Reviews on Google
We recently completed a 2 day learn to lead course with Patrick @ The Summit is Optional in the Peak District. It was a great couple of days. We learnt all the skills necessary single pitch lead climbing and completed the two days confidently leading a climb. Highly recommend!!Charlotte Brownlee8th June 2021
I booked Patrick from the Summit is Optional to help us navigate our way up and down Scafell Pike in May 2021. It was the first time me and my boyfriend have ever done something like this so we feel it's important to have some help and support. Patrick was very helpful in the lead up to the day providing us to with tips for the kit, where to meet and all the information we needed. On the day Patrick gave us a weather briefing and led the way giving us tips and safety guidance. Patrick is professional and motivating in a friendly way and his passion for his job is clear. We made it to the top (and back to ground) thanks to Patrick's expertise and we're truly grateful - we would happily recommend him to anyone who needs the same services and insight!Louise Chandler28th May 2021
Patrick was really friendly and knowledgeable. We requested a bespoke 1 day course on navigation. We gave him a challenge in that of our group of two, one is a beginner and one is intermediate in terms of navigation knowledge. Patrick managed to tailor a 1 day course to suit both of us. My main requirement was building confidence in my own navigation skills, and what to do if finding myself lost or in whiteout. I came away feeling confident I could tackle these situations and with refreshed understanding of navigation techniques. Excellent day out!Catriona Byrne26th May 2021
Fab family day out climbing. Introductory 'taster' single-pitch session followed by abseiling. Looking forward to giving it another goPaul Lambert26th May 2021
From the first moment I contacted Patrick, he was professional, polite and responsive. I booked a last minute break to the Lakes and wanted to do some walking and learn to map read. I looked up different companies, read reviews, did a fair amount of research. I wanted a small company, personable, and luckily for me, Patrick was available. Patrick helped me work out what I’d like to do and we made plans for 3 days activities, a sunrise walk - he presented many options and showed pictures for the different ways to see the sunset. I opted for Helvellyn and to be at the top for sunrise. This was a truly magical walk, I absolutely loved it and it really set my confidence back on the right track for many reasons, but doing swirral and striding edges was something i’m still proud of now.
Day 2 we were joined by another person and we did Bowfell and Crinkle Crags. Another ace walk, and Patrick’s ability to change things as we go, to know when people need a break and constantly sharing tips and bits of wisdom. You truly get so much packed into every day with Patrick.
My final day was a 1-2-1 skills day; I wanted to learn map reading and navigation. We did this in the Langdale Pikes and Patrick took me from being a complete novice to understanding how to plan a walk, thinking about the route to take, how difficult you want to make it, how much time it’d take, what you’d need (for me always multiple gloves - my cold hands really do need them! Thanks for use of the mittens on Helvellyn Patrick).
We did some scrambling and boldering (entry level) but it included seeing some great waterfalls.
Patrick taught me so much... how to check the weather, how to identify different features of the landscape, how to properly hold and use the map; lots of practical tips but also to believe in myself and to have confidence in my ability.
This was my first time in the Lakes and the first time walking in the hills, I absolutely loved it. This trip had a massive impact on my health and well-being, and Patrick played a big part of that. I’ve been going through a tough time, and this was just what I needed to reset.
Patrick gives great recommendations from experience, he tailors everything to you as an individual and I loved his three questions close to the end of each day, a reflection of what you’ve learnt and enjoyed most and then the difficult question of the worst bit!
I look forward to planning more walks for myself and putting into practice everything I learnt.
Would recommend Patrick to everybody.Kerry Gibson18th May 2021
Rory Murphy23rd April 2021
My brother and I recently went on a three-day scrambling course with Patrick on Ilkley Moor and at Coniston in the Lake District. We were both complete beginners in scrambling at the start of the course, but with Patrick's exceptional teaching, we now both have a very solid foundation to continue practicing and learning about these outdoor skills.
On the first day of the course, Patrick taught us about the different methods and skills in scrambling to enable ourselves to begin to move efficiently and safely - including how to anchor effectively (and the different ways of doing so), how to belay appropriately, as well as ropework and communication skills. As a wide-ranging and dynamic activity within mountaineering, Patrick emphasised the importance of context when applying the different methods of scrambling, and in evaluating the likelihood and consequences of making mistakes - a crucial part in choosing the right method to approach a scramble.
