TGO Reader Awards 2025: Meet Your Winners!

Meet the people, businesses and organisations you value and voted for in The Great Outdoors Reader Awards 2025!

The Great Outdoors Reader Awards 2025 are the UK’s biggest democratic celebration of the best of outdoor culture. Thirteen years ago, we launched our first annual awards and our readers have been championing the people, places and businesses that make our outdoor lives better ever since.

Main image credit: Páramo

Once again, we opened The Reader Awards across 15 categories including the Open Outdoors award, pub of the year, campaigner of the year, brand of the year, and many more. What makes these Reader Awards different – and gives extra kudos to the winners – is that it’s you, the outdoor going public, who decide the results. Only your nominees make it onto the shortlist, and only those who win most of your votes walk away with a top accolade. The nominee with the most votes in each category receive a Winner award, while the nominees with the second and third most votes both receive a Commended accolade.

The Great Outdoors Reader Awards 2025: The Categories

• The Extra Mile award
• Outdoor personality of the year
• Campaign or campaigner of the year
• The Open Outdoors award
• Walkers’ pub of the year
• Walkers’ café of the year
• Hostel or bunkhouse
• Campsite of the year
• Walker’s app of the year
• Outdoor film or filmmaker of the year
• Outdoor book of the year
• Independent retailer of the year
• Chain retailer of the year
• Online retailer of the year
• Outdoor clothing and equipment brand of the year

The Extra Mile Award

Winner: Britain’s Mountain Rescue teams (England, Wales, Scotland, Independent Scottish Mountain Rescue)

Over half of voters in The Great Outdoors Reader Awards 2025 wanted to honour every single volunteer who is on call, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, to rescue walkers, climbers, missing children, and vulnerable adults in the mountains. Some nominees shouted out specific teams including Tayside Mountain Rescue – “an incredible group of volunteers who saved my life with smiles, laughs and unwavering kindness” – and Arran Mountain Rescue Team while other special mentions went to teams in Llanberis, Glencoe, Loch Lomond, the Ochils, Northumberland and Assynt.

Mike Park, CEO Mountain Rescue England and Wales, said: “It’s great to know that TGO readers recognise the commitment of mountain rescue volunteers to go “the extra mile” – thank you. Support for MR and awareness of the challenges that we face is always encouraging and I’d ask every reader to help us in spreading the word about safety in the hills and mountains.”

Commended: Mountain Bothies Association

The volunteers of the Mountain Bothies Association were applauded for taking care of “a unique and special.part of outdoor community in the most wild and lonely places” and “preserving the intersection of our human history and the landscape” in their maintenance of centuries old buildings and shelters for the free use of any passersby. “Volunteers give miles and days of their time to look after the bothies with logistical, manual and educational work in remote locations. No one in the charity is paid, and those that give their time to the MBA do so year round purely for their love of the community,” one nominator added.

Spokesperson Neil Stewart said: “Thank you TGO. It is good to know that our work continues to have the support of the outdoors community. Who would have thought when Bernard Heath and his friends were renovating Tunskeen back in 1965 that, as the MBA enters its 60th year, it would now be responsible for maintaining 109 bothies across the wild areas of Scotland, northern England and Wales, especially so as all of our work is undertaken by volunteers. This award is for all of them, our maintenance teams and those who work behind the scenes to support them.”

Commended: National Trust volunteers

As Europe’s largest conservation charity, the volunteers of the National Trust help folks across England, Wales and Northern Ireland enjoy all sorts of special places. Liz Girling, People Engagement Director at the National Trust, said: “I’m delighted that the National Trust’s volunteers have been commended in the Extra Mile Award. The National Trust couldn’t run without the skills, time and expertise dedicated by our thousands of volunteers and we are grateful for the contribution of each and every one.”

She added, “From making sure that visitors feel welcomed, to supporting our teams of rangers and gardeners to look after the beautiful landscapes, parkland and gardens in our care, our volunteers are there as you come in the door at the start of your visit, and as you head out of the gate at the end of it. Away from our places, you will see them out and about in the coast and countryside, as well as in your local communities, making sure that the green spaces we all use and enjoy are looked after. It’s wonderful to see our volunteers recognised through this Award.”

