Classic Rock: Great British Rock Climbs

Ken Wilson's compilation provides an introduction to climbing areas the length and breadth of Britain. Many of the climbs were at the 'cutting edge' fifty or more years ago and each essay describes the history or significance of a climb and provides a kind of 'way in' to each crag or mountain area - often written by climbers who were pioneers of their day. The authors are people like Jim Perrin, W.H. Murray and Nea Morin - to me, some of the finest climbing writers of their generation.

By modern standards, these are not hard climbs. Rather, they are climbs for the competent adventure climber with a feel for the history and tradition of mountaineering. But to categorise and dismiss these climbs as easy (they have been dubbed 'soft rock') and therefore not worthwhile is to miss the point. We climbed 'Integrity' (now VS) on Skye and 'Tophet Wall' in the Lake District when the rock was warm and the sun shone. Both of these days were sheer joy. 'Great Gully' in the Carneddau, in heavy rain and strong winds at the end of October was frightening, ended in the dark and was an altogether different proposition. But all have been an experience; many an adventure.

And that is what Classic Rock is all about. It will provide a wealth of inspiration and, over the course of a few years, cherished memories for the ingenue and more experienced climber alike. This is a book to be read and used by mountaineers who can enjoy climbing at any level, but who seek an insight into the history, origins and variety of our pastime. Although more of a coffee table book than a pocket guide, this is an outstanding collection of essays about middle grade mountaineering in Britain.