On the 2nd and 3rd days of the course, we experienced and were shown these different contexts when we went to Coniston. We climbed up both The Bell and Raven Crag - Grade 1 and Grade 2 scrambles respectively - and directly applied the various methods we were taught in the process of doing so. We were also taught about making appropriate gear placements to protect ourselves on longer and steeper pitches, and also began to learn about the techniques to lead-belay effectively.
To wrap up, we even touched on some abseiling so that we could get a good idea of how to get down from a scramble or rock-climb if there is no clear descent - something I particularly enjoyed.
Patrick's teaching made this course a particularly enjoyable and rewarding experience. The amount of knowledge and experience he has was evident from the outset, which enabled us to be taught a wide range of information and skills, and in a lot of depth. Patrick was also very patient and attentive with the both of us - despite us both being beginners, and us learning a great deal over the course of three days, nothing about the course felt rushed, and we were given the time to digest and apply each of the techniques we were taught when we were in the Lake District. He has also been more than willing to answer any questions we have by email now that the course has concluded.
The course was also handled in complete compliance with COVID restrictions, and we were taught both responsibly and safely.
We would both absolutely recommend booking onto a course with Patrick, and though my brother is now going abroad, we will almost certainly be booking a course with him again to gain some winter mountaineering skills!Oscar Murphy22nd April 2021
My husband and I booked a course with Patrick to help us learn to read maps and navigate with the aim of being able to plan and go on walks more independently and feel more confident of not getting lost.
I feel that Patrick really helped us achieve that. We learnt a lot over the course of the day from the basics of which way to hold your map, compasses, map symbols and many useful tips. Patrick have well thought out activities and exercises to illustrate points and allow us to practice what we had just looked at.
Patrick was friendly and helpful, very patient. When I felt quite embarrassed about how little I knew he didn’t make me feel silly at all which was something I was worried about before starting.
Patrick also recommended further resources to access after the course.
I would recommend a course with Patrick for anyone who is wanting to develop navigation skills. I believe this well really enrich our experience as we go out walking more and more.Amanda Sykes14th April 2021
Patrick is my coach for a challenge I set myself a couple of months ago. He provides the support and development to help me reach my goals in adventure racing, and I am so glad that I found him!
Patrick is a man of many things. Highly skilled, professional, supportive, encouraging, and an absolute delight to be around! He is passionate about the outdoors, navigation, and guiding and teaching people the skills required to survive in any environment, and enjoy the journey!
This weekend I completed my first goal, which was passing the Bronze NNAS Navigation award. It covers the basics of navigation, however, for a person like me, with absolutely no background in Navigation or Hiking, I found it a challenge. New vocabulary, new symbols, new everything! Patrick broke things down in a very manageable way, and I can now confidently say that I 'get it'.
Without his support, patience, and encouragement, I wouldn't have passed one of my goals, and I am very grateful. He really went above and beyond.
I am continuing on this journey with him for the next year, and can confidently say that I made the right choice. He is an absolute gem.Nadine Burzler21st December 2020
For anyone looking to develop their outdoor skillset, Patrick at The Summit is Optional is the man to see. He thoroughly explained and simplified instructions and details making learning a straightforward and fun experience. I received my Bronze NNAS Navigation and will definitely be going back to see him when undertaking my silver in 2021. The summit might be optional but, as far as I'm concerned, this choice of instructor should be a must!Alex Matthews18th December 2020
Patrick is one of those guides you know and feel you can trust wholeheartedly within the first five minutes. The amount of material, hands-on practice and level of professionalism were absolutely incredible. Can't wait to continue learning and advancing my trad and multi pitch skills.
Thank you!Omer H12th October 2020
Booked and attended a two day bespoke navigation course in early October. From the point of initial contact, Patrick (owner) offered an absolute fantastic service. From taking the time to fully understand what I wanted to achieve and devising a suitable syllabus through to suggesting and agreeing a suitable location, it was all taken care of effortlessly and professionally.
