It is actually called Beinn Nibheis.

The name Ben Nevis is an Anglicization of the original Gaelic name. Many people translate this historical title as meaning ‘Venomous Mountain’, but its original purpose may be more complicated than that. Beinn is easily translated as mountain. While Nibheis can be translated as ‘malicious’ or ‘venomous’, it could also refer to a god’s name, specifically the Celtic god Lugh, whose place of worship was said to be on mountain tops.

Ben Nevis was once an active volcano.

Specifically, what we now see is the remains of a volcano that collapsed in on itself, with ascents generally travelling through what was once the inner dome. Evidence suggests that the collapse caused a mega explosion comparable in force to Krakatoa. Glacial eroding has further shaped the mountain into what it is today.

The first person to climb to the top of Ben Nevis is reported to be . The first account of the mountain’s structure came from John Williams in 1774.

Despite these early climbs, it’s height – and position as the UK’s tallest peak – wasn’t confirmed by the Ordnance Survey until 1847.

At the summit, on a clear day, there are incredible views which can stretch as far as Northern Ireland. A feature of the summit is the Old Observatory, which was opened in 1883 which provided hourly meteorological data for almost 20 years.

Trips run on Fridays and Saturdays most weeks from May to September; click here to view our website and book your guided trip today!