GNEISS PEOPLE
BEN WATSON
Owner and Guide
I have been working as a professional outdoor instructor and guide since graduating from a degree in Outdoor Education at the University of Cumbria in 2011. Since leaving university I have spent lots of work and play time developing my personal and professional climbing and mountaineering skills, which in turn helped me qualify as a Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor (MCI) - the UK's highest qualification in rock climbing instruction.
The MCI qualification allows me to teach and guide all things rock climbing, mountaineering and hill walking. I have worked throughout the UK, and overseas, as a Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor, Rock Climbing Instructor and Mountain Leader. I have a wide range of experience delivering outdoor education and adventurous activities, from managing an outdoor centre in Torridon, to ski instructing in Japan to delivering instructor training courses in New Zealand, so you will be in safe hands when on an adventure with me.
In 2020 I made the pilgrimage North to the Scottish Highlands in search of access to the big mountains. When not guiding on the hills and crags I am usually exploring the 'backyard' climbing, running and scrambling.
I am also an active member of the Torridon Mountain Rescue Team. For more information on the team or to make a donation head to the team's website torridonmrt.org.uk