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 MemberSymposia
Below is a list of Alpine Club Symposia.
Organised by members of The Alpine Club, events focus on the mountains of a particular area, or on a specific aspect of mountaineering. Each symposium runs for a whole day and is typically held at a weekend in the Lake District, North Wales or the Peak District. During the day experts on the subject, including top mountaineers from around the world, give a series of illustrated presentations, creating an event that is both informative and inspiring. Take a look at the impressive list of speakers at recent and forthcoming symposia to see why these events are so popular. The symposia are usually open to members at a discount, as well as non-members.
Symposia are particularly useful for anyone planning an expedition or looking for new places to visit. Many expeditions have started in the bar after a symposium; but be warned: these events can be dangerously inspirational!
Events Calendar
Martin needs no introduction to our members. He has a remarkable knowledge, both practical and theoretical, of the Scottish hills, the Alps and Northern India.
Martin’s lecture will focus on his recent autobiography of his guiding life “Higher Ground”, with an emphasis on Scottish Winter, Norwegian Ice, Lyngen in the Spring, Alpine Grandes Courses and some time on his very recent trip to Nanda Devi.
Martin will have some copies of his book for sale. (Cannier SMC Members will already know that signed copies can add up to £5 to a book’s second hand value). On a more spiritual level, reviews have been excellent e.g. “What comes through most compellingly, however, is Martin Moran's simple love for the mountains in which he spends so much of his life. … parts of "Higher Ground" have the grip and intensity of some of the very best mountain writing of W.H. Murray … This book is a "must read" for anyone who has ever felt drawn to the mountains, whether in Scotland or beyond.”
Please support this lecture, as Martin is making the long journey from Loch Carron to Edinburgh to talk to us.
As usual, all members are welcome to join myself and Martin at Café Rouge, 43 Frederick Street beforehand c. 1730 – 1745. If you wish to join us, let me know by email 24 hours in advance.