Shortlisted

• Cave Rescue Organisation
• Fix the Fells volunteers
• Fran Pearson, Kitsquad
• Kirstie Smith, Arran Runners
• Peter Judd, BMC volunteer
• Rachel Inwood Healey – adventurer and mother who volunteers for Gloucestershire Women’s Adventure Group (Love Her Wild)
• Scotland’s Bog Squad

Outdoor Personality of the Year

Winner: Jasmin Paris

Having been a national fell running champion and setting records for the Bob Graham Round and the Ramsay Round, Jasmin Paris is not a new face in British ultra running. But in 2024, she hit headlines globally when she became the first woman to complete the Barkley Marathons. The 100-miler is sometimes described as “The Race That Eats Its Young” and is known for its 60-hour cut off, the extreme terrain, difficult application process, and off-beat traditions. It has been completed only 26 times by 20 runners since 1995. The image of Jasmine arriving at the finish line with just 100 seconds to spare quickly became a symbol of resilience and  will no doubt go on to inspire many women athletes. One reader explaining they nominated Jasmin for “completing the Berkeley, being completely down to earth about it, getting more women into the outdoors and breaking barriers”.

Commended: Paul ‘Warrior Walker’ Harris

Paul Harris, in 2024, became the first person to walk around the UK twice. An ex-Royal Marine Commando, readers said he has been “an incredible inspiration, a great advocate for mental health and resilience, and  the epitome of what humans can do if we put our mind to it.” Another said he “exudes positivity and energy while raising money for charity and encouraging loads of people to get outdoors to walk and talk.”

Paul shared this with The Great Outdoors: “Thank you so much to all who voted for me. I really appreciate it and it makes me smile when I look at all who were nominated – what a list of great humans. I can only speak from my experience but the great outdoors changed my life and actually saved my life. When I was walking the UK back to back over four years I learnt a lot about myself and my physical, mental and spiritual capabilities. I walked and kept on walking. As I did this, I would always say; “Hey, how are you?” to every person I passed. Those four words brought into my life so much love, happiness and peace. The UK is a beautiful place and if you learnt one thing from me I hope it would be just to get outdoors and see it in all its savage beauty for yourself.”

Commended: Anna Wells

Anna Wells will be familiar to readers of The Great Outdoors, having recounted her trail-breaking Winter round in our December 2024 issue. In case you missed it, Anna climbed all 282 Scottish 3000-foot peaks in a single astronomical winter season becoming the fourth person and first woman ever to do so. One reader who followed Anna’s progress online said her Munro round was “absolutely riveting and inspiring.”

Shortlisted

• Ben Larg
• Elise Wortley
• Ella Foote
• Kenton Cool
• Lira Valencia
• Lorraine McCall
• Merlin Sheldrake

Campaign or Campaigner of the Year

Winner: Feargal Sharkey

Feargal Sharkey OBE may be known in cultural circles as the lead singer of The Undertones. Now 66, he dedicates his time to campaigning for cleaner waters across the UK. One reader said, “His enthusiasm for our rivers, and his concern for the terrible state of many of them, is inspirational. His work in shaming the water companies to take serious action to improve water quality and river habitat generally is having effect and future generations will owe him a debt of gratitude.” Another added, “I’ve seen him championing clean water in the media but I went to listen to him in Saltburn and his command of the details of the local situation regarding river and sea pollution was awesome.”

Commended: Trees for Life

The people who work and volunteer for Trees of Life “continually work hard to help restore the balance of nature,” said one reader who wanted to recognise this rewilding charity based in the Scottish Highlands. Committed to creating nature-rich landscapes and closing the gap between people and nature, the work focusses on Scotland’s spectacular Caledonian forest, with other projects designed to bring more life back to our landscapes, from the iconic red squirrel to the elusive lynx.

Steve Micklewright, Chief Executive of Trees for Life, said: “This recognition from TGO readers is testament to the hope rewilding offers for nature, people and climate. By working together, we can take positive action to breathe new life into our landscapes – from red squirrels to lynx, and from restoring the Caledonian forest to welcoming people from all walks of life to explore the wild Highlands at Dundreggan Rewilding Centre. And together we can urge Scotland to declare itself the world’s first Rewilding Nation. Thank you!”

Commended: The Green Runners

The Green Runners is a community – supported by the likes of Damian Hall and Jasmin Paris – hoping to make changes for a fitter planet and win the race against the climate emergency by helping runners live more sustainably. The group wants to improve how we move, how we kit up, how we eat and how we speak out with the climate in mind and their work to raising climate awareness was praised by readers.

