Reviews on Google
Patrick came Recommended to myself from my partner who had walked/scrambled with him before. So when I started preparations for doing my first alpine climb (The Matterhorn) and needed some training, she suggested I contacted him.
I’m so glad I did
Patrick used his endless experience to put my mind at ease and took me out for some experience in snowdonia covering the similar ground I need to be working with.
Whether it was the basics from kit questions and working through How I might want to pack my rucksack to the rope skills and learning on how to work with a guide it was no bother for him! Fantastic couple of days! Thank you PatrickDavid Fellows19th June 2022
My friend and I completed a Winter Mountaineering course in Scotland with Patrick in March 2022.
From the outset, it was clear that Patrick has a wealth of knowledge and experience, including an exceptional understanding of safety protocols, weather/avalanche awareness, and all-round mountaineering best practices.
Patrick is obviously a reflective individual, eager to incorporate the experiences of others to refine his own skillset. This shows strongly in the robust, logical and coherent approaches he adopts.
We would like to highlight that Patrick was very good at identifying our requirements and shaping our course accordingly. His teaching was on-point; our learning was effortless.
All in all, we thoroughly enjoyed our time with Patrick and we wouldn’t hesitate to recommend his courses. Indeed, we will be working with him again in the not-too-distant future!Neil Thomas11th April 2022
My husband did this course today and found it very useful and found Patrick a very nice person with lots of patience with me...thank you and will highly recommendLuisa Melidoni29th March 2022
Made the best of challenging weather! Great preparation for upcoming Nepal tripJames Riches12th March 2022
Having been away from the winter hills since 2018, I recently undertook a refresh of my winter skills with Patrick. From my initial enquiry Patrick was helpful and communicative. After a phone call to understand what I needed, we planned the 3 days by email. Patrick was in touch a few days before the start of the course to confirm details and then we met on the first morning to look at the plans for the day given the prevailing avalanche and weather forecasts. Patrick is excellent at guaging his level of input to provide the most useful balance of learning and personal challenge and this was a welcome part of the 3 days. I planned the details for the following 2 days, and we discussed these each morning with Patrick again providing opportunities for embedding knowledge and for further learning and development. Each day we were out together I felt safe, supported to develop and appropriately challenged. As a WMCI, Patrick obviously has all the technical skills and experience to provide the best learning opportunity. What he also has is fantastic 'softer' people skills and is empathetic. We had many useful conversations about the psychological factors involved in mountaineering and these are especially important in the winter environment.
I would wholly recommend Patrick as a skilled and experienced mountain professional who also has the people and human skills to provide the most appropriate and nuanced days for clients. Patrick puts you immediately at ease and does all he can to ensure that you get the most benefit out of the days you spend together. I'm hoping to do more with Patrick in future and in the meantime wish him every success.David Lea19th February 2022
We did a winter skills course with Patrick. As someone who had never done any winter mountaineering, there was a lot of information to take in but Patrick managed to make it all understandable and not too overwhelming. Even before the day, he was very helpful and willing to give advice.
The climb was a lot of fun with a good mix of skills to practice.
All in all a great day - would definitely book on another course with Patrick!Dan Ashurst17th February 2022
Did a one day winter skills course with Patrick as a group of 5 with mixed abilities which he catered for perfectly. We had a great day and learnt lots of new skills with just the right amount of peril! Shame we only had one day. Can’t wait for the next snowy adventure now!Chloe Waldron15th February 2022
Had great day in Glen Coe learning basic winter skills with Patrick. His advice and guidance were perfectly pitched to my abilities and what I wanted to get out of the day. I feel much better informed about how to plan a safe-day, the essential kit for winter and, importantly, how to use it. Would highly recommend Patrick to anyone looking to learn or improve their mountain skills.tom parrish12th February 2022
After a fantastic experience on a scrambling course with Patrick in April 2021, my brother and I were keen to book him again to take us through the basics of winter hiking this January. On both occasions, Patrick was responsive and easy to communicate with, and developed an exciting itinerary tailored to our goals and experience. Despite the meagre winter conditions earlier this season, Patrick was able to lead us to the remaining snow on Stob Coire Nan Lochan and the north face of Ben Nevis, delivering a comprehensive education in avalanche safety, moving safely and efficiently on snow, use of an ice axe and crampon techniques. The greatest merit of Patrick's teaching is his depth of knowledge and clear, logical and patient approach. We have come away both times completely satisfied with our experience, and with the confidence to safely practise our newfound skills independently. We highly recommend Patrick and will certainly look to book with him in the future when we are ready to take our skills up a notch!Rory Murphy7th February 2022
My wife and I had a great time at Stanage Edge on a beginners Rock Climbing session. Patrick was very friendly, knowledgeable and patient with us as we (literally) learnt the ropes of rock climbing. Patrick was very good at tailoring the session to what we wanted, even after having to reschedule after being attacked my midges on our first attempt. Would highly recommend to anyone wanting to give Rock Climbing a go!Sam Goldsworthy12th October 2021
Had a great couple of days in Snowdonia with Patrick who gave as a good introduction to trad climbing. We managed to cover the majority of the basics of trad (protection placement, anchor building, rope management etc) and had the opportunity to try them out in a way that felt safe. Patrick was also very knowledgeable and able to answer our questions. As and when I am looking for further training, I expect I will go with TSIO again!Alex Woolley26th September 2021
Robert Taylor21st September 2021
Patrick was amenable, adaptable and very generous with his time and knowledge from the start. He took me and my girlfriend on a multipitch climbing day and gave us the skills required to go out and do it ourselves the next day. We had already been climbing single pitch for a while and wanted to expand our climbing into longer routes.
