In the ever-growing world of social media influencers, Harry stands out with his breath-taking images and videos that capture the essence of mountain adventures, thrilling hikes, and serene camping moments. With a dedicated following of 16.5k on Instagram, Harry has become a source of inspiration for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. His feed is a visual journey through some of the most stunning landscapes, showcasing not just the beauty of nature but also the spirit of adventure. We had the pleasure of interviewing Harry and we invite you to join us as we delve into an engaging conversation with Harry, where he shares his passion for the wild, the stories behind his posts, and tips for fellow adventurers.
- Would you say that going on more outdoor adventures has improved your mental health?
Of course, it makes me appreciate how easy we have it in our day to day lives. For example if I need a drink I can just go to the tap. I don't need to find a running stream and have to filter some water. Also when I’m admiring the landscape formed over thousands of years of erosion, it reminds me how short our time here is.
- How did you get into camping/hiking/outdoor activities? & How has your relationship with nature changed through your adventures?
I was very outdoorsy as a child / early teen. I was in Cubs, Scouts, a fishing club and I was always out camping on the moors with my friends. That kind of died away in my later teens as I was doing all the things lads that age do. That was until I had some friends move away to America and Canada. When I saw their social media posts out in the mountains, I’d say to myself “If I lived there I’d always be out exploring”. Then it dawned on me “How can I say that when I don't even explore here?”. After that me and a friend organised our first visit to the Lake District to bivi camp in the Priest hole cave. After that I was hooked again.
- Can you share one of your most unforgettable outdoor adventures, and why it has stayed with you?
I took my son on his first wild camping trip at Haweswater reservoir. We had a drought that year and all the old buildings that are normally under the water were exposed. We got to explore the ruins and while sitting on them we dangling our feet into the water, all these tiny fish appeared and started nibbling our feet. It was just a great father son bonding time in the mountains.
- List your packing list for your camping trips? What is one thing you can’t live without on your adventures?
I’m quite minimalist with my camping gear. I don’t take too many luxuries. So just a normal tent, mat, quilt, stove and plenty of snacks. Although in winter I’ll always pack a hot water bottle. It’s amazing getting into a nice warm sleeping bag after a cold day in the mountains.
- Can you describe a time when things didn't go as planned on an adventure, and what it taught you about adaptability and resilience?
Early on in my trips around the lake district we ignored some weather warnings and decided to crack on with our camp. The weather was horrendous. The wind was literally blowing us over, the rain was coming down sideways. With daylight fading quickly, we decided to bail, descend and find somewhere much lower to camp. We were completely soaked and freezing cold. After this camp I made sure my gear was up for the conditions I was going out in and researched alot of the difficult points I had setting up camp in those conditions so I wouldn’t struggle like that again.
- What advice would you give someone looking to embark on their first major outdoor adventure? Are there any books, documentaries, or resources you'd recommend to someone wanting to deepen their understanding and skills in outdoor adventuring?
I’d say just get out and do it. Each adventure try to think of something which went wrong / what could have improved your experience and then research it. Also if you follow some of the wild camping YouTube channels. You can learn so many little golden nuggets of information which can make your life so much easier.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Harry for sharing his experiences and insights. His dedication to capturing the beauty of mountains, hikes, and camps reminds us of the incredible adventures that await beyond our daily routines. We can't help but feel inspired by Harrys passion for the great outdoors. His breath-taking images and captivating stories offer more than just a glimpse into his adventures; they invite us all to step out and explore the natural world with renewed enthusiasm.
If you haven't already, we highly encourage you to follow Harry on Instagram. His stunning visuals and genuine love for nature are sure to ignite your own wanderlust and perhaps inspire your next outdoor adventure. Here's to hoping this interview has sparked a desire in you to discover and cherish the wild places that our planet has to offer. Happy exploring!