A spokesperson from The Green Runners said: “It’s a huge honour to have Jasmin win the Outdoor Personality of the Year Award, and The Green Runners being commended in the Campaign Award category for The Great Outdoors Readers Awards is the extra icing on the cake. The support of readers and the wider community for The Green Runners really means the world, and we hope to continue empowering more runners across the globe to think about how they speak out, how they kit up, how they fuel, and how they travel. Jasmin epitomises everything that TGR stands for, and aside from being in awe of her incredible performances in running, we are always grateful for her dedication to living sustainably.”

Shortlisted

• Charlotte Ditchburn
• Cal Major
• Hills2Oceans by the BMC
• Protect Our Winters
• Ruth Tingay of Raptor Persecution
• Save our Mearns
• Wild Justice

The Open Outdoors Award

Winner: Paths for All

Paths for All is a Scottish charity championing everyday walking for a happier, healthier Scotland. “They do so much to encourage people to get outdoors in any small way,” said one reader. The charity supports people in Scotland to be active every day on foot or wheels in order to reduce some of Scotland’s biggest health inequalities, reduce pressure on the NHS, reduce car use, boost connectedness, improve physical, mental and social health, and support Scotland’s journey to Net Zero.

Kevin Lafferty, Chief Executive of Paths for All, said: “This recognition means so much to us, as it highlights the importance of walking and wheeling in making the outdoors accessible to everyone. For Paths for All, as Scotland’s national walking charity, we see being outdoors as not just an occasional activity – it’s an everyday part of life. We support inclusive Health Walk groups and help communities to develop accessible paths. We create opportunities for everyone – from schoolchildren to office workers – to enjoy the benefits of walking. We’re reducing the barriers to taking part, so that walking outdoors is a source of connection, health, and happiness for all.”

Commended: Forest School Association

Forest School is a child-centred inspirational learning process, that offers opportunities for holistic growth through regular sessions. It is a long-term program that supports play, exploration and supported risk taking, developing confidence and self-esteem through learner-inspired, hands-on experiences in a natural setting. One reader praised the Association for “inspiring the young, and often underprivileged, to enjoy the outdoors”.

A spokesperson for the FSA said: “We are delighted to have been commended. Our members often work in tricky situations, championing quality Forest School for people of all ages, sharing the joys of playing in nature and caring for their Forest School sites when budgets are tight and staffing issues complex. They persevere because they know that risky, challenging play builds resilience, and building relationships with places and people takes time. As the Professional Association for Forest School our members are committed to creating a robust, sustainable community that champions courage, curiosity, and resilience through practice, research and communication with leaders at every level—local, national, and beyond.”

Commended: Black Trail Runners

“This year Black Trail Runners have expanded how to further inspire those from the global majority,” said one reader, who added, “They work constantly to try and make the outdoors more welcoming and accessible for all.” As a charity run by volunteers, it gains funding to host taster sessions, help members travel to and enter races, and enable Black runners to gain instructor support to enjoy the trails.

Sabrina Pace-Humphreys, Co-Founder of Black Trail Runners, told The Great Outdoors: “Our mission as a community and campaigning charity is to increase the inclusion, participation and representation of people of Black ethnicity in trail running. Through our work we continue to see an increase in the number of people from the communities we serve accessing the outdoors. For us there is no greater reward than witnessing the physical and mental benefits that developing a relationship with the outdoors, in community, brings. While our community needs us, we will continue to lead on bringing greater ethnic diversity to the outdoors.”

Shortlisted

• Black Scottish Adventurers CIC
• Cambrian Mountains Society
• Due North CIC
• Granite Girls Climb
• Ife Iyanu, Wanderers of Colour
• Yorkie Talkies
• WildMinders

Walkers’ Pub of the Year

Winner: Clachaig Inn, Glencoe

“They always make it feel like home there – the people, the food and the landscapes equal an unforgettable place that I keep returning to,” said one reader of this iconic mountain watering hole. Nestled in the famous glen of impossibly craggy peaks and razor-toothed ridges, The Clachaig is a hillwalking institution. With Bidean nam Bian and Aonach Eagach on its doorstep, you’re sure to meet climbers and hikers galore sharing tales of the day’s epic adventures over the live music by the fire.

Another reader added, it’s “always a stunning location at the end of a day in the mountains, whether relaxing on a bench outdoors in the sunshine, or sheltering inside from the rain” and praised the new ownership which “has breathed life back into this classic venue, with great service and live music which complements the vibe rather than overpowering it. Back to its best.”

Commended: The Old Nags Head, Edale

Sitting at the official start of The Pennine Way in Edale, the Kinder Plateau looming large as a backdrop, The Old Nags Head has the power shared by many great pubs to take you back in time – dating back to 1577, to be precise. Inside you will find a beautifully warming fire and several different rooms and snugs throughout the pub. One reader posed the question: “Great beer and food and the Pennine Way – what more do you want?”