The course itself was exactly what I was looking for a Patrick delivered a very informative, enjoyable and accessable course. He took the time to carefully explain all the various theory and practical elements and was unfailingly patient whilst we put this into practise. He also made sure that each day we took time to return to the objectives we had devised and review our progress, offering very fair and useful feedback and suggestions for further practise and development after the course.
For anyone looking to develop their outdoor skills, I can highly recommend the Summit is optional. There are plenty of providers out there, and while I cant speak for them, from the moment I made an initial enquiry, I knew I had made a good decision. The whole experience is tailored to your needs and Patrick will help to guide and shape your course as much or as little as you would like.
A quick word on Covid precautions for anyone uncertain, Patrick made sure to adhere to all the required measures throughout the course, he addressed the situation with us directly both before booking and during the course to make sure we were always comfortable and making sure not to put each other at risk. Even with these measures in place, I do not feel that it impacted or detracted from the course in any way.
In summary, a great experience and very good value for money. Highly recommended.Tyler Corbishley6th October 2020
I recently attended a NNAS tutor course with The Summit is Optional.
The instructor, Patrick, was professional and extremely knowledgeable, making for an interesting and enjoyable course, despite the rain, thunder, lightening and hail! Not to mention the restrictions in place due to CV19, which he explained and managed diligently.
I have already recommended both Patrick and this course to others who are keen to gain this qualification, and will do so again here: highly recommended.
Jeffrey
Spartan Associates LtdJeffrey Ford25th September 2020
Patrick is extremely knowledgable, friendly and an excellent teacher. A friend and I booked three days of instruction with Patrick to give us our first experience of climbing outdoors around the Yorkshire Dales. Even before booking the course he gave us loads of useful advice and tips. We learned an incredible amount on each of the three days, much more than we thought we thought possible in a short space of time. There was never any doubt that safety was the first priority for Patrick at all stages of the course, which straight away put us at ease and gave us the best environment to really push ourselves, learn new techniques and skills and have fun. I wouldn't hesitate to book another course with Patrick in the future and would highly recommend The Summit is Optional to anyone looking to learn more about all types of climbing, but especially trad climing.Matthew Wilson24th August 2020
A great three day climbing course (August 2020) – I could not recommend more strongly.
After outlining our goals for the trip, Patrick created an itinerary that covered all of the content we had discussed with him: leading routes, placing gear, building safe anchors etc. He tailored the course to suit our existing skillset and taught us a huge amount whilst answering all our questions along the way. Thank you Patrick!Laura Goldsmith22nd August 2020
I couldn't recommend Patrick more highly. He gave me exactly what I was after - a bespoke 1:1 afternoon to improve my anchor building and ropework technique so I can be quicker and more efficient. Clearly a climber with very solid experience and pragmatic wisdom, he observed my existing skills attentively and then took me through a systematic approach to a range of aspects of setup for my needs. Thanks Patrick!Shirley & Piers Miller9th August 2020
Patrick was super friendly and a great instructor to my two boys and I. He had a clam and insightful style of teaching that really juniors really respond well to.
We had great day abseiling and map reading. Highly recommended!geoff donoghue24th July 2020
We did a 2 day course with Patrick which was well worth it and an amazing experience. He adapted and tailored the things we did throughout the 2 days to accommodate our experience, level and requests. He is very professional with a lot of experience. Absolutely recommend it.Rosie S20th July 2020
A friend and I have just spent two days with Patrick up in Glen Coe where he led us up two classic winter mountaineering routes. I wouldn't hesitate to recommend anybody for Patrick's guiding services, he is extremely knowledgeable on climbing and mountaineering from years of both professional and personal experience. He was consistently very calm and patient, even when we were brutally slapped about by a blizzard on the summit and I had to stop for a snack. I have a small amount of winter mountaineering experience, and after my weekend with Patrick I feel more confident with rope work, moving around roped on steep terrain, and also to trust the two front points of my crampons on miniscule holds! He's also just an all round lovely, friendly person. Whether you're a beginner or someone more experienced looking to sharpen your mountain skills and knowledge, I'd recommend The Summit is Optional!Merelle Aydin20th January 2020
We (4 guys ~ 28yrs) went out for 4 days of tailored winter skills intro with Patrick in the Cairngorms (Dec 2019). We booked with him because he went above and beyond with his initial emails regarding details of weather possibilities, historical conditions, course ideas, personal skill remarks etc. Needless to say this continued throughout the course.
