A New Form of Modern Sport: The Beginnings of Lakeland Rock Climbing 1880–1914

The English Lake District played a key role in British rock climbing and is arguably the place where first separated from mountaineering 1880s. This article sets its origins wider context of Alpinism. It then explains attractions to early climbers ways locations which emerged as participants exploited landscape create innovative challenges that were their enjoyment. provides rich detail on how sport extended body limits, developed new techniques, used better equipment. Leading there began record measure standard climbs—another innovation. Although clubs elsewhere exclusively male, relegating leading women mountaineers marginal role, Lakes, made notable contribution. concludes by evaluating significance for climbing.