What does HuMP stand for in hill walking?

HuMP stands for Hundred Metre Prominence. It's a classification for hills that require you to descend at least 100m (328ft) before you can climb to any higher ground, making them independent peaks rather than just shoulders of bigger mountains.

How many HuMPs are there in the UK and Ireland?

There are 3,984 HuMPs total—2,984 in Great Britain and 1,000 in Ireland. It's considered a life-long pursuit to complete them all due to the sheer volume.

Can urban hills be HuMPs?

Yes, absolutely. If a hill meets the 100m prominence requirement, it counts—whether it's a remote wilderness peak or an urban hill like Constitution Hill in Swansea. The classification is purely mathematical, not based on beauty or remoteness.

The Classification Index

The HuMPs: The Geography of Independence

Forget the highest peaks and look at the hills that stand on their own—this is the fascinating, mathematical world of the HuMPs.

25 August 202612 min read