourite mountains in Snowdonia, and it’s a fantastic place to begin developing your mountain walking skills.
Standing above the village of Capel Curig, it offers spectacular views across the surrounding mountains, including the Snowdon massif.
There are several routes to the summit, ranging from straightforward walking routes to much more adventurous approaches involving scrambling.
For beginners, I’d recommend the relatively straightforward approach from the Capel Curig side, avoiding the scrambling routes.
The mountain is high enough to feel like a proper achievement, but it doesn’t attract anything like the crowds you’ll encounter on Snowdon.
Why it’s good for beginners: A rewarding mountain day with opportunities to develop confidence on mountain terrain.
Things to consider: Navigation can become challenging in poor visibility, particularly around the summit. Choose your route carefully.
2. Pen y Fan, Brecon Beacons – 886m
Pen y Fan is the highest mountain in South Wales and one of the most popular mountain walks in Britain.
The well-used route from the Pont ar Daf area provides a relatively accessible introduction to mountain walking.
You’ll still have a substantial climb, but the paths are generally clear and the terrain is less technical than many routes in Snowdonia.
The summit offers spectacular views across the surrounding landscape.
It’s a mountain that can be enjoyed throughout much of the year, provided conditions are appropriate.
Why it’s good for beginners: Well-established paths, a straightforward route in clear conditions and a genuine mountain summit.
Things to consider: The summit is exposed, and strong winds, low cloud and poor visibility can make the walk considerably more challenging.
3. Catbells, Lake District – 451m
Don’t be fooled by the relatively modest height of Catbells.
This little mountain overlooking Derwentwater is one of the Lake District’s most popular walks, and with good reason.
The views are magnificent, the walking is varied and the summit feels considerably more dramatic than its height might suggest.
There are some rocky sections where you’ll need to use your hands, depending on the route you choose.
For someone with a reasonable level of fitness who is comfortable on uneven ground, Catbells can be a brilliant introduction to more adventurous walking.
Why it’s good for beginners: Spectacular scenery, manageable distance and an excellent sense of achievement.
Things to consider: Some sections involve easy scrambling and can feel exposed to inexperienced walkers. It’s not the best choice for somebody uncomfortable with heights.
4. Mam Tor, Peak District – 517m
Mam Tor is one of the most recognisable hills in the Peak District.
Its name means ‘Mother Hill’, and its distinctive shape makes it a popular destination for walkers of all abilities.
From the nearby Mam Nick car park, the summit can be reached relatively quickly along a well-maintained path.
However, I’d encourage you to make more of a day of it by exploring part of the Great Ridge towards Lose Hill.
This gives you an opportunity to practise route planning, estimate walking times and enjoy some fantastic views across the Hope Valley.
Why it’s good for beginners: Accessible paths, excellent views and opportunities to extend your walk as your confidence improves.
Things to consider: Although the paths are generally straightforward, the ridge is exposed to wind and weather.
5. Snowdon, Snowdonia – 1,085m
Of course, I couldn’t write this article without including Snowdon.
It’s the highest mountain in Wales and probably the mountain most people think about when they’re considering their first climb.
And yes, Snowdon can absolutely be a suitable first mountain.
But that doesn’t mean it’s easy.
I’ve guided hundreds of people up Snowdon over the years, and one of the biggest misconceptions is that its popularity somehow makes it less demanding.
Even the Llanberis Path, generally considered one of the more straightforward routes, involves a substantial ascent and a long day on your feet.
You’ll need suitable clothing, food, water, appropriate footwear and a sensible understanding of the weather.
The Llanberis Path is usually my recommendation for first-time walkers looking for a non-technical route.
And while Snowdon attracts thousands of walkers, don’t assume the crowds will always be there to guide you. In poor weather, even familiar routes can become difficult to follow.
Why it’s good for beginners: Well-established paths, a fantastic sense of achievement and the opportunity to climb Wales’s highest mountain.
Things to consider: It’s a long mountain walk with over 900 metres of ascent from Llanberis. Weather conditions can change dramatically, and snow or ice can make even the easier paths hazardous.
