Meet The Team

After 15 years in the fire service, Richard co-founded Pied A Terre Adventures, with Kirstie, in 2011. His infectious passion for the outdoors shines through his 20+ years of mountain exploration and impressive collection of qualifications that include Walking Group Leader, Hill & Moorland Leader, Nordic Walking Instructor, Level 2 Award in First Aid for Mental Health, NNAS Tutor Award, Mountain Leader and International Mountain Leader (IML). As lead guide, Richard has trained and guided adventurers worldwide, helping people overcome challenges, learn new skills, and find delight in the outdoors. There is no doubt that Richard goes above and beyond for his clients.

Kirstie co-founded Pied A Terre Adventures with Richard in 2011. Passionate about connecting people with the natural world, she believes in the transformative power of nature for learning, health, and spiritual well-being. Whatever the weather, Kirstie loves walking, and her absolute passion is enabling others to enjoy it too and to create the most incredible outdoor experiences for guests.

Not only is Dave a qualified trainer and outdoor instructor, but also a remarkably talented professional photographer, videographer, and photojournalist. With a deep wanderlust, he has been privileged to explore numerous breath-taking locations worldwide. Dave loves the chance to connect with new people and nurture their appreciation for the outdoors, imparting wisdom, new skills and a profound understanding of nature.

A Londoner at heart, Fran will however head to the hills whenever the opportunity arises. Recently Fran has completed walking Lands End to John O’Groats, but added an additional challenge by trying to take in as many national trails as possible, thereby making it even longer! Whether Fran is walking with friends, sharing knowledge with adults or instructing Duke of Edinburgh participants, she loves that her work is based around what she enjoys. As a qualified International Mountain Leader and Rock Climbing Instructor, there is no doubt Fran is a highly experienced member of our team.

Born and bred in Scotland, mountains are part of Andy’s DNA. Andy has gained unparalleled expertise through his qualifications as a Winter Mountain Leader and International Mountain Leader. As an extremely experienced Lead Guide, he has conquered every British mountain at least once and relishes introducing like-minded individuals to his favourite places and empowering them with the skills to explore untamed landscapes.

Since undertaking a Summer Mountain Leader award in 2005, Ali has since added to her long list of qualifications including certifications as International Mountain Leader, Climber Wall Instructor, Mountain Bike Instructor, and D of E Leader and Assessor. Ali has travelled all over the world and, as a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, she often takes the time to gen up on her knowledge which feeds nicely into her travel writing for outdoor magazines

Assistant guide, Harvey, has an impressive resumé of qualifications in a range of leadership and outdoors skills including his FREC 3, an ILM Leadership & Management Level 3, as well as NNAS Bronze/Silver and Level 2* Kayaking & Canoeing, making him the ideal candidate to lead Pied A Terre Adventure’s offerings. However, it’s the new connections that the role enables him to make, both on and off the hill, that really drives him. Most at home in the outdoors, Harvey keeps busy with a range of hobbies, from caving and white water kayaking to climbing and hiking.

Assistant guide Steve is an ever constant presence at our large group events. His cheery and fun-loving personality (he is always smiling!) means he is a popular member of our team and someone we can always rely on. Steve loves the outdoors – whether that is trekking, running or walking the dog – outdoor adventures are clearly his passion. With his NNAS Bronze and Silver and first aid qualifications under his belt, he is also a safe pair of hands.

Mick joined Pied A Terre in 2011, bringing a contagious passion for the outdoors and a wicked sense of humour. With over 18 years of experience as a watch manager and qualified trainer in the Fire Service’s Search and Rescue team, he’s a popular character that enjoys discovering new routes and taking like-minded nature enthusiasts on new adventures.

Pied A Terre Adventure’s loyal companion, Maggie the Rhodesian Ridgeback, often accompanies the team on long walks. Appointed as chief squirrel chaser and an expert in picnic quality control, Maggie is an integral part of the team.