ABOUT CLIMB DEVON

Your Expert Guide to Rock Climbing 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 on the rock.

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 beginner's face when they top out on their first-ever outdoor climb, or the moment a tricky sequence on the granite finally clicks.

I don't just guide; I teach. Backed by postgraduate academic research into how we learn outdoors, I believe that climbing is 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.

A man wearing a beanie and jacket outdoors, with mountains and a cloudy sky in the background.

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. Using proven, research-backed coaching methods, my goal is to give you the skills and judgment to become a self-reliant outdoor climber.

  • 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 inside and out—from the classic lines 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 and academic qualifications:

  • Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) in Outdoor Learning: This Level 7 academic qualification means my practical instruction is backed by advanced research in educational theory. I understand exactly how adults acquire and retain complex physical skills, ensuring your coaching is as effective and efficient as possible.

  • BA (Hons) in Outdoor Education: A foundational degree providing a deep understanding of the broader outdoor sector, environmental stewardship, and group management.

  • 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): The benchmark qualification for safely managing groups in the UK's upland terrain.

Ready For Your Adventure?

Ready to get on the rock? Browse our courses and private guiding options above, or drop me a message on WhatsApp or on the contact page above if you have any questions.