This is a major reference book for all walkers and climbers who want to explore the mountains of the UK and Ireland in winter conditions, as well as for those who wish to lead groups. It is split into six sections: the winter environment, basic winter skills, snow and avalanche, security on steep ground, winter climbing and winter incidents, all of which contain colourful illustrations, photos and maps which bring essential techniques to life. This book has been written by Andy Cunningham and Allen Fyffe and provides an indispensable guide to the skills required for winter walking and climbing.

This third edition has been fully updated, in particular the section on snow and avalanche, as well as some modernising of climbing techniques to align with current methods and equipment.

In 2014 the publisher, Mountain Training, celebrated 50 years of leading the way and currently overseas thirteeen qualifications and two personal skills schemes in walking, climbing and mountaineering. This book is the official handbook for Mountain Training's winter qualifications: Winter Mountain Leader, International Mountain Leader and Winter Mountaineering Can Climbing Instructor. It is endorsed by the British Mountaineering Council, Mountaineering Scotland and Mountaineering Ireland.