Vintage magazine cover featuring a woman in a patterned sweater, mountains, and text: "The climbers guide to better equipment" by F. Ellis Brigham.

Our mission

Our story began in 1933 in a small shop on Conran Street in Harpurhey, Manchester. Our founder, Frederick Ellis Brigham, quickly established himself as the person to visit to get boots expertly made and fitted. Growing the business from bootmaker to outdoor retailer, Fred focussed on stocking top-quality kit to help his customers get the most from their time in the hills. His ethos of outstanding service, twinned with a strong sense of community, continues to drive us today. 

We have shops across the UK, led by friendly and knowledgeable staff who understand your needs because they love the outdoors too. We connect you with the best gear and advice to make your time outside unforgettable. Our events calendar runs throughout the year, with talks, workshops, and on-the-hill activities chosen to enhance your skill set. 

We know first-hand the benefits of spending time in nature. We want everyone to be able to experience the outdoors, now and for the generations ahead. From improving accessibility to reducing our environmental impact, we focus on projects that support people and the planet. We know we're stronger together, so we connect with brands, charities, and ambassadors who share our values, working collaboratively to achieve our goals.

Our values

Guide

Protect

Close-up of a person wearing crampons on snowy terrain, kicking up snow as they climb or hike.

It all started with our founder, Fred. Dedicated to making his patrons the best-fitting hiking boots, his knowledge and skill inspired confidence. Now, that passion and ability can be found throughout the company. To spend time with us is to spend time with climbers, runners, skiers, and hikers who, like you, live and breathe the outdoors.

We support our staff with expedition grants so they can uncover new routes, tackle high peaks, and test their mettle on long-distance trails. Returning with knowledge and experience, we share their tales of perseverance, problem-solving, and type-two fun.

Championing voices within the outdoor community, our ambassadors offer unique perspectives, industry leaders teach us best practices, and athletes unlock new skills. With talks year-round, join us for inspiration, encouragement, and connection with like-minded adventure seekers. 

Learn more about us

Image of Our heritage

Our heritage

Learn about how we were founded and our story so far.

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Careers

Discover your career with us and current job openings.

Image of Our atheletes & ambassadors

Our atheletes & ambassadors

We are proud to support UK talent in their outdoor pursuits. From Olympic skiers and champion climbers to worldwide adventurers.

Image of Partners & friends

Partners & friends

We aim to bring you the best deals, partnering with only the most reputable companies that we are proud to work with.

Image of Charities we support

Charities we support

We’re extremely proud of the campaigns and charities we support and the work they do.

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What's on

Discover the latest events, competitions, and partnerships we’re running.