Monday, 29 September 2025 07:09

New book: The great mixed climbs of Scotland

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A new book,compiled by Guy Robertson + Hamish Frost, showcases daring ascents of some of the most challenging winter climbing routes in the Scottish mountains

Scottish Mountaineering Press is proud to announce the publication of The Great Mixed Climbs of Scotland, a landmark celebration of the routes, characters, and history of Scottish winter climbing. Compiled by acclaimed climber and author Guy Robertson, with photography by leading mountain sports photographer Hamish Frost, this large-format hardback will be published on 20 October 2025.

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Winter climbing is a decades-old pursuit, but over the past 20 years it has evolved dramatically. Advances in protection and continental-style techniques have enabled climbers to push the boundaries on steeper, bolder terrain. Yet it is the stubbornly steadfast ethical approach – rooted in respect for tradition and the wild character of the mountains – that makes Scottish mixed climbing unique.

The Great Mixed Climbs of Scotland is the culmination of an incredible community effort, bringing together a collection of voices from both acclaimed and lesser-known climbers in anthology format, with contributions from Dave Cuthbertson, Nick Bullock, Simon Richardson, Greg Boswell, Ines Papert and many more.

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Many of the 32 are first or second ascents, from storm-battered sandstone towers in the remote far north-west to calf-burning crack-lines in the Cairngorms, where Scotland’s wild conditions leave little margin for error. Honouring the legacy of Ken Wilson’s Cold Climbs, this collection continues the tradition with 32 routes graded VI and above – each, at their time, standing at the cutting edge of Scottish winter climbing.

“There’s something deeply nourishing about the physical and psychological freedoms of winter climbing. It holds tremendous spiritual appeal in an increasingly sterile, risk-averse world – an opportunity to unburden ourselves of these shackles and define our own destiny.” – Guy Robertson.

Presented in a 344-page, large-format coffee table edition, The Great Mixed Climbs of Scotland is both an inspiring tribute to Scotland's unique mountaineering culture and a vital historical record for future generations.

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The release of The Great Mixed Climbs of Scotland is supported by Peak District-based outdoor and mountain brand Rab, whose expertise in crafting rugged, hard-wearing mountain clothing and equipment makes them the perfect partner for this book. For over 40 years, Rab has provided climbers with protection, comfort, and freedom in the mountains, and we’re excited that some of Rab’s athletes and their accomplishments are featured in the book.

To mark the launch, Guy and Hamish will appear in person this autumn to discuss The Great Mixed Climbs of Scotland at the Banff Centre Mountain Film and Book Festival 2025 and the Kendal Mountain Festival 2025.