“The Old Nag’s Head offers walkers and ramblers respite with fantastic ales and wholesome, homemade meals. Located at the Official start of the Pennine way, a warm, friendly welcome is always assured. Thank you to all friends new and old who voted for us – we’re incredibly proud to run this beautiful pub,” said Jacqui Buckingham.

Commended: Old Dungeon Ghyll, Great Langdale

Steeped in climbing history, the ODG is beloved by all who venture to the Langdales, in the shadow of the Langdale Pikes and a stone’s throw from photographers’ paradise, Blea Tarn. For those who keep coming back, it is “immortal – one thing in life that never changes and long may it be so.” Many praised the good food and good company as well as “welcoming staff ready to give advice on local conditions of routes.” For one newcomer who had a very good hot meal after a long and exhausting run it was “possibly best pub experience ever!”

Shortlisted

• Am Fuaran, Ullapool
• The Britannia Inn, Elterwater
• Lanty Slee’s, Langdale
• Lolfa’r Wyddfa Bar, Plas y Brenin, Capel Curig
• The Old Forge, Knoydart
• Ritson’s Bar, Wasdale Head Inn
• Wainwright’s Inn, Langdale

Walkers’ Café of the Year

Winner: Real Food Café, Tyndrum

Located perfectly to welcome West Highland Way walkers, the gluten-free food options and accessibility by car and foot were praised, along with the facilities for dogs, boots, bikes. Many readers mentioned the cake, the “fantastic service, friendly staff, cleanliness and value for money”.

Cafe spokesperson, Sarah Heward told The Great Outdoors: “We are immensely proud to win the prestigious award for the third consecutive time. We are so grateful to the customers who voted for us and whose loyalty plays such a vital role in making the café the vibrant community and warm environment it is today. We welcome walkers, runners and outdoor enthusiasts from around the globe, many of whom are here to enjoy the iconic West Highland Way and others, the plentiful, beautiful and diverse mountains and trails that this incredible part of Scotland has to offer. The Real Food Café turns 20 in 2025, a real milestone moment, so we’re looking forward to celebrating throughout the year with all of those who have supported us for the last two decades, including our large, vibrant outdoors community.”

Commended: Outside Hathersage

The Outside shop in Hathersage is ideally situated in the heart of climbing territory. In addition to an excellent Rock Climbing and Mountaineering Department, it boasts a beloved cafe which is the hub of the community and meeting place for many a great day out in the Peak. One reader praised the “range of lovely food and drinks in a great location.”

Commended: Corrour Station House

On the beautiful West highland line, this restaurant serves great Scottish food – home-made cakes, soups and sandwiches, and hearty mains. The venison burgers and venison stew are perennial favourites. One reader applauded the “gorgeous food, cakes and drinks in an idyllic place” and added it’s always “filled with people from all walks of life!”

Shortlisted

• Caban, Caernarfon
• Chesters by the River, Skelwith Bridge
• Elphin Tearooms, Lairg
• Glenlyon Tearoom and Post Office, Aberfeldy
• High Paradise Farm, Thirsk
• Nanny’s, Shieldaig
• Pinemarten Cafe, Nevis Range

Hostel or Bunkhouse of the Year

Winner: YHA Borrowdale

Readers applauded the “location, reasonable price, comfortable rooms, pint and good food” available at this large Lakeland hostel. Amidst a landscape of epic proportions, coupled with a warm, informal and welcoming atmosphere, the hostel is a long-standing Lake District favourite and recommended stop on Wainwright’s Coast to Coast.

“YHA Borrowdale is one of the original hostels built back in 1932 just after the network had been started. It’s really amazing to see that we are still just as relevant now as we were back then, without doubt the hostel has seen big changes over the past 92 years, but the original charitable mission still stays the same. To help all, especially young people and those of limited means, to a greater knowledge, love and care of the countryside. Thanks to all our lovely guests for voting for us, and all credit to my team who have worked super hard to deliver a great season,” said Aaron Jones, Hostel Manager

Commended: Loch Ossian Youth Hostel, Fort William

“Jan and Uzune make this place feel like home,” according to one regular, who added that “their warmth (and the warmth of the fire) inspires me to keep coming back, bringing folk with me to experience it for themselves.” Another said “the staff and location are the best you will find anywhere”. Set high on Rannoch Moor and surrounded by Munros, Loch Ossian Youth Hostel is only accessible by rail, bike or on foot. It’s the perfect location to get away for our readers.