Don’t underestimate it.
6. Conic Hill, Loch Lomond – 361m
If you’re based in Scotland or planning a visit, Conic Hill is a lovely introduction to hillwalking.
Situated near Balmaha on the eastern shore of Loch Lomond, it offers wonderful views across the loch and its islands.
The main walking route is relatively short, although there are some steep sections.
It’s a particularly good choice for somebody who wants to experience the rewards of climbing a hill without committing to a full day in the mountains.
And although Conic Hill isn’t particularly high, the views from the top are spectacular.
It’s a good reminder that you don’t have to climb the highest mountain to have a brilliant day outdoors.
Why it’s good for beginners: A relatively short outing with fantastic scenery and a rewarding summit.
Things to consider: The route can be steep and slippery, particularly after rain.
7. Skiddaw, Lake District – 931m
Skiddaw is one of England’s highest mountains and dominates the skyline above Keswick.
Despite its height, the popular route from the Underskiddaw area follows relatively straightforward walking terrain without requiring scrambling.
That makes it an attractive option for walkers who want to progress towards bigger mountain days.
However, don’t confuse straightforward terrain with an easy walk.
There’s still a considerable amount of climbing involved, and the upper mountain is exposed to the weather.
On a clear day, the views across the northern Lake District are magnificent.
But in low cloud, the broad slopes and summit area can become surprisingly difficult to navigate.
Why it’s good for beginners: A high mountain summit accessible by a non-technical walking route in suitable conditions.
Things to consider: Significant ascent, exposure to wind and potentially difficult navigation in low cloud.
I’d suggest building up to Skiddaw rather than making it your very first hillwalk.
8. Scafell Pike, Lake District – 978m
Scafell Pike is England’s highest mountain and a fantastic achievement for anyone getting into hillwalking.
Although the mountain has a reputation for being challenging, there are established walking routes that don’t require technical climbing or scrambling.
The popular route from Wasdale Head is relatively direct, although steep and rocky in places.
The terrain is noticeably different from mountains such as Pen y Fan or Mam Tor. There are extensive areas of loose rock and boulders, and the paths aren’t always as obvious as you might expect.
This is particularly important when descending.
It’s quite possible to follow what appears to be an obvious route, only to discover that you’re heading in completely the wrong direction.
I’ve seen plenty of beginners successfully climb mountains such as Scafell Pike. The important thing is arriving with a reasonable level of fitness, suitable equipment and an understanding of the route.
Why it’s good for beginners: An achievable introduction to bigger mountain days for walkers who’ve prepared properly.
Things to consider: Rocky terrain, steep ascents and potentially difficult navigation in poor visibility.
Scafell Pike is a wonderful mountain, but it’s one where I’d strongly recommend having some basic navigation skills before setting off independently.
9. Ben Nevis, Scottish Highlands – 1,345m
Ben Nevis is the highest mountain in the UK, and climbing it is an ambition for thousands of people every year.
The popular Mountain Track provides a non-technical walking route to the summit in suitable summer conditions.
However, it’s a long and physically demanding day, with more than 1,300 metres of ascent.
The route begins near sea level, which means you’re climbing almost the entire height of the mountain.
That’s a lot of uphill walking!
The summit plateau also requires particular care. Poor visibility can make navigation difficult, and there are serious hazards around the summit cliffs and gullies.
Even during the summer months, temperatures on the summit can be surprisingly low, and snow can persist well into the warmer part of the year.
That doesn’t mean beginners should avoid Ben Nevis.
It means they should approach it with proper preparation and respect.
With suitable fitness, equipment, navigation skills and favourable conditions, it can be an incredibly rewarding mountain for somebody relatively new to hillwalking.
Why it’s good for beginners: A well-established walking route offering an achievable goal for newer hillwalkers who are ready for a bigger challenge.
Things to consider: Significant ascent, rapidly changing weather, possible snow and ice even outside winter, and serious navigation hazards on the summit plateau.
If Ben Nevis is your ultimate goal, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with climbing a few smaller mountains first.
You’ll enjoy the experience much more when you know what to expect.
