Understanding Peak-Bagging and the UK’s Most Popular Hill Lists
For those who love the mountains, the UK offers an incredible array of challenges that cater to all levels of experience. From the rugged peaks of Scotland to the rolling hills of England and Wales, there’s a list for every hillwalker. Whether you’re looking to climb the highest peaks in a single day or explore a collection of lesser-known summits, the UK’s peak-bagging scene is rich and diverse.
Peak-bagging is the act of climbing and recording a series of specific mountain summits. It’s like a mountain-themed bucket list, where each summit represents a personal achievement. This activity can range from casual hikes to intense multi-day expeditions, depending on the list you choose. The satisfaction comes not just from reaching the top but from the journey itself—building endurance, learning about the landscape, and developing a deeper connection with nature.
There are dozens of hill lists across the UK, each with its own criteria and unique appeal. Some are based on height, others on prominence, geography, or even subjective choices. For example, the Wainwrights are a set of 214 peaks in the Lake District, while the Munros are Scotland’s highest mountains over 3000ft. These lists provide structure and purpose, turning a simple walk into a meaningful challenge.
The Wainwrights: A Classic Challenge in the Lake District
The Wainwrights are perhaps the most famous hill list in the UK. Named after Alfred Wainwright, these 214 peaks were immortalized in his seven Pictorial Guides to the Lakeland Fells. Each guidebook was meticulously researched and illustrated, offering detailed information for hikers exploring the Lake District. The list includes everything from gentle hills to more challenging summits, making it accessible to both beginners and experienced walkers.
Bagging all 214 Wainwrights is a lifelong goal for many. While some complete the list in a matter of weeks, others take years, enjoying the journey along the way. The flexibility of the list allows hikers to choose their own route and pace, making it a deeply personal adventure.
The Munros: Scotland’s Highest Peaks
For those seeking a more demanding challenge, the Munros offer a true test of skill and endurance. These 282 peaks in the Scottish Highlands are over 3000ft high and named after Sir Hugo Munro, who first catalogued them in 1891. The list has evolved over time, with some peaks being reclassified due to changes in elevation measurements.
Completing the Munros is a monumental task. Some have done it in record time, while others have taken months or even years. The youngest person to complete the list was just 10 years old, proving that age isn’t always a barrier. Whether you tackle the list in a single season or spread it out over several years, the experience is unforgettable.
The Corbetts: A Great Alternative for Scottish Walkers
If the Munros seem too daunting, the Corbetts offer a slightly less intimidating option. These 222 peaks in the Scottish Highlands range between 2500ft and 3000ft and require a drop of at least 500ft between each summit. Named after John Rooke Corbett, the list was originally compiled by a member of the Scottish Mountaineering Club.
While often considered “lesser” than the Munros, the Corbetts include some of Scotland’s most stunning landscapes. Peaks like The Cobbler and Merrick are renowned for their dramatic views and challenging terrain. They provide a great opportunity to explore parts of the Highlands that might otherwise be overlooked.
The Marilyns: Exploring Relative Heights
The Marilyns are a unique list that focuses on relative height rather than absolute elevation. Created by Alan Dawson in his 1992 book The Relative Hills of Britain, this list includes hills with a drop of at least 150m on all sides. The original list focused on Scotland, but the concept has since been applied to other regions in the UK and Ireland.
With over 1500 peaks, the Marilyns offer a vast and varied challenge. Completing the list requires a deep understanding of the landscape and a commitment to exploration. In 2016, Jenny Hatfield became the first woman to complete all 1557 Marilyns, marking a significant milestone in peak-bagging history.
Other Notable Lists: From Furths to Tumps
Beyond the well-known lists, there are many other options for hillwalkers. The Furths, for example, include peaks over 3000ft outside of Scotland, such as Helvellyn and Tryfan. The UK County Tops list covers the highest point of each county, offering a comprehensive tour of the British countryside.
The Tumps, a quirky list of over 17,000 hills with a drop of at least 30m on all sides, is one of the most extensive and challenging. No one has yet completed the entire list, and some peaks may never have been climbed. Meanwhile, the Deweys, a list of 426 peaks between 500m and 609m, adds another layer of variety to the UK’s hillwalking scene.
The Trail 100: A Must-Climb List for Every Hiker
Finally, the Trail 100 is a curated list of 100 mountains that every hiker should attempt at least once. Compiled by Trail magazine, this list includes iconic peaks like the Cuillin Ridge in the Isle of Skye and the Cairngorm plateau. It offers a mix of big, obvious summits and smaller, hidden gems, ensuring a rewarding and diverse experience.
Whether you’re a seasoned peak-bagger or just starting out, the UK’s hill lists provide endless opportunities for adventure. With so many options to choose from, there’s something for everyone, no matter your skill level or interests. So lace up your boots, grab your map, and start ticking off those summits—one at a time.