In the space of a few pitches, Patrick showed us the various ways to make belays, swap leads, block lead, manage the rope and stances (including abseiling) and many many other small tips that make a big difference out on the rock. We would both whole heartedly recommend Patrick for any mountaineering course, or guiding that you require because you can tell that he loves what he does and his experience shines through in his efficient teaching and his calm manner. All in all, a really good day, a top bloke and lasting skills that should see us through some adventures yet. Thank you, Patrick!Fionn Coughlan-Wills18th September 2021
While on holiday in Wales during the summer Me and my partner realised we were missing out on a great selection of climbing, as we had very limited experience on multi pitch routes and didn’t have the knowledge to tackle routes confidently. We approached Patrick and asked if he’d be able to help us learn and develop some of the skills needed for multi pitch. We had a day with Patrick at Tryfan Bach where he taught us about rope management, belaying stance, different type of anchors and the different techniques for swing or block leading. He gave us loads of tips and advice for climbing safely and confidently. Patrick was extremely knowledgeable, professional and friendly. Tailoring the day specifically to us, our climbing ability and what we wanted to get out of the day. We both really enjoyed the day and learnt lots!Mary Amos17th September 2021
Highly enjoyable and useful navigation course in the Lake District. Patrick improved my map-reading skills and gave me detailed contour training for my ML assessment. He is very user-friendly and tailored the experience very well to hone practical nav skills and boost my confidence.Hilary Watchman8th September 2021
Me and my friend recently did an outdoor learn to lead course with Patrick. We both have a fair bit of experience indoor leading and outdoor bouldering and Patrick was able to tailor the course exactly to our needs, focussing mainly on gear placement, setting up anchors and general safety. Patrick was a great teacher and wasn't afraid to challenge us; by the end of the second day we had both managed to lead our first route (Walewska (VS 4c) at Ilkley quarry) without the safety of a top rope. Going forward we both feel confident that we can tackle routes elsewhere on our own, which is exactly what we wanted to get out of the course. All in all it was a great course and I would highly recommend it.Alex Mann20th August 2021
Enjoyed a brilliant 3 day Advanced Scrambling Course with Patrick. Challenging but manageable scrambling. Clear instruction throughout.John Hayes18th August 2021
Took a two day navigation course, covered a wide range of topics. I walked away at the end of course with a good grasp of the concepts and most importantly skills and confidence to tackle terrain.
The course is well laid out as easy to understand building blocks. Patrick is extremely concise in his instructions and structured in the manner it's delivered. Consequently, you are neither overwhelmed nor bored and it helps to keep one's focus on the task. Overall highly satisfied and would recommend. There is no substitute for field work and face to face instructions and that's what's delivered.Feroz Farooqui9th August 2021
I have been hiking in the mountains for many years now but only recently managed to book a navigation course to brush on my skills. It had to be Patrick as he is very good in his profession. I have booked a two-day navigation course for my husband and I. Patrick was extremely professional and kept us busy and motivated at all times. First day we spent getting used to the terrain, reading the map and covering the basics of navigation. The second day Patrick had raised the bar and took us into a more demanding terrain where we had to navigate just looking at the contours. It was a fantastic weekend filled with loads of information, practice and skills to be polished. If you think about brushing up on your mountaineering, navigation or climbing skills I would highly recommend Patrick. He will adapt the course to your level of knowledge, he will make it challenging if you are up for it and also bring some fun in forms of games. He is very patient and answers all of the questions you might have, no matter how silly they may sound to you. Thanks Patrick for a great time.Mountain Tales5th August 2021
Patrick was so knowledgeable about scrambling and my son and husband had an amazing time in Langdale, scrambling up side of ghylls and waterfalls. I initially contacted him to guide us up Hellvelyn, but decided after a great conversation to do Langdale area and so glad we did. Patrick also taught my son all about the flora, fauna and rocks in the area and safety was paramount supplying them with helmets and going through routes and options to check everyone was happy before proceeding.
If you want to experience scrambling safe in the knowledge that you will be well looked after and learn a lot, then definitely book with Patrick. We will definitely be using his services again next year.Emma dallamore24th July 2021
My boyfriend and I recently done a 1 day course on advanced scrambling and rope work with Patrick. The course was very informative and we learned multiple techniques that we can use to tackle Grade 2 and 3 scrambles in the future. Patrick was very knowledgeable and made the day very enjoyable.Grace Imeson22nd July 2021
My girlfriend and I had a great 2 day climbing course with Patrick in Snowdonia. He tailored the content perfectly to our level and goals, and gave us some great recommendations for local spots where we could continue practicing on our own. Highly Recommended!Tom Teulon6th July 2021
Patrick is a great guide. Could not have climbed Scafel Pike without his encouragement. He made the experience very enjoyable. Full of tips, knowledge and a few jokes! We laughed a lot and conversation was easy. Nothing was too much trouble. We were probably slower than the average people but we never felt rushed. A superb experience.Sharon Heater27th June 2021
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
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
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
- X3249ADdavidf
I required some intro training for my first alpine adventure coming up in July(the Matterhorn), and contacted Patrick to see if he could help.
We went out for 2... read more
19th June 2022R6148RNneilt My friend and I completed a Winter Mountaineering course in Scotland with Patrick in March 2022.
From the outset, it was clear that Patrick has a wealth of knowledge... read more
11th April 2022
