Mountains and lakes have inspired me since a very early age following a family walk up to Esk Hause on a snowy Easter weekend. I was hooked by the majesty and scale of the peaks, by their fascinating names, and by their representation on Ordnance Survey maps. I have spent a lifetime exploring the hills, fells and mountains of the Lake District, Peak District, Snowdonia, and the Highlands of Scotland. Initially I was motivated by the physical challenge of conquering each peak, often overlooking the surrounding beauty until I reached the top where I could sit with a brew and a piece of cake and enjoy the vista. As the years have passed I have realised that it is important to savour every step, to recognise what a privilege it is to simply spend time in the hills, and that there is far more to be seen if you enjoy the journey and not just crossing the finish line.