ABOUT CLIMB DEVON
Your Expert Guide to Adventure in Devon.
Meet Your Instructor
Hi, I'm James, the founder and lead instructor at Climb Devon.
Climb Devon was born from two simple passions: a deep love for the wild, rugged beauty of Dartmoor, and a desire to help others discover their own confidence in the outdoors.
I've been climbing since 2009 and have been a professional instructor since 2012. For me, the real joy of this job comes from sharing that "a-ha!" moment: the look on a nervous beginner's face when they top out on their first-ever outdoor climb, or the moment when a "scary" map and compass finally clicks for a walker.
I don't just guide; I teach. I believe that climbing and hill walking are for everyone, and my job is to create a safe, supportive, and fun environment for you to learn. We'll always go at your pace, focus on your goals, and make sure you end the day feeling more skilled and confident than when you started.
Our Philosophy: Adventure, Not Just Activity
My entire business is built on these four key principles.
Safety First, Always: Your physical and psychological safety is my number one priority. I am a fully qualified and insured instructor, and I never compromise on industry-best safety standards.
Confidence Through Skills: I don't just want to drag you up a climb. I want to teach you. My goal is to give you the skills and judgment to become a self-reliant climber or hill-walker.
Friendly & Supportive: There are no silly questions! The outdoors can be intimidating, and my job is to be a friendly, patient guide. We go at your pace, and we celebrate every success, no matter how small.
Local Expertise: As a local, I know Dartmoor's crags and moors inside and out—from the classic climbs to the hidden gems (and the best spots to shelter from the rain!).
Our Expertise & Qualifications
When you book with Climb Devon, you're not just getting a guide; you're getting a highly qualified coach. This is the "why" behind our premium, bespoke service.
I hold the following national qualifications:
Rock Climbing Development Instructor (RCDI) This is an advanced qualification that allows me to teach all aspects of single pitch summer rock climbing, from your first day to learning to lead trad.
Development Coach (Climbing) This means I'm a specialist in how you learn. I can analyse your movement, tactics, and mindset to help you break through plateaus and become a better climber.
Mountain Leader (Summer) (ML) This is the benchmark qualification for safely guiding and teaching navigation/hill skills in the UK's mountains.
Ready For Your Adventure?
I'd love to hear from you. Whether you're ready to book a private day or just have a question about a course, please get in touch.