Gwent Mountaineering Club (gwentmc, for short) is a group of friendly outdoor enthusiasts bound by their interests in all aspects of mountains and mountaineering. Our members come from all over South East and South Wales (Newport, Cardiff, Cwmbran, Pontypool, Abergavenny, Bridgend, Chepstow) as well as further afield (Brecon, Hereford, Midlands, North).
What we do
We give people opportunity to participate in mountain activities (including mountain walking and scrambling, rock climbing, snow and ice climbing, camping and backpacking, etc.). With more than one hundred members, we bring people together, catering for all abilities in mountaineering. We help people improve their skills and well-being.
On weekends: We run day walks and day outdoor climbing events on almost every Sunday throughout the year. We organise regular weekend trips away to the UK’s main mountain areas and further afield. These usually involve staying in mountain huts belonging to other mountaineering clubs, on campsites, or in hostel or cottage accommodation. We organise regular training events covering, for example, mountain navigation, rope skills, winter skills.
During the winter months (October – March): We hold weekly evening events on Wednesdays and Thursdays. Thursday indoor events take place at Goytre Village Hall with illustrated talks on subjects connected with mountaineering. Once per month we run an outdoor night walk in the dark. Climbers meet on Wednesday evenings at indoor climbing walls. On the first Wednesday of each month we meet at Rock UK Summit Centre, Trelewis. The remaining Wednesdays we meet at Boulders climbing centre, Cardiff.
During the summer months (April – September): Outdoor climbing takes place every Wednesday afternoon and evening, and a short walk takes place every Thursday evening. These climbs and walks are usually suitable for all beginners.
Come along and try us for free
New members are most welcome. Register via our try for free form and someone will contact you. Arrange to turn up at one or two of our outdoor or indoor events before you join us. Here’s what to expect. With prior contact, advice can be given on walk or climb difficulty, appropriate personal equipment, or other topics that might be important to you.
For climbing in particular it’s advisable to make contact so that we can look out for your arrival and be prepared if you’re new to climbing, perhaps arranging for loan of a climbing harness and helmet, etc.
Our equipment officer, or any experienced member can advise new members on equipment for climbing or walking. We have a safe approach to mountaineering, reflected in all our activities. The club has a small amount of equipment available for members to borrow.
After you’ve been along to two or three events, discovered us, tried us and experienced the benefits of becoming a Club member, we’ll ask you to pay an annual subscription to join us if you wish to continue participating.