What is Weaselling?

I've realised that all the words I use day-in day-out to do with all these outdoor activities are in fact total gobbledegook to many people so I have decided to write some explanations of some of the terms and some descriptions of what some of the activities involve.

First up is 'Weaselling'; I'm not sure who came up with this sport nor who named it. I'm sure it’s one of those activities that most people have done as kids and I'm sure it’s something which most climbers resort to around the crag regularly (there are even some climbs which feel more like weaselling, Telescope Tunnel on Birchen edge certainly). 

Weaselling basically involves squeezing through gaps in rocks (over, under or between) clambering over boulders and generally re-enacting many of the movements of caving, only above ground. It usually involves a great deal of scrambling over rocks and plenty of opportunities to get muddy and grubby, all that good stuff kids love! This was probably what motivated someone at some point to think it was a good idea to name it and take groups off onto the hills to engage in it in a more structured and purposeful manner.

It’s the sort of activity that is great with groups with any level of ability, fitness or experience. An activity everyone can enjoy. Its popularity with groups and outdoor centres is probably down to its accessibility and the ease with which those who don’t feel confident can miss any sections they don’t feel comfortable with. Unlike in a caving or rock-climbing situation where the whole group must do all or nothing weaselling can be dipped in and out of, allowing people to do one ‘squeeze’ and then miss another without any great drama.

If you want to have a go at weaselling then get in touch with us darrenellis@live.com or visit www.adventure-skills.co.uk.


Darren Ellis