Patrick was both easy going and able to have a laugh/chat with but also when required serious, firm and informative. The transition was always seamless and organic which made the learning process feel very natural for us all. He had answers to all of our questions over the course (with thorough reasons), again went further than he had to at all points of the trip and gave us a solid knowledge foundation through clear communication and emphasis of best practices at all times.
Finally, I got a sense from interactions around town with locals and guides that Patrick is both well-known and well-respected around Aviemore despite not being from the area. Clearly our very positive experience was not a one off.
I felt safe but not molly-coddled, I learned a lot, I had fun. I'd book with Patrick again.Joe Verity-Legg20th December 2019
Patrick took a group of us out to the Cairngorms for an introduction to winter mountaineering skills course. The course was paced appropriately and Patrick was constantly alert to what we needed, and wanted, to get from the course. His knowledge and experience were immediately clear and well-communicated. Daily plans were tailored appropriately and I learned something important from each one. I would fully recommendKane Maskell20th December 2019
During November we booked a weekend with Patrick to complete the Learn to Lead Scrambling course. Patrick spent time understanding our experience and tailored the course to suit. We learned loads and left feeling comfortable that we now had a good grasp of all the skills we need to safely scramble grade 3 routes without a guide. Patrick is extremely knowledgeable and patient and I highly recommend him.Grace Frost8th December 2019
Trying out climbing was something I'd been meaning to do for ages. I thought I'd go ahead and book a one on one session with someone who could show me the ropes (literally) and I'm really glad I did. First off booking the session made it something I would actually do not eventually do. And having guidance from an expert meant that I was getting the full experience. Before the session Patrick was quick to respond to emails and questions so I already felt in safe hands. And the session itself felt thorough and Patrick's expertise was clear. Trying new sports as an adult can feel a bit daunting but I felt comfortable asking Patrick any questions I had. I could tell he was keen that I have the best experience possible. And I did. I really enjoyed the climbing and after the session Patrick offered me lots of advice and guidance on where to go next if I want to persue climbing. I think I will!Aaron Onuora4th December 2019
Booked a 3 day scrambling course in Glencoe with Patrick and it was amazing!
My friend wanted to push herself and get into scrambling, she isn't great with heights and has only been up Helvellyn, she wanted to overcome her fears and achieve some goals. I have done scrambling before so knew a little bit but i also wanted to bag a few Munro's.
Patrick was fantastic, he catered for both our needs and we both came away with a wealth of knowledge. My friend pushed herself and achieved her goal of doing a grade 3 scramble and i learnt loads to help me improve and bagged 3 more Munro's 🙂 We were delighted with every aspect of the trip and would 110% recommend Patrick. He is an excellent instructor, extremely knowledgeable and really patient. Can't wait to book another trip!Emma Atherton30th September 2019
I have completed a few courses with Patrick consisting of climbing, scrambling and navigation.
