Rock Climbing

As a fun and exciting sport, rock climbing has become one of the most popular pastimes in the world.

A range of rock climbing gear and safety equipment is used, such as a harness, rope, helmet, belay plate and karabiners. If you’re new to rock climbing, joining a club normally allows you to borrow their gear so you don’t have to worry about splashing out on brand new kit.

The physical challenges require strength, endurance and mental control, as well as the knowledge of certain techniques and how to use certain gear and equipment.

There are many indoor climbing walls across the UK, giving you the opportunity for a ‘taster’ session. Climbing indoors is a good way to learn, with centres offering courses, supervision and kit. Other courses are run at a variety of outdoor centres in the Lakes, Wales and southern England.

In England alone, there are many outdoor spots for rock climbers, such as the Peak District and the Lakes, and for those travelling further afield, Europe and the rest of the world offer an array of excellent locations – with the additional benefit of sunshine!

Useful websites:
www.westmidlandsrock.co.uk

Clubs:
www.frcc.co.uk (Fell & Rock Climbing Club of The English Lake District)

Instruction and Courses:
www.alphamountaineering.co.uk
www.rockandice.net
www.climb365.net (Based in the Lake District)
www.learn2climb.com (The Wye Valley)
www.llanberisguides.co.uk (Mountain guides in Snowdonia)
www.compasswest.co.uk (International school of rock climbing)
www.skye-mountain-guides.co.uk
www.mountainplan.com
www.seracoutdoorsports.co.uk (Walking holidays and rock climbing courses)
northwalesclimbers.co.uk
www.sea2summit.net (Rock climbing and walking courses)

Expeditions and holidays:
www.rockandsun.com (Rock Climbing Holidays and Courses Worldwide)
www.adventureexpeditions.co.uk (Rock climbing, trekking and mountaineering)
www.hebrideanpathways.co.uk (Guided walks and climbs)
www.climbhotrock.com (Climbing expeditions, Africa)
www.climb-europe.com (Helping to plan Rock climbing holidays)

Accommodation:
www.sunrockaccommodation.com