Ian is one of Britain’s leading alpinists and mountain photographer. He has led expeditions to the Himalaya, Alaska, Greenland, Patagonia and Kyrgyzstan. He made the first ascent of Arwa Spire in India and has climbed new routes on Annapurna III in Nepal and Saf MInal and Kedar Dome in India. Ian has been nominated for the prestigious international mountaineering award Le Piolet d’Or (mountaineering’s version of an Oscar) four times, the most nominations of any mountaineer in the world.

Closer to home, Ian’s 15 day winter ascent of the Lafaille route on the Dru, a 1000m granite spire in the Alps, pushed endurance mountaineering to the extreme, while his numerous winter ascents in Scotland are recognised as amongst the most technical climbs so far achieved.

Ian Parnell just below the summit of Everest

"We were impressed by how well you paced your talk, and how appropriately you pitched it to the nine and ten years olds that made up your audience; not an easy task! You answered all of the children's questions with good humour and sensitivity, especially the more gruesome ones! The children have all reported that they learned a great deal about mountains, and they especially loved the mountain climbing activity you got them to do."
Lisa Read, Year 5 Teacher, Dobcroft Junior School

In 2005 Ian climbed Everest, filming Sir Ranulph Fiennes attempt to climb the mountain, reaching the top when Ranulph was forced to turn around on the final day. In 2007, Ian and Sir Ranulph teamed up again and made a successful ascent of the North face of the Eiger, Switzerland, raising 1.5 million for Marie Curie Cancer Care. Ian filmed their ascent for live broadcast on ITV evening news, as well as an hour long programme shown on ITV3.

As one of climbing’s best mountain photographers and film makers, Ian’s insights into the world of mountaineering are accompanied by stunning images and raw footage, capturing the reality of modern mountaineering.  He is a fascinating and inspirational speaker, with the ability to apply his experiences across the board, whether addressing a room full of corporate delegates or an assembly of young people.

"Ian gave the LTA team a great, inspirational talk at the National Tennis Centre. Ian has a very engaging style and he gave us a great insight into the skills needed and techniques we can all use to achieve our goals. We would highly recommend Ian for an inspiring and motivational session for any team.”
Lawn Tennis Association

Ian has starred in the mountaineering films Cold Haul, Hard XS and Psyche, the latter picking up Best Mountain Adventure Film and People’s Choice awards at the 2007 Kendal Mountain Film Festival.

If you are interested in booking Ian please contact us.