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Born:

1998, London, England

Biggest achievement:

Free ascent of Magic Mushroom (5.14a, 31 pitches), El Capitan (2025) / First ascent of Cloud Gate (8B+), Cratcliffe Tor / E9 trad headpoints including Appointment with Death and Meshuga.

DMM athlete since:

2026

Jim Pope is a Sheffield-based climber and one of the most exciting all-round talents British climbing has produced in recent years. He grew up at The Castle Climbing Centre in north London, started climbing outdoors with his family in the Lake District at six, and by the age of thirteen was headpointing E6 trad routes. His progression since then has been remarkable: sport routes up to 8c+, E9 trad headpoints, competition podiums at European level and a growing list of bold first ascents on gritstone. In November 2024 he added what he considers his most significant achievement to date: a free ascent of Magic Mushroom on El Capitan, a 31-pitch 5.14a big wall route, making him one of only a handful of climbers to have freed the sustained and rarely repeated line. With his sights now set on Eternal Flame on Trango Tower in Pakistan, Jim is a climber whose ambitions are growing as fast as his ability to realise them.

"Climbing has taught me a lot about myself, what I value and want to get out of life." 

Get to know Jim

When did you start climbing?

I started climbing when I was 6 in the Lake District with my family. At first it was just outdoors during school holidays, then I joined The Castle kids club when I was 9 and was hooked.

What do you consider your most significant climbing achievement to date?

Climbing Magic Mushroom on El Capitan last November definitely felt like the most significant achievement. It challenged me the most across different areas of my climbing.

What are your professional plans for the coming year?

In Summer 2026 I am heading to Pakistan to try Eternal Flame on Trango Tower. That is my main focus right now.

What has climbing taught you?

A lot about myself, what I value and what I want to get out of life.

Who are your role models, both within and outside the climbing community?

I really look up to my friends for inspiration. Sam Pratt and Sam Lawson for inspiring others through their creative work, and my school friend Lotte Wubben-Moy who plays football for the Lionesses. She goes above and beyond, not just being a great player but using her platform for positive change.

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