He is extremely knowledgeable and very professional in his work along with being friendly and easy to get along with. He will manage each day to your specific needs making sure you gain experience by explaining each process throughout the course along with answering any questions you may have giving you valuable information to take away.Callum Coxhead18th September 2019
Patrick's passion for mountaineering is highly infectious; and he is equally passionate about sharing his expansive knowledge and skills to equip you with the right tools to pursue it. Out on the mountains, the same set of knowledge and skills inspire confidence so that I know I can take risks in order to up my game. Great show of leadership and control through difficult situations. When the weather turns unfavourable, he presents risks and alternatives rather than flat out saying something's impossible unless it actually is too dangerous and impossible. Every trip I've been to with TSIO has been the best time of my life.Sherima Tepenn Amilhamja17th September 2019
I've been out twice with Patrick (owner of TSiO). First off he took myself and my partner up Helvellyn and onto the Priest Hole Cave on a glorious September day. Patrick gave some great instruction on map reading and navigation, as well being knowledgable in picking a safe route to the cave (which you shouldn't attempt without a guide). On another day, Patrick took me and another in the group for two days scrambling in Snowdonia. Patrick is hugely experienced, great company and an excellent communicator. I would highly recommend him if you are looking for someone to guide you or instruct you in some of the more technical aspects of mountaineering, climbing or scrambling. He's an International Mountain Leader and has climbed all over the world.Lawrence Bromley13th September 2019
Patrick is an Excellent provider. I thoroughly enjoyed participating on the NNAS Tutor training with his relaxed and friendly style of delivery.Nigel Addy4th September 2019
Patrick is great! I've had two 1:1 courses with him. Trad multi pitch skills and self rescue skills. Both courses were tailored to my requirements. They were fun and I felt confident in what I had learnt. We even went for a beer afterwards.Thomas Puddy3rd September 2019
Patrick took my friend and I to a winter mountaineering skills intro course in Cairngorms. Skilled and friendly guide!Vincent ADAM3rd September 2019
Reviews on Facebook
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Had the most amazing 3 days scrambling and Munro bagging in Glencoe with Patrick this week. Day 1 took us up Stob Dearg via Curved Ridge and Crowberry Tower which was fantastic and so was the weather! This route is defo a most do if you are thinking of going! Day 2 we went up Ben Nevis via Ledge Route and despite the rain we had another awesome day, the scrambling was fab and the North Face is truly magnificent! Another must do route, even with the massive bog at the end 🤣 Day 3 we aimed to get up Aonach Dubh but the weather was shocking and we admitted defeat half way up, but the pub lunch was yum and my legs were grateful! Patrick was very patient and knowledgeable throughout the trip, i felt safe at all times and would 110% recommend a scrambling course with him. The scrambling was extremely fun, the evenings were hilarious, we had such a great time! Whatever you do don't mention the Mysterons 🙈🤣 
Emma Samantha Atherton
17th August 2019 I had the best day Rock Climbing at Almscliffe Crag with Patrick, this was my first time climbing and I was made to feel comfortable, safe and supported throughout. I learnt so much and even when I struggled, Patrick was extremely patient and motivational with his supportive words and advice that kept me going, I felt I have achieved something amazing that I wouldn't of been able to do without him and also thoroughly enjoyed the day which was well needed! Thank you Patrick, looking forward to more outdoor adventures! 🧗♀️☺️ 
Sophie Olivia Robson
22nd July 2019 - I booked Patrick for a private rock climbing improvers course (19th and 20th June 2019) and could not have been happier. Patrick understood everything I wanted to achieve and designed a flexible 2 day session which improved my climbing skills, my decision making and most importantly has given me the confidence to take my climbing to the next stage. I highly recommend Patrick to anyone who wants to progress… A fantastic few days of climbing and instruction.
Alan McGing
24th June 2019 I struggled scrambling due to my huge fear of heights, which I wanted to beat, and Patrick helped all the way through! Great support in achieving a personal goal ❤️ 
Mara Panozzo
1st March 2019 - Patrick arranged three great days of mountaineering in the Cairngorms for my friend and I. He was very flexible on the program, and careful to adapt it to our needs and expectations so we can best improve our mountaineering skills. He was constantly sharing great tips and his knowledge of mountaineering in general was impressive. Also his knowledge of the area was very useful as he was still able to find interesting routes and things to do despite the uncooperative weather. Patrick was also friendly and nice, and we very much enjoyed his company in the mountains. We had a lot of fun building snow caves and emergency shelters as we had asked him to specifically cover that. Highly recommended!
Cyprien de Masson
19th February 2019 I have just completed a one day taster in lead trad climbing with Patrick. The course was excellent. He invested time in establishing clearly what our goals for the day were and clearly gave a lot of thought as to how we would achieve these. His approach was flexible; the weather was not conducive to doing everything outdoors but he managed to adapt and keep us on track by moving indoors where there was more to be learnt relevant to trad climbing than I would have imagined! His approach was engaging and thought provoking and his exercises and explanations were all very clear. I would certainly consider doing another course with him. 
Johnathan Todd
2nd December 2018 - Patrick arranged an absolutely fantastic introductory climbing session for our 15 year old son, who is mad keen on climbing but has never been on real rock before. The Cow and Calf at Ilkley was a great choice of site, and Patrick was brilliant at tailoring the progression of climbs according to the circumstances and explained everything very clearly. Safety was never in any doubt at any stage. Very highly recommended indeed, thanks Patrick!
