An update from the Press
A few words from Rob and the team after an incredible start to 2025, with some book news and festival thank yous.
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The start of 2025 was always going to be busy, but just a couple of months in, it already feels like we’re halfway through the year! By the end of March, we’ll have published three books – Northern Horizons (available now and receiving some wonderful reviews), Junior Mountaineering Club of Scotland 1925–2025 (pre-orders now shipping), and I Don’t Do Mountains! (due 17 March and already generating a real buzz!). We’ve also put on what was probably our most enjoyable programme yet at the Fort William Mountain Festival and attended Magic Mountain, a fantastic grassroots festival on the Isle of Skye. On top of that, author Barbara Henderson has running a series of lessons for Primary 4 children in Inverness, discussing writing and publishing books while sharing snippets from her upcoming children’s adventure story.
Beavering away in the office, the days and weeks fly by, and these past few weeks have reminded us just how enjoyable it is to get out and about, connecting with the people we publish for. Over the course of the weekend at Fort William, more than 300 people attended our Press workshops and events, with many more spending time in and around our exhibition space, learning about what we do. But success isn’t just about numbers. It’s difficult to quantify the value of catching up with old friends, making new ones, reflecting on projects, meeting fellow writers and artists, and discussing plans for the future – but whatever that value is, it was certainly high! Stepping away from the day-to-day invariably sparks fresh ideas – the challenge now is finding the space to nurture them now back in the office…
One of the most exciting aspects of the Festival has been watching it evolve into something much more than just presentations and organisations covering traditional outdoor pursuits. This year’s programme brought together a brilliant mix of events spanning the arts, literature, culture, activities and organisations, with individual sessions often touching on multiple themes. It’s a reminder that what we do doesn’t exist in isolation – understanding the wider context enriches the way we experience the mountains.
A huge thank you to everyone who took part – whether you stopped by for a chat, visited our exhibition, or attended a workshop or presentation. It was fantastic to see so many positive and enthusiastic people in the lead-up to and throughout the weekend. A massive shout-out as well to everyone involved in organising our Press activities – the artists and writers who led our workshops, the Press team who coordinated our events, the brilliant selection of speakers we hosted, and, of course, the Highland Bookshop for their unwavering support and company throughout. A huge amount of preparation goes into putting together even our small part of the programme, and we truly appreciate everyone’s efforts.
Finally, a heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed to the very special Storylands Sessions on the Saturday night – hosts Merryn Glover and Hamish Napier, our visitors from Badenoch, the local musicians from Lochaber and the Creatives writers and artists. I felt at once moved, nourished and energised by the whole experience.
And, last but not least, a huge thank you to the incredible Festival team, all of whom are volunteers. It’s been a privilege to develop our contribution over the past few years, and we’re honoured to be part of such an inspiring event.
I’m already looking forward to the Festival in 2026!