Established in 1991, Bangor University Mountain Walking Club (UMWC) has had the privilege of introducing thousands of young people to the fantastic world of mountaineering. Our aim is to make the great outdoors more accessible, encourage safe and well informed behavior, and inspire others to pursue activities in the mountains not just here in Wales, but the world over.
Although the Club's home is on the slate-strewn peaks of Snowdonia National Park, we venture across the UK to other mountainous regions whenever possible. So as well as our weekly trips out into Snowdonia, we run an Away Trip every year to locations such as the Brecon Beacons and Lake District National Parks.
We run weekly walks every Saturday venturing across the length and breadth of Snowdonia National Park, from the Carneddau in the north right down to Cadair Idris in the south. Catering to a wide range of skill levels, the UMWC sees it all - weather permitting! We run a group for every ability:
Lowland - A relaxed group for those without much or any prior experience, but are interested in having a great day out in the mountains.
Hill - New again this year, for those looking for more of a challenge, Hill Group completes a broader array of walks and occasional scrambles whilst still maintaining a relaxed atmosphere.
Mountain/Scramble - For more experienced walkers willing to push themselves, Mountain/ Scramble Group do longer, more challenging routes along with scrambles.
Socials are weekly on Tuesday, at 8:00pm in The Castle Inn! (on the hight street) Pop along to hangout with other members, play board games and just generally have a chill time!
Located just off Bangor high street, we're more than willing to give directions - just pop us a message.
We also often meet up on Saturdays for post-walk pints - join our messenger group chat for the location (our go-to is to relax in bar uno or go lose horribly at a Pub-Quiz).
Throughout the year we run a mixture of trips, events, and training across the UK! These are open to all registered members and are usually subsidised using the clubs own funds.
Away Trips - Five days in the mountains getting soaked to your skin with great people and a warm bunk at the end of the day.
Summer Trips - Multi-day hikes, serious scrambles, and wild camps.
Night Walks & Bothy trips - Starry nights and sunrises + good company = happiness.
Social events - fundraising events, Christmas meal, film nights and more.
First Aid & Mountain Skills courses
-How often do you meet?
We have our walks every Saturday throughout the year, including through most holidays!
-What should I wear?
Since we are in the Welsh outdoors, appropriate gear needs to be worn, including 2L of water, waterproofs, lunch and snacks (we could be out for 6 hours on some routes), and ankle-supporting walking boots and warm layers as appropriate for the forecast and remember it can be 10 degrees colder on the top of the hills compared to Bangor.
-I don't have all the kit, what should I do?
You can borrow it! As a club, we have a wide range of kit to borrow and it's completely free for club walks! Just put what gear you need and your size on the sign-up forms, and we'll bring it on the day. You can also rent it out for your own adventures. Also, we do charge a small fee for this. If you would like to know what kit we have available, have a look at our equipment list and fill the request form. And if you're unsure on sizing, speak to a committee member or message us on socials or email.
-What is expected of me on walks?
Since all the walks are led, you don't need to do any navigation, but we do ask that you respect and listen to the leaders and other members so everyone can have an enjoyable day out.
-I'm not sure what level of walk I should go on. Which should I do?
For the first couple of weeks, we will only run a lowland and a slower, shorter mountain walk to make the decision easier, but if you are unsure, it's always easier to start on something easier and work up, or come along to our route planning sessions on Friday night and have a chat with the leaders.
-I have a medical condition, can I still come on walks?
We try to be accommodating of as many conditions as possible; however, we are often three 3 hours away from professional medical help, so please let us know of any conditions and check with your doctor if this is a good idea. But if you want to ask about it, please contact the inclusivity and well-being officer, Oliver at lvw23svn@bangor.ac.uk or come speak to any committee member.
-Do I need to come every week?
No! We have lots of members who only join us on a few walks throughout the year, so you're welcome to come as often as you like.
-What students' union pass do I need?
You only need a silver! You also get two free sessions with us throughout the year before you need to pay. If you have any questions around this please feel free to speak to any committee member or contact the students' union.
A few years ago the club has featured in a TV advert for the university with some club members getting their 10 seconds of fame! Worth it despite the 4 am wake-ups.