Kevin Gale
31st October 2018
I'm still on the high from last weekend when I got to climb with Patrick in Snowdonia. Driven by my passion for multi-pitch routes and a desire to better understand the mechanics of trad climbing I booked this course with Patrick and it did not disappoint! I learned an incredible amount in just two days surrounded by some of the most stunning scenery on earth. I completed my longest route to date ('Hope' on Idwal Slabs) and even got to do an abseil! I can't thank Patrick enough for his professionalism, sharing his expertise and for making sure I got the most out of my time on the rock 🙂 
Rachel Parker
26th July 2018 - My fiance and I had a fantastic day trying out multi-pitch trad climbing, scrambling and basic navigation with Patrick. He was excellent at tailoring the day to my level of experience and needs. A truly safe pair of hands, with good taste for the local brew. Thanks again Patrick!
Anthony Harrison
13th July 2018 Many thanks to Patrick for a thoroughly enjoyable two days doing my silver NNAS course. Not only is he extremely knowledgeable and experienced but he is also excellent at conveying things in the right way for his audience. Very patient and flexible and inspires confidence - I learned more than I expected to. Thanks very much. 
Helen Collier
28th June 2018 - I had a great time with Patrick on the navigation course. I learned a lot and enjoyed being out in the Welsh mountains. Everything was well organised and taught - and the hostel is one of the best!
Mike David
20th April 2018 The advanced scrambling course in Wales was great, enabling me to achieve heights I wouldn't have, without the safety and guidance from a skilled leader. Thanks Patrick 
Laura Coy
16th April 2018 - Top notch map reading and navigation course with Patrick, who is as patient and professional as he is knowledgeable! Highly recommended. Loved every minute, and am looking forward to putting into practice everything that I have learnt. Thank you so much, Patrick!
Siân Morris-Tait
8th April 2018 I had an incredible time with Patrick stepping it up and taking on some winter climbing for the first time! He tailored the 3 days based on my goals, made each day fun despite the terrible weather and I felt that I'd come away with a ton of knowledge and confidence. Cheers Patrick! Maybe next year at Aonach Eagach? 
Advait Kapadia
27th February 2018 - A huge thanks Patrick for giving us the opportunity to climb in the Cairngorms this week .. it would not of been possible without you and you made the experience fun (type 2 of course). Winter climbing can be difficult at the best of times but with your high standards of professionalism and safety we were able to relax and enjoy the climbing will definitely be seeing you again x
Angela Moroney
16th January 2018 Had a great weekend of winter climbing in Fort William! I have learnt so much from Patrick and enjoyed my time ! It was a pleasant experience, a real hard work climbing in such a cold weather however Patrick can turn it to a real achievement by giving the full confidence, support and safety needed .. definitely will do much more of that and i hope I can be an experienced climber one day. 
Nour Bassatne
7th January 2018 - After a weekend of scrambling in Snowdonia and being lucky enough to have great weather with the most amazing views it is very easy for me to recommend Patrick as your guide. Having a panic attack climbing the north gully of Tryfan Patrick gave me the coaching and confidence to succeed to the summit of the North Ridge of Tryfan. What a sense of achievement. Patrick starts the weekend with a talk on how the body changes temperature in the various elements of the weather, including wind chill and what happens if clothing gets wet from either rain or sweat. He then explains why it is essential to have the right kit and the success of any adventure is being prepared.
Thank you Patrick and I look forward to the next adventure.
Fiona Love
20th November 2017 I had a 10/10 weekend in Snowdonia scrambling with Patrick back in July and had an absolute blast! The scrambles we did were stunning and pretty challenging for someone who's never done any scrambling before but I felt completely comfortable the whole time. Patrick is very focused on safety and explaining the basics of rope work, navigation and weather, but always checks in with the group to make sure everyone is having fun (be that type 1 fun or type 2 fun!). I learned some cool new knots, had some tasty pub dinners after long days, and will definitely be back for more! 
Jacqueline Towers
16th October 2017 - An excellent day out yesterday on a National Navigation Award Scheme tutor course. Many thanks for all the ideas and the great company.
