Experience it

Introduce your pals to mountain magic

There’s a great tradition in the UK for introducing mates to hills. You kind of need it, really. We’re not talking about guiding them to the summit of the Matterhorn or tackling the Cuillin ridge. Just the good, honest pastime of braving the weather with a bunch of selected individuals you suspect might need to get out more in the British hills. Nothing is quite as rewarding as seeing the love you have for – let’s face it – a rather peculiar and illogical hobby spread to another’s face as they finally see what all the fuss is about. And as so many who walk will attest, you could be igniting a flame that will see them right for life. But it’s quite an important task: a route that isn’t too long, yet is epic enough to infect with a love of the wild; kit that fits and keeps your compadres safe; the right hill, the right view, the right time of year… and, of course, the right pub at the end. June is a fine month for getting started, too – the Lakes, Pennines and Snowdonia are on ravishing form, and Scotland might be harbouring just a dash of late-season snow to keep things feeling that little bit more grown-up. Watch out for thicker stuff in the Cairngorms and on Ben Nevis, and make sure you prepare adequately for your trip