A spokesperson said: “We were over the moon to pick up the top award in 2024 and following that with a commendation in 2025 is simply the icing on the cake. We would like to thank everybody that has visited and supported the hostel over the years. So many fond memories and looking forward for more to come in 2025.”

Commended: Glencoe Youth Hostel

This “traditional Youth Hostel has a vibrant atmosphere and friendly knowledgeable staff in an amazing location,” according to one fan. Commended for a second year in a row, Glencoe Youth Hostel is set in one of Scotland’s most spectacular and historic glens. This alpine-style hostel is a popular base for walkers and climbers of all abilities. One reader said, “It is such a friendly place with great staff and a fab welcome and the lounge is so perfect to relax in and look at the scenery.”

“The team at Glencoe are absolutely delighted to be recognised in these prestigious awards for the 2nd year in a row. We would like to thank everybody who voted for this very special hostel and can’t wait to welcome you back in 2025,” a spokesperson told TGO.

Shortlisted

• Achmelvic Beach Youth Hostel
• Cairngorm Lodge
• Elterwater Hostel
• Ratagan Youth Hostel
• Star Bunkhouse
• Torridon Youth Hostel
• YHA Kettlewell

Campsite of the Year

Winner: Great Langdale Campsite (National Trust)

Both regulars and newcomers love this campsite in Great Langdale with breathtaking views and immaculate facilities. One said it’s been an “absolute joy to be a regular there for over 30 years” while another commented: “The team at the site were wonderful during our visit this summer, going above and beyond to make a first camping experience for our two-year-old a memory to treasure.”

Steph Hill, Head of Operational Delivery at Holidays Outdoors said: “The team at Great Langdale works passionately and tirelessly to deliver the best possible experience for our guests and every year they bring hundreds of people closer to the nature, beauty and history of this stunning National Park and World Heritage area. I’d like to pay tribute our long-standing campsite manager, John Kelly, for leading such a brilliant team so worthy of this award.”

Commended: Glenmore Campsite, Aviemore

Situated on the shores of Loch Morlich with direct access to its sandy beaches, this 206 pitch site welcomes most unit types including caravans, tents and motorhomes. Panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and Glenmore Forest Park makes staying on site a wonderful escape from the everyday. “The staff are amazing and helpful and the shower blocks are super clean and the water always hot,” on reader said, adding, “Nothing is too much hassle for the staff and it’s on the edge of the beautiful Loch Morlich with views to die for.”

Kari Watson of Glenmore said: “Thank you to everyone who voted for us. Having only taken over the running of Glenmore Campsite two years ago it was a real honour to even be nominated. We hope to continue welcoming old and new customers throughout the years to come.”

Commended: Red Squirrel Campsite, Glencoe

After winning the top spot last year and the previous, The Red Squirrel has been commended this year thanks to excellent facilities – lots of you love the campfires and dipping spot – as well as the friendly staff who go above and beyond. But the setting is world’s apart from the rest, according to our readers who praised the “raw beauty” as well as the “campfires, views, great pitches, and having the Clachaig Inn up the road.”

Shortlisted

• By The Way Hostel and Campsite, Tyndrum
• Church Holme Camping, Danby Wiske
• Glen Nevis Campsite, Fort William
• Offa’s Dyke Farm Campsite, Shropshire
• Shieldaig Campsite, Strathcarron
• YHA Castleton

Walkers’ App of the Year

Winner: OS Maps

Claiming the top spot for the eighth year in a row, the OS Maps app must be running out of space in its trophy cabinet. The navigation app from Ordnance Survey secured a whopping 43 percent of the public vote – a convincing victory. One put it plainly: “Where would you be without it?”

OS’s Managing Director for Leisure, Nick Giles OBE, said: “It is fantastic to be told that readers of The Great Outdoors voted for OS Maps app as the Walkers’ App of the Year and it’s extra special that this is for an eighth year in a row! We are always especially delighted to receive any award voted for by readers as this is a real and true endorsement of OS Maps! The team behind OS Maps have been working especially hard this year to develop and improve the app’s user interface while continuing to add new features including the integration of OS Locate into the app. Its features such as this and the recent launch of 3D visualisation which will transform the way users explore their routes. And with over 8 million downloads of the app now, rest assured that we will continue to drive forward with some very big plans for 2025 too. A big thanks to everyone that voted.”

