Ben Ryle
Expedition Leader
Ben is happiest outdoors, be it pushing his limits or taking it easy around the fire with friends. Since discovering it was possible to make a living from adventuring, Ben has been striving to do just that.
From early beginnings Mountain Biking as a teenager in South West England, a BTEC National Diploma in Outdoor Adventure (tutored at the time by fellow 360 guide Steve Ellis) and a move to Snowdonia and then the Pyrenees, Ben’s life is entirely geared towards the outdoors and the adventures it offers.
Now qualified as a Mountain Leader, International Mountain Leader, Climbing Instructor and Cycle guide, Ben has gone on to lead expeditions all over the world and also all over his beloved Snowdonia where he has also taught a generation of youngsters to climb.
A firm believer in the myriad physical and mental health benefits of adventure, Ben loves helping folk get out in the thick of it and teaching skills for progression to new horizons.
When not instructing, Ben can normally be found running, cycling or clinging to a crag in the mountains.
Interview
What was your first adventure?
The first big adventure was cycling to Lac Neuchâtel, Switzerland with a cousin. The trip opened my eyes to the possibilities of adventure. During the hours of quiet thought time in the saddle, I decided to go back to education and do a course in Outdoor Adventure.
What has been your most memorable adventure?
Summiting 50 of the +3000m Peaks of the Pyrenees over 17days in a continuous unsupported journey. We saw some of the most spectacular views we’ve ever seen and also experienced some of the scariest terrain!
What item of travel kit you can't do without?
A map. I’m a little obsessed with pouring over maps and imagining the next journey. Also a Headtorch, you never know when you’ll get caught out after lights out.
What three bits of advice would you give to people who are keen on adventures, trekking and climbing?
- Keep it chilled. The calmer you can stay when you’re close to your limits, the easier it is to push through them.
- Eat and Drink like there’s no tomorrow! People new to pushing themselves all day often struggle to adapt to the intake needed to maintain energy levels.
- Only carry what you need. The kit lists are all you need when expeditioning – taking extra only makes already difficult days harder.
What is the best thing about your job?
I’m very lucky to meet a huge range of people from all walks of life and to spread my love of adventuring to them!
Why did you choose to work for 360?
As Jo Bradshaw’s go-to sidekick, I jumped at the chance when she said she needed someone on an upcoming 360 ascent of Elbrus. I’ve only ever heard good things about 360!