Testimonials

Read our clients' feedback and testimonials about their outdoor activities, mountain courses, training and adventure holidays:


I'd wanted to play on the Cuillin for years and was due to go on KMS's Skye trip in September last year but, inexplicably, no-one else booked so Iain had to cancel it. I was therefore really excited when I was able to get on this month’s trip at short notice. The weather was mixed, but that detracted very little from the trip. Iain books a cosy wee cottage with a cracking view across Loch Bracadale to the Inner Hebrides. The trip is run from this base, returning every evening for copious home-cooked food and good craic, talking about the day's activities, planning the next day's route and reminiscing about past trips. Iain has a passion for the outdoors and for Skye which is clearly evident. He has a great deal of experience both of mountaineering and of Skye, which shows in his ability to find the correct route in complex terrain in low visibility; and to keep people safe without curtailing their enjoyment. I always felt Iain was making the best decision for the group rather than himself. I think the best endorsement I can give is that I'd happily go on this trip again, having had a great time and made some good friend.

Alison


Spent a week in Skye with the aim of doing the Cuillin Ridge Traverse and what an experience it turned out to be. Iain is a first class guide whose knowledge of this area appears to be second to none. Not only the immediate area of Skye but every island situated off it. We completed 9 out of the 11 munros and only inclement weather defeated us. As we were about to tackle the Inn Pinn, Iain's eyebrows and Helen's hair warned of the presence of an electrical storm! the cottage we stayed in was excellent and Iain's idea of each client (although at no time did we feel like clients) preparing the meal each night was a great way to bond and relax after a hard day on the hills. One thing you should be prepared for is, at the most inopportune of times, say balancing precariously on an abseil, Iain will ask you to wait there while he takes yet another photo!! Seriously, if you've ever considered Skye, or any outdoor activity, KMS has it covered. What I must also mention is how fortunate we were to have such a good group. Despite the wonders of the Cuillin and Iain's expertise, I was incredibly fortunate to share it with Alison, Don, Helen and Steve. Don't think about it... do it!

Alastair Simpson


The Cuillin ridge in May - what a great adventure! The ridge could turn into a challenging environment pretty quickly when the weather turned, and as a generally happy scrambler I was glad to be led by such an experienced guide. Iain knows the ridge inside out – keeping us safe and moving smoothly, but also picking routes that felt adventurous and fun. Iain’s experience ensured we really made the most of the exciting scrambling the Cuillins offer. The cottage is lovely, and the trip is great value too. Book a place now!

Helen McDonald


If like me you are just the average hill walker with no climbing expertise and limited scrambling experience, but have set yourself the target to climb all the Munros. Have you thought about how you will reach the 11 Munros on the Cuillin Ridge, Isle of Skye. From what I have read and now seen you will have no chance unless you know an experienced climber with knowledge of the Cuillins. Iain Gallagher of Kendal Mountaineering Services is just such a man. He has a lifetime of mountaineering experience along with a detailed knowledge of the Cuillins including safe scrambling routes along with entry and exit routes to take the safest option whatever the conditions might be or indeed change whilst out on the hill.

I found his services on line and paid the £425 for one weeks accommodation and 4 days guided walking (scrambling and climbing) in the Cuillins. Excellent value. 4 days guided walking alone could cost you that much. This price really includes food as well, because each member of the group, including Iain, supply a home cooked meal each day, creating a brilliant atmosphere and get together at the end of the day with everyone else in the team.

Team is just what you are part of, supporting each other throughout the day ensuring each and every one of us reaches our own goals as well as at times extend outside your own comfort zone and edge of achievable limits.

A brilliant experience. No kickbacks or commissions, but I cannot recommend this trip highly enough and thank Iain most sincerely for enabling me to extend myself beyond limits I never thought possible. As I have read somewhere “you do not know your limits or what you are capable of achieving until you start to venture beyond your limits.”

Iain provided the opportunity and maintained the safe environment to do just that.

As well as taking copious amounts of photographs he also records the days events on his own blog to provide lasting memories of a trip of a lifetime.

Steve Smith


I recently completed a short Navigation Course with Iain as I am about to attempt the national 3 peaks challenge. I would thoroughly recommend this course to anyone. From novice to capable in a very short time and very enjoyable.

Matt Applegarth


I thoroughly recommend a course with Iain to anyone who wants to get some superb practical navigation skills. During the course I was able to experience many of the challenges that face any navigator and good practical advice to overcome them.

The added natural history lesson looking for crayfish in the streams was an excellent bonus.

Peter Brooks


have just spent two days scrambling in the Langdales with Iain. it was hugely enjoyable and very worthwhile. Iain has a wealth of knowledge and experience and was great at boosting my confidence and pushing me (not literally!). Good company in the hills, I will definitely come back for more and would recommend to others, at whatever level.

Andy Stratton


My family group joined Iain for three separate sessions across three days towards the end of August ”15. We spent time with Kayaks, caving and canyoning – much fun. Iain was highly professional throughout, ensuring a perfect balance between safety, adventure and fun – with the addition of being informative about geology or the environment as we proceeded. This was our first time caving and canyoning and it was really enjoyable part of our holiday. I would have no hesitation recommending Iain to others.

All in all, great value – Thanks lain!

Mick Hickey


Kendal Mountaineering Services organised a last minute Ghyll Scrambling trip for myself and friends with instructor Mark in the Langdale Valley this weekend. Our group of 10 thoroughly enjoyed the scrambling and would highly recommended for anyone – regardless of climbing ability! We look forward for our next adventure!

Kavita


Spent a great week on Skye with superb relaxing accommodation. Iain is a very supportive guide with enormous knowledge of the Cuillins and was helpful in many ways beyond his role. Highly recommended. Many thanks.

Joanna


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Iain GallagherLakes Outdoor Experience is run by Iain Gallagher. Iain was born and brought up in The Lake District by parents who were very keen on the outdoors.

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