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Beginners’ Rock Climbing Courses

Introduction

We offer a range of beginners’ rock climbing courses in the Peak District, Yorkshire, the Lake District and Eryri (Snowdonia).

Dates

In general, we do not schedule these in advance, as we like to make each one bespoke. This is how we adapt them to cater for different levels of ability and experience. However, we do have a limited number of  ‘open’ courses which are available to book on. These are shown in our events calendar.

Purpose

A beginners’ course is ideal for you if you have never rock climbed at all before and just want to give it a go. Alternatively, you may have climbed regularly indoors and want to make the transition to climbing outside on real rock. Or, you may already have some rock climbing experience but want to consolidate what you have learned, focusing on climbing technique or equipment or technical rope-work.

Whatever your background, one of beginners’ rock climbing courses can be tailored to suit your needs.

Instructor:client ratio

The ratio for these courses is 1:6 (instructor:client) maximum, depending on exact activities.

Other courses:

If a beginners’ rock climbing course is not right for you, then have a look at some of the other courses and guiding that we offer:

…or see what our clients say about us.

A rock climber removes equipment during a rock climbing course in the Peak District

Course Details

Who is the course for?

This course is ideal for anyone trying rock climbing for the very first time, or making the transition from indoor to outdoor climbing. You might already be able to tie in to your harness and belay a climber, but if not then you will be shown this as part of the course.

Where is it held?

The beginners’ rock climbing courses can be held in the Peak District, Yorkshire, the Lake District or Eryri (Snowdonia). The Peak District is a popular choice that works very well and which we recommend.

How long is the course?

This course is a minimum of one day in duration, but is often booked as a two-day weekend. We can also run the course for longer periods, perhaps separated by a few days to give time for you to reflect and practice.

What does the course cover?

  • Climbing technique – body position, balance, footwork and handwork
  • Essential equipment and knots, including tying in to your harness
  • Belaying other climbers
  • Crag safety and etiquette, including legal access
  • Using a climbing guidebook

What equipment is included?

You will need to provide: warm clothing including a waterproof jacket; approach shoes or walking boots; climbing shoes; and a rucksack of 30 litres or more. If you have your own harness and helmet then you will probably be more comfortable wearing your own.

We will:-

  • Provide harness, helmet, and all technical climbing hardware.
  • Discuss an