How do you choose the right mountain?
Before deciding where to go, there are five things I’d encourage you to consider.
1. Distance
How far will you actually be walking?
Remember that mountain distances can be deceptive.
Five miles on steep, rocky terrain can feel considerably harder than five miles along a flat path.
Don’t just look at the distance and assume you’ll be able to walk at your normal pace.
2. Ascent
The amount of climbing involved is often more important than the overall distance.
A route involving 1,000 metres of ascent is going to be physically demanding, regardless of how short it looks on the map.
And remember that what goes up must come down.
Descending a mountain can be surprisingly tiring, particularly on steep or rocky ground.
3. Terrain
Will you be following a straightforward path, or does the route involve scrambling, steep ground or exposed ridges?
Make sure you understand what you’re getting into.
A route described as ‘easy’ by an experienced mountaineer might feel very different to somebody climbing their first mountain.
4. Navigation
How easy will it be to follow the route if the weather deteriorates?
A path that seems obvious in sunshine can become surprisingly difficult to follow in thick cloud.
Don’t rely entirely on following other people.
Carry a map and compass, learn how to use them and make sure you understand your intended route.
5. Weather
Always check a proper mountain weather forecast.
Pay particular attention to wind speed, visibility, temperature and precipitation.
Remember that conditions at the summit may be very different from those in the valley.
And if the forecast looks unsuitable for your experience, choose another day or a less demanding route.
Do you need to be fit to climb a mountain?
You don’t need to be an athlete.
However, a reasonable level of walking fitness will make your first mountain considerably more enjoyable.
If you’re not currently walking regularly, start with shorter routes and gradually increase the distance and ascent.
Walking uphill is something you get better at by doing it.
You might begin with a relatively short walk up Mam Tor before progressing to longer mountain days on Snowdon, Scafell Pike or Ben Nevis.
Don’t worry about being the fastest person on the mountain.
Find a comfortable pace, take breaks when you need them and enjoy the experience.
Remember, it’s not a race to the summit.
Should you climb your first mountain alone?
There’s nothing inherently wrong with walking independently, but if you’re completely new to mountain walking, I’d recommend going with somebody who has some experience.
That might be an experienced friend, a walking group or a professional mountain guide.
You’ll learn a huge amount simply by spending time with somebody who understands route planning, navigation and mountain conditions.
And having somebody alongside you can make that first summit feel considerably less intimidating.
If your ambition is to eventually head into the mountains independently, consider learning some basic navigation and mountain skills.
It’s one of the best investments you can make in your future adventures.
Remember, the summit isn’t everything
One of the most important lessons I try to teach people is that reaching the summit isn’t compulsory.
Sometimes the weather changes.
Sometimes you’re more tired than expected.
Sometimes the route is more challenging than you anticipated.
And sometimes you simply decide you’d rather turn around and enjoy the walk back.
Making a sensible decision to turn around is never a failure.
The mountains aren’t going anywhere.
There will always be another day.
Ready to climb your first mountain?
The UK has some truly wonderful mountains, and you don’t need years of experience to start enjoying them.
Whether your first summit is Mam Tor, Snowdon, Scafell Pike or even Ben Nevis, the important thing isn’t how high the mountain is.
It’s choosing a route appropriate to your abilities, preparing properly and understanding the conditions you’re likely to encounter.
Start with something manageable, build your confidence and gradually take on bigger challenges.
Every experienced mountain walker started somewhere.
And once you’ve stood on your first summit, there’s a good chance you’ll already be thinking about the next one.
Want to learn how to climb a mountain?
I wrote How to Climb a Mountain specifically for people who want to start exploring the mountains but aren’t quite sure where to begin.
Drawing on my experience as a professional mountain guide, the book covers everything from choosing equipment and understanding mountain weather to navigation, route planning and staying safe.
It also includes 11 mountain routes to help you put your new skills into practice, including some of Britain’s most famous summits.
Whether you’re planning your very first mountain or hoping to become a more confident and independent walker, it’s designed to help you take that next step.
Signed copies are available direct from me.
