Leanne is a freelance outdoor instructor, mountain leader, and bike guide based in Scotland. Passionate about inspiring others to embrace the outdoors, Leanne believes in the transformative power of nature. For her, slowing down, practicing mindfulness, and connecting deeply with rugged landscapes have been essential to her own wellbeing. 

Leanne works with a diverse range of groups, from young Duke of Edinburgh Award participants and international school students on overseas trips to individuals involved in the criminal justice system and members of the British Army undertaking adventure training. In addition to her freelance work, Leanne runs her own business, offering an ‘Introduction to Bikepacking’ weekend designed to help women build their skills and confidence in a supportive environment.  

Leanne is currently working towards her International Mountain Leader qualification, with some exciting high-altitude ascents on the horizon. She’s already ticked off notable peaks such as Annapurna Base Camp in Nepal (4,130m) and Jebel Shams in Oman (3,018m), and she's eager to get back into the big mountains. Her passion for hiking is stronger than ever.

Leanne’s long-distance trail experience includes the Arran Coastal Way, Mull of Galloway Trail, and the West Highland Way. This year, she has her sights set on the Pennine Way and the Fife Coastal Path.

In recent years, she’s also been on a mission to complete as many British bikepacking routes as possible. Her impressive list includes the Badger Divide, Capital Trail, Cairngorm Loop, Southern Upland Way, 3 Lochs Way, South Downs Way, Chalk Ridge (Isle of Wight), Whithorn Way, and the 5 Ferries route around Arran.

Check out Leanne's wonderful blog for us on the topic of mindfulness in bikepacking. 

QUICKFIRE Q+A

How did you first get into outdoor activities, and what inspired you to start sharing your adventures with others?

When I was younger (ages 6-12), my dad would take my brother and me to explore the local woods. We’d set traps, build shelters, and he’d encourage us to sneak up on him as part of our “ninja training.” We did the occasional hike, but it was more about connecting with nature than anything else. I moved to Glasgow at 17 and didn’t do much outdoors until I was 27, when I got my first mountain bike. I vividly remember a solo camping trip to the Isle of Arran with a massive rucksack and a hammock. That trip really ignited my passion for camping and biking. It took everyone, including myself, by surprise when I changed careers at 30 to become an outdoor instructor.

What’s your favourite outdoor activity, and why does it stand out to you?

I absolutely love bikepacking. To me, it’s the perfect combination of movement, meditation, and finding tranquility in solitude, all while exploring wild and remote places.

What piece of gear or clothing can you not live without when you’re out on the trails or in the wild?

I’m a huge fan of synthetic gear. I’m allergic to down, so I haven’t had much choice, but I spend a lot of time outdoors and have never been let down by synthetic materials. They perform incredibly well in the UK’s often unpredictable weather, and I trust them completely. Having reliable equipment is essential to feeling prepared and staying safe in the wilderness.

How do you prepare for a new adventure or trip, both physically and mentally?

I think a bit differently due to my neurodiversity. I’m super organised and a creative thinker, which helps a lot on adventures. I’ve also had extensive training and experience in many sports and outdoor practices. Above all, I believe in trial and error. I remind myself to give things a go, keep myself safe, make smart decisions when I can, and be okay with not completing everything I originally planned.