As Britain shivers under a bitter Arctic freeze, one intrepid climber has seized the opportunity to achieve a spectacular and rare feat. Mick Ellerton, 48, successfully scaled the frozen waterfall at Gordale Scar, near Malham Cove in the Yorkshire Dales, on Wednesday, 7th January 2026.
A Rare Opportunity on the Ice
The experienced instructor, who works for Lost Earth Adventures, took advantage of temperatures that plunged well below freezing, transforming the dramatic landscape into a temporary ice-climbing venue. Mr Ellerton, originally from Australia but now living in Skipton, North Yorkshire, described the conditions as a rare occurrence. "I’ve done it probably three times in the last six years. So it very rarely comes into (the right) condition," he explained.
In fact, he was so taken with the formation that he climbed the waterfall on both Tuesday and Wednesday, joined by a colleague on the first day. A volunteer with the Upper Wharfedale Fell Rescue Association, Ellerton emphasised that such climbs must only be attempted with proper knowledge and gear. "There are different sections where you don’t want to go," he noted, adding that "that comes from experience of knowing what you’re looking for."
Storm Goretti Looms as Nation Shivers
Ellerton's daring ascent comes just ahead of a severe weather onslaught. The Met Office has issued a wave of warnings across the country for Thursday, as Storm Goretti is set to unleash a 'multi-hazard' salvo of heavy snow and winds potentially reaching 90mph.
Chief Forecaster Neil Armstrong warned that the most significant snow impacts are expected in parts of Wales and the Midlands, with rain and strong winds threatening widespread disruption elsewhere. The cold snap has already caused major disruption this week, leading to thousands of school closures and cutting off some remote northern communities.
Passion for the Peaks and Safety First
For Mick Ellerton, activities like ice climbing serve a dual purpose. They provide the sheer joy of being in the mountains—what he calls "type one fun"—while also keeping his rescue skills sharp for his voluntary work. He praised the "stunning" and "absolutely beautiful" Yorkshire Dales, which he finds quieter than other tourist hotspots like the Peak District.
While he wholeheartedly encourages people to explore the countryside for its physical and mental health benefits, his final message is one of caution. "It’s about being hill smart," he stated. "As long as people are getting out there safely, with the correct equipment, I’m all for it." With the frigid conditions forecast to last until the weekend, his words serve as a timely reminder to all adventurers.
