For those who prefer something a little more challenging such as rock climbing, scrambling or simply brushing up your navigation skills, then look no further than HiGHPOiNT.
Ex – Lake District National Park Ranger and mountaineering specialist John White set up John White Mountaineering in 1992. This evolved to become Highpoint Mountainguides in 2001.
John still runs the business, which has now expanded to offer a range of activities and training for groups www.lakeschallenge.co.uk and specialist services to the media, film and TV industries www.highpointpro.co.uk.
John White Says.
“My aim is to provide a high quality experience for everyone who comes out with us, whether you are undertaking some skills training, enjoying some guided climbing or just having some fun with a group”.
Instructors and Guides used by Highpoint are experienced, qualified professionals who are committed to ensuring that you have a safe and enjoyable time with them. Their local knowledge, and understanding of the mountain environment will frequently add some entertainment to your day and they have dozens of testimonials to this effect.
Highpoint hold an AALA Licence for the provision of a range of activities to unaccompanied under 18’s – details at www.aals.org.uk and are also members of the British Mountaineering Council and Institute for Outdoor Learning.
Insurance cover and risk assessments are all available on request.
Highpoint work with hundreds of individuals every year who undertake courses, guided walking and climbing or group activities. In addition, they work with several large organisations including;
- Berghaus
- Brasher
- Olympic Delivery Authority
- Loughborough University
- English Partnerships
INSTRUCTORS

John White started climbing in 1976 (when very young, obviously…). He has written or co-written guidebooks to Langdale, Northern England and the Stubai Alps. he has also written a book on Mountain Rescue and contributed to many walking books such as Classic Walks in Great Britain and AA Guides to France. John has made well over 100 first ascents up to E5 standard and Winter 6. He has climbed in Africa, throughout Europe and the Alps, the Rockies and Greenland.
Richard Bailey is as an excellent instructor – patient, skilful and safe. He has climbed all over the world – from the Lofoten Islands to South America, and from the Alps to Tibet. Richard has been with Highpoint for several years is our main climbing guide. An MIA qualified instructor, I know I can rely on him to provide a great service.
Highpoint also employ many other instructors on a freelance basis. Dave Birkett and Alan Hinkes are both available as specialist guides. Many previous course members will recognise the names of Dave Bishop – still giving quality instruction at the tender age of 60 something, Dave Willis who combines instructing with his life as a professional mountain sports photographer and Bill Birkett, the well-known Lake District author. They use many other freelance instructors, all of whom are carefully selected for their ability to offer a safe and enjoyable experience for you.