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.
Who we are
Organisation News
Governance
The Board of the British Mountaineering Council (BMC) today announces that Interim Chair of the Board, John Willmott, will step down from his position as Senior Independent Director on 30 May 2025.
Governance
The British Mountaineering Council (BMC) is delighted to announce the appointment of Catherine Hawkins as Chair of its Board of Directors. Catherine will commence her term in June 2025, bringing with her a wealth of leadership experience and a deep-rooted passion for outdoor recreation and conservation.
News
At it’s recent Members Open Forum the British Mountaineering Council (BMC) shared their budget priorities for the 2025/2026 financial year.
Governance
The board of the British Mountaineering Council (BMC) today announces that Joanna Coates is stepping down from her position as Nominated Director on the 18 March 2025.
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
Our services
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.