Commended: Walkhighlands

“The Walkhighlands app aims to make not just detailed walk descriptions, but detailed GPS mapping that works offline available to everyone completely free, without subscription, to make walking routes more accessible to all. We’re delighted that it has again been recognised and commended by TGO readers,” said Paul Webster of Walkhighlands. Its users dubbed it “easy to follow” and praised the number of walks to choose from as well as the gradings.

Commended: AllTrails

AllTrails, the app that provides over 450,000 detailed, hand-curated trail maps, along with reviews and photos crowd-sourced from a community of over 75 million trail-goers, is commended once again in The Great Outdoors Reader Awards. The ease of use was the overwhelming praise given to the AllTrails app this year, not to mention new updates to the app this year including recently adding Offline Parks, a new Apple Watch app, and a big summer update.

AllTrails UK Country Manager Gareth Mills said: “It’s a highlight of our year to hear from the TGO community and we’re thrilled that AllTrails continues to be a top walking app for readers. In 2024, we enhanced our app to make it easier to explore outside and in turn saw more Brits than ever out on the trails. We look forward to helping walkers discover even more of the great outdoors in 2025.”

Shortlisted

• Climbed-IT
• Go Jauntly
• Hiiker
• Komoot
• OutdoorActive
• Ride with GPS
• Windy

Outdoor Film or Filmmaker of the Year

Winner: Liam Karl (Good Bloke Outdoors)

This Good Bloke Outdoors was nominated by fans who praised his YouTube videos and down-to-earth approach. “It does exactly what he says on the tin,” said one reader.

Liam told The Great Outdoors: “I was buzzing just to be nominated, let alone find out we’ve actually won! 2025 is going to be another year full of challenges and adventure, whilst making ‘entertaining’ content along the way and hopefully I can continue to encourage people to get outdoors. A massive Thank you to all that voted and the regulars that watch the channel every single week. We did it…Peace out and inabit!”

Commended: Stephen J Reid

YouTuber Stephen J Reid was praised for his “entertaining, factual and fun” videos which cover walks and kit but also include “a documentary style that he uses to highlight environmental issues like dirty campers, dangerous algae in our waters, and the impact of old industries on the landscape”. Stephen is a “natural storyteller and his recent vlog on the Kinder Tresspass shows how good he is at relaying information in an easy to understand and digest way.”

Stephen told The Great Outdoors: “I’m delighted to have been commended – thanks to everyone who voted for me and congratulations to the winner! Thanks especially to all the people who have watched one of my videos on YouTube over the last six years. Now grab your boots, trail shoes, bike, paddle or bobsled and get outside!”

Commended: Elli Schneider (Elli Hikes)

Elli Schneider documents her epic long-distance walks from her JOGLE in 2023, the West Highland Way, the Coast to Coast and the TGO Challenge 2024. Elli’s “infectious enthusiasm for the trails of the UK, inspirational courage and fortitude, no-nonsense attitude to getting it done and special companion in Otto” earned her a commendation in this year’s awards. One fan said: “Elli’s channel is easily one of the best. Her videos make you feel that you are right there, feeling the sun, wind or rain, the gravel or squelchy bog underfoot, feelings of despair or elation. She has walked many of the longer distance paths in the UK, most of them with her dog Otto.”

Elli told The Great Outdoors: “Long-distance hiking with my dog Otto has really changed my life in so many ways. I’m so grateful that I get to share my love for the outdoors and my journey toward a simpler, more meaningful life with others through my videos.”

Shortlisted

• Access Land by Mark Vaughan
• Capsized by Roxanna Barry (featuring Every Body Outdoors co-founder Emily Williams)
• Danielle Sellwood
• Martin Bell (The Determined Runner)
• My Wilderness by Ana Norrie-Toch and Rupert Shanks
• Thawn: A Stubbornly Scottish Snow Film by Hannah Bailey (featuring Lesley McKenna)
• Unfiltered, A Renee McGregor Film

Outdoor Book of the Year

Winner: WILD: Climbing all of Scotland’s Munros in a Single Winter by Kevin Woods

In winter, Scotland’s mountains are transformed by snow and ice into a vast mountaineering and climbing arena. The 282 highest mountains that attain a height of over 3,000 feet are known as the Munros. To climb them all in a single winter is almost unheard of, yet Kevin Woods set out to attempt just this. WILD explores the beauty and brutality of the highest Scottish mountains, the legacies of those who have come before, and the relentless drive in pursuit of a dream. Nominators also applauded Kevin’s accompanying film about his Winter 282 and the stunning photography.

