Mountain Classifications

Q. What are the two classification of mountains?

Gian Carlo Roberto, Malolos

A Mountain in England, Wales & Ireland is defined as being a high point over 610m (2000ft) above mean sea-level with 30m (approx 100ft) of 'prominence' or 'ascent' on all sides.

English and Welsh mountains are also sometimes known by the acronym Hewitt which stands for Hill in England, Wales or Ireland over Two Thousand feet.

There are currently 0 Hewitts in the British Isles - 180 in England, 136 in Wales, 0 on The Isle of Man and in Ireland.

In Scotland it is more complicated.

A Mountain in Scotland is defined as being a high point over 915m (3000ft) above mean sea-level with 30m (approx 100ft) of 'prominence' or 'ascent' on all sides (known as Murdos) or a high point over 610m (2000ft) but under 914.9m (2999ft) above mean sea-level with 150m (approx 500ft) of 'prominence' or 'ascent' on all sides. These lower mountains are called Corbetts (between 2500ft and 2999ft high) and Grahams (between 2000ft and 2499ft high).

Munros are Scottish Mountains over 915m (3000ft) high that have been 'elected' to Munro status by the SMC (Scottish Mountaineering Club).

There are currently 442 Murdos, 222 Corbetts, 219 Grahams and 282 Munros.

Hope this helps . . .

Mike (Editor)

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