About the BMC

The British Mountaineering Council is the national representative body that champions the interests of climbers, hill walkers, mountaineers and ski mountaineers in England and Wales. We are a membership organisation and represent over 85,000 members. We are also recognised by government as the national governing body for competition climbing.

How the BMC is run

Organisation News

Governance

Julie Smith appointed as Head of Finance at the British Mountaineering Council

The British Mountaineering Council (BMC) announces the appointment of Julie Smith as its Head of Finance effective 2 December 2024.

12 Tach
2 min read
11 Rhag 2024

Governance

December BMC Open Forum

As part of our ongoing commitment in creating new opportunities for members to keep up to date with BMC news and activities we are running a series of BMC Open Forum sessions.

22 Ion 2025

Governance

Clubs Open Forum

As part of our ongoing commitment in creating new opportunities for members to keep up to date with BMC news and activities we are running a Clubs Open Forum.

Governance

BMC welcomes four new members to the Members' Council

Following the September Members' Council meeting, the BMC is pleased to welcome four new representatives who bring unique expertise and passion to the Council.

14 Hyd
4 min read

Our Vision

To create a better future for climbers, hill walkers and mountaineers.

Our Purpose

To represent the interests of climbers, hill walkers and mountaineers and inspire all generations.

Our Values

Community: We are the voice for our diverse community of climbers, hill walkers and mountaineers.

Adventure: We believe in the freedom to challenge ourselves, taking personal responsibility for the risks.

Sustainability: We protect our crags and mountains, campaign for improved access and promote environmental sustainability.

Aspiration: We help people improve their skills, confidence and achieve personal ambitions.

Respect: We celebrate the rich variety of British climbing, hill walking and mountaineering; we build inclusive relationships and respect each other.

Our 2020-2024 Mission

We will link the work of all our staff, volunteers, clubs, and partners, to campaign effectively and increase engagement, becoming a stronger voice for climbers, hill walkers and mountaineers.

BMC Local Areas

The BMC divides England and Wales into ten geographical areas: Cymru North Wales; Cymru South Wales; Lakes; London & SE; Midlands; North East; North West; Peak; South West; Yorkshire. BMC Areas provide a focus for local activities and are instrumental in driving national policy. Each BMC Area holds five meetings a year, and each precedes a meeting of the Council, to enable members to make their views known and be communicated to the Council.

Specialist Committees

The BMC relies on a well-established structure of voluntary committees, supported by staff, to develop and oversee much of the organisation’s technical work for members. We classify our Board committees into two categories 'standard' and 'specialist'. The work of the Specialist Committees covers: Access & Conservation, Safeguarding, Clubs, Equity, Hill Walking, Huts, International Mountaineering, Land Management, Technical Equipment, Training, Youth & Walls

A brief history of the BMC

Climbing, hill walking and mountaineering can provide life-long physical, social and mental health benefits through exercise and adventure in amazing environments. The BMC recognises these activities involve a risk of personal injury or death. Participants should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions and involvement.
BMC Participation Statement

Join and support the BMC today

Join the BMC today and be a part of an 80,000 strong community of passionate individuals who are working to protect the places we love for future generations.

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