Adrian Nelhams

ISM Director and IFMGA British Mountain Guide

As a Director of ISM, Adrian splits his time between guiding, the ISM office, family and climbing for himself. During his 30+ year commitment to the team, Adrian has played a key role in the development of ISM.

Adrian's mountaineering and climbing experience is worldwide including over a hundred first ascents of virgin summits and rock climbs in Kyrgyzstan, major routes in the Mt Cook region of New Zealand, new routes in Alaska, rock climbing El Capitan in the Yosemite Valley, peaks in Nepal and 'Grande Courses' in the main alpine areas. Adrian has a passion for icefall climbing around the world, with many first ascents in the Canadian Rockies and Swiss Alps. Through all his climbing across the globe, Adrian has gained an incredible breath of knowledge and experience, and an enthusiasm and love for the mountains which has a great effect on the people who climb with him. Adrian was also Technical Director for the BMG (British Mountain Guides) for many year and still works as a trainer and assessor of the BMG. When not travelling and sharing adventures abroad, Adrian spends his time climbing in the Lake District.

Testimonials For ISM

Thanks for organising an excellent week. The course format, accommodation and set up was perfect. The guide was outstanding and gave us a full week of constructive tuition. I was able to put his training into practice the following week when I met up with a friend and did the Cosmiques Arrete.

R W (2017)
Classic AlpinISM (Instructional Course)

“What an incredible week learning the basics of Mountaineering. The course is perfectly balanced between summiting high alpine peaks and learning rope, climbing and glacier skills.

William 2021

Our three guides were all excellent: Thomas, Phil and Paulo. I can't speak highly enough of them. They were all good company and superb climbers, and patient with us all.

Donald Connolly
Matterhorn Ascent

All Reviews