Andrew Foxon
28th September 2017 I completed the two day NNAS Bronze course with Patrick in Ilkley and learnt so much from it.
Starting with an introduction to using different maps, we then looked at contours and compass work followed by distance measuring and route planning.
Patrick is very knowledgeable and made sure I understood what was being taught before moving onto the next thing and was able to answer any questions I had.
I have taken away a lot of skills from the course and now have the confidence to go out and practice.
I would highly recommend booking onto a course with Patrick and I will be again in the future. 
Callum Coxhead
22nd September 2017
Reviews on Trip Advisor
- charlottebH1572DJ
We completed a two day learn to lead climb in the Peak District. It was brilliant, and finished the course confidently leading a climb on our own. Patrick was patient,... read more 
6/08/2021Louise C Thank you to Patrick for helping to make this experience enjoyable and safe. I booked Patrick to help me and my boyfriend George hike up and down Scafell Pike -... read more
5/28/2021 - CatyByrne2 Patrick was really friendly and knowledgeable. We requested a bespoke 1 day course on navigation. We gave him a challenge in that of our group of two, one is a... read more
5/26/2021abz123nul My friend and I attended a basic navigation course with Patrick this month and we really enjoyed it. We gave him a challenge as both of us were at different... read more
4/26/2021 - AmandaJayBee My husband and I booked a course with Patrick to help us learn to read maps and navigate with the aim of being able to plan and go on walks... read more
4/14/2021NadineBurzler1 Patrick is my coach for a challenge I set myself a couple of months ago. He provides the support and development to help me reach my goals in adventure racing,... read more
12/21/2020 - matthewwH9189GG A friend and I booked three days of instruction with Patrick to give us our first experience of climbing outdoors around the Yorkshire Dales. Even before booking the course he... read more
8/24/2020Laura G After outlining our goals for the trip, Patrick created an itinerary that covered all of the content we had discussed with him: leading routes, placing gear, building safe anchors etc.... read more
8/22/2020 - PiersMiller I couldn't recommend Patrick more highly. He gave me exactly what I was after - a bespoke 1:1 afternoon to improve my anchor building and ropework technique so I can... read more
8/09/2020355rosies We did a 2 day course with Patrick which was well worth it and an amazing experience. He adapted and tailored the things we did throughout the 2 days to... read more
7/20/2020 - GraceFrost93 During November we booked a weekend with Patrick to complete the Learn to Lead Scrambling course. Patrick spent time understanding our experience and tailored the course to suit. We learned... read more
12/08/2019614aarono Trying out climbing was something I'd been meaning to do for ages. I thought I'd go ahead and book a one on one session with someone who could show me... read more
12/04/2019 - Adamlozza81 Absolutely loved every minute of the one to one session , highly recommend this as the whole day was packed with brilliant information, Patrick from the Start was professional and... read more
11/20/2019Gareth C I thoroughly enjoyed the course and found it very useful. Patrick delivered informative sessions throughout the day and I picked up plenty of useful tips to enable me to deliver... read more
11/14/2019 - CallumCoxhead I have completed a few courses with Patrick consisting of climbing, scrambling and navigation.
He is extremely knowledgeable and very professional in his work along with being friendly and easy... read more
9/18/2019RurouniShiri Patrick's passion for mountaineering is highly infectious; and he is equally passionate about sharing his expansive knowledge and skills to equip you with the right tools to pursue it. Out... read more
9/17/2019 - Lawrence B I've been out twice with Patrick (owner of TSiO). First off he took myself and my partner up Helvellyn and onto the Priest Hole Cave on a glorious September day.... read more
9/13/2019Nige0_3 Patrick is an Excellent provider. I thoroughly enjoyed participating on the NNAS Tutor training with his relaxed and friendly style of delivery.
9/04/2019 - thomaspuddy Patrick is great! I've had two 1:1 courses with him. Trad multi pitch skills and self rescue skills. Both courses were tailored to my requirements. They were... read more
9/03/2019Dream689818 Very professional, experienced and fantastic knowledge on top of being a great educator. Fully recommend Patrick for anyone pursuing to learn or expand any outdoor related skills.
9/02/2019
