The Alpine Club, the world’s first mountaineering club, was founded in 1857.  For over 150 years, members have been at the leading edge of worldwide mountaineering development and exploration. 

With membership, experienced and aspiring alpinists benefit from a varied meets programme, regional lectures with notable guest speakers, reduced rates at many alpine huts, opportunity to apply for grants to support expeditions, significant discounts at many UK retailers, extensive networking contacts, access to the AC Library and maps - and more! 

Becoming a Member
 

Back in July, 66 women from all over Britain and Europe gathered in Langdale to meet with old and new friends and climb together in the heart of the Lake District. The 9 day meet of the Rendez-vous Hautes Montagnes got off to a great start with the evening reception on 13th July and the weather for the first four and a half days was fine and dry. Climbers visited many of the crags throughout Langdale during this early period, with climbs made on the valley's lower crags and higher crags including Dow, Pavey Arc and Gimmer.

Even when the rain inevitably arrived spirits remained high, and Mandy Glanville took the opportunity to introduce members to the uniquely British activity of scrambling up wet and greasy water courses which proved to be an instant hit. The meet finished with plenty more climbing and a final get together meal at the Stickle barn in Langdale.

The organised raffle on behalf of Ambleside and Langdale Mountain Rescue Team raised £271 and everyone who participated took home a great respect for the Lake District's climbing traditions and a wonderful impression of the generosity that enabled the meet to take place. Next year’s meet sees the Rendez-vous Hautes Montagnes come together in Slovenia.