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 MemberBelow 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!
John’s tales of climbing with the generation of mountaineers in the 1970s and 1980s who made bold light-weight ascents on some of the world’s highest mountains. Featuring Pete Boardman, Alex MacIntyre, Paul Nunn, Al Rouse, Doug Scott, Joe Tasker, and more. They pushed forward the boundaries of the sport but at a great price.
Alex Approaches final cornice on day 6, 1st ascent NE Face Bandaka, 1977 © John Porter
Leaving the first bivi, 1st ascent S. Nevado 3, 1979 © John Porter
Descending from Changabang after 1st ascent of the South Buttress, 1978 © John Porter