Kevin told The Great Outdoors: “Amazed and very pleased to discover that Wild won the Book of the Year. Doing a hardcover photo book like this one was a very different challenge to climbing a lot of mountains, so I’m glad that it’s been well-received.”

Commended: Bothy: In Search of Simple Shelter by Kat Hill

A bothy is a remote hut you can’t reserve, with no electricity, mod-cons or running water. And it’s here you’ll find Kat Hill – kettle on, feet up and pen out. Leading us on a journey around the UK, Kat reveals the history of these wild mountain shelters and the people who visit them. With insight and imagination, she lends fresh consideration to the concepts of nature, wilderness and escape.

Kat told The Great Outdoors: “To be commended in the TGO Reader Awards is a real honour. It’s a community that supports and promotes the love of place and the natural world, ideas that resonate with my work, so I am grateful to everyone who has read and enjoyed Bothy.”

Commended: The Lost Paths: A History of How We Walk from Here to There by Jack Cornish

This is a nostalgic amble through the history of travel in England and Wales, and an examination of the routes that make up our modern path network beloved by our readers as well as our in-house reviewer who dubbed it “no superficial walk in the park“.

Jack told us: “It’s such a privilege to be nominated and commended by the readers of The Great Outdoors. Exploring and uncovering the glorious history of our ancient path network has been such a joy. I hope that readers of The Lost Paths, when they turn that final page, are inspired to walk, protect and reclaim our extraordinary paths so that they can live long into the future.”

Shortlisted

• Cumbria – 1000 Years of Maps by William D. Shannon
• Mountaineering – The Freedom of the Hills (10th Edition) from Mountaineers Books
• Mountains before Mountaineering: The Call of the Peaks before the Modern Age by Dawn L. Hollis
• Moving the Needle by Dave MacLeod
• Wild Service: Why Nature Needs You by Nick Hayes
• Trails and Tribulations: The Running Adventures of Susie Chan by Susie Chan
• Running Challenges: 100 of the best runs in England, Scotland and Wales by Keri Wallace

Independent Retailer of the Year

Winner: Cairngorm Mountain Sports (Aviemore)

Our readers praised the “great selection of outdoor gear and advice from knowledgeable and active staff” at Cairngorm Mountain Sports, Aviemore. One of Braemar Mountain Sports three stores, the team at Aviemore won your votes again this year.

Martin Bell, Marketing Manager for Braemar Mountain Sports told The Great Outdoors: “All the staff here at Cairngorm Mountain Sports are delighted to have been commended in the TGO Awards for the second year in a row! A huge thank you to everyone that took the time to nominate and vote for our shop here in Aviemore. We hope to see you all soon and keep enjoying your adventures in the outdoors, whatever they may be!”

Commended: Foothills (Sheffield)

“We’re really grateful to have been nominated and recognised for the service and advice we offer,” said Sarah Jeffkin, Managing Director at Foothills in Sheffield on the edge of the Peak District, who added, “After being here for 31 years, it’s good to know we’re still doing something right.”

Our readers agreed, commending the great service, products and prices.

Commended: Needle Sports (Keswick)

On Keswick’s Main Street, this climbing gear specialist stocks everything from maps to trekking poles and harnesses, as well as an abundance of knowledge and experience from staff. One reader said it boasts “probably the largest selection of reliable, tried and tested gear at very competitive prices combined with the highest number of really competent sales attendants per sales area.” Another called it “a cosy treasure trove for any walking, mountaineering and climbing gear including essentials for camping and books” and said this institution “bursts with outdoor spirit!”

Trev Suddaby, Shop Manager, told The Great Outdoors: “Thank you to everyone who voted for us and to all our customers both in the shop and online. We hope to see you in 2025!”

Shortlisted

• Arran Active (Brodick)
• Castleberg Sports (Settle)
• Crickhowell Adventure (Crickhowell)
• Ullapool Outdoors (Ullapool)
• Up and Under (Cardiff)
• West End Outdoors (Glasgow)

Chain Retailer of the Year

Winner: Go Outdoors

“Nothing else comes near” in terms of stock and pricing, said one reader whilst others credited the chain retailer for its partnerships with The Duke of Edinburgh Award (DofE), the Scouts Association and Girlguiding. The ethos behind Go Outdoors, now owned by JD Sports, is to passionately believe in the positive benefits of the outdoors, whether on the daily dog walk or hiking Ben Nevis, horse riding or cold water therapy.

Commended: Cotswold Outdoor

Founded in 1974, Cotswold Outdoor is the recommended retailer for the National Trust and the Ramblers with 79 shops across the United Kingdom. One reader said: “I visited their Rose Street branch I Edinburgh looking for a new waterproof lightweight jacket. The staff member I spoke to was knowledgeable, patient and allowed me to try on several jackets without being pushy.”

Commended: Mountain Warehouse

Founded in 1997 by Mark Neale; Mountain Warehouse has grown from a single outlet store to over 330 stores in the UK, Europe, New Zealand and North America. Our readers applauded the excellent customer service and said it the stores offer great value.

Mark Neale, Mountain Warehouse CEO and Founder said: “We are absolutely delighted. This award is a true testament to our team’s hard work and dedication, and we are incredibly grateful to our customers for their continued trust and support. Helping people enjoy the great outdoors is at the heart of everything we do, and this recognition inspires us to keep delivering the very best for adventurers everywhere.”

Shortlisted

• Blacks
• Ellis Brigham
• Nevisport
• Tiso
• Winfields Outdoors

Online Retailer of the Year

Winner: Ultralight Outdoor Gear

UOG “consistently provides quality gear, with detailed information to assist your purchase” and the customer service is excellent, according to one regular shopper.

A team spokesperson said: “It still hasn’t sunk in that we’ve won the TGO Reader Award again! What an amazing honour for which we are extremely grateful. It’s a credit to the fantastic team at UOG who strive to provide the best products and service to our wonderful customers. Wishing all the TGO readers many exciting new adventures in 2025.”

Commended: SportPursuit

“For those of us on a budget who don’t mind that most of the gear is last season,” one reader said, “the prices are always excellent and the brands on offer are high quality.” In their own words, SportPursuit hunts down down the best deals available online on a wide range of quality sports and outdoor brands. Our readers thought the site was easy to use and liked the membership model.

Commended: Trekitt

Trekitt is a favourite of TGO readers and they were particularly impressed with the retailer this year thanks to the launch of its high-end gear rental service.

CEO David Cassidy told The Great Outdoors: “A massive thank you goes out to not only our customers and the readers of TGO who voted for us, but also to the brilliant people at Trekitt, who’s dedication and hard work have deservedly been recognised again. Thank you one and all!”

Shortlisted

• Alpinetrek
• BananaFingers
• Dash4it
• Facewest Outdoor Equipment
• Valley and Peak
• Vampire Outdoors
• WildBounds

Outdoor Clothing and Equipment Brand of the Year

Winner: Páramo

Our winning brand this year has been called “unique” in the outdoor industry. One loyal follower said: “I’ve been using Páramo for 26 years and my original jacket is still as functional now as when it was bought; likewise a Cambia base layer tee which is now 25 years old which I wore when working in a steelworks in India due to it’s wicking capabilities is still amazing.”

Richard Pyne, Páramo CEO, said: “Thank you for this incredible honour of being named TGO Brand of the Year. Your support means the world to us, and readers awards like this drive every member of the Páramo team to continue to push boundaries with passion and innovation so that together we can all embrace the great outdoors. Here’s to many more adventures together!”

Commended: Rab

Beloved for its transparency on environmental impact as well as its dedication to the highest quality kit, Rab gets a commendation from you this year, after taking home the gold in 2024. Loyal devotees are still thoroughly impressed by this “true British outdoor gear made with the task at hand in mind”.

Jessica Burton, Rab’s UK Marketing Manager, explains: “We would like to thank all TGO readers for their trust in our brand and our products. Their continued support is a huge inspiration that drives us to continually innovate and create high-performance gear that resonates with the mountain people community’s spirit and needs.”

Commended: Alpkit

Whilst one reader credited Alpkit for “committing to increasing their range of outdoor clothing available in larger sizes” both online and in stores, others noted that the brand has “excellent customer service and it’s clear they really care about their customers, reward loyalty and care about the impact on the planet of their business.” Also applauded is Alpkit’s use of recycled materials; facilitation of recycling outdoor kit; repair service and community work and events.

David Hanney, CEO of Alpkit said: “We’re a small brand and to be mentioned in the same breadth as the big names is enough. To be commended is awesome and means the world. Thank you to everyone who voted for us and thank you to each and every member of the team, turning our dreams of going nice places and doing good things into a reality.”

Shortlisted

• Buffalo Systems
• INOV8
• Keela
• Montane
• Nortent
• OMM

Once again, thank you to every single one of you who nominated and voted for your favourite outdoor people, organisations and places in The Great Outdoors Reader Awards 2025.

Congratulations to your winners and all shortlisted. Here’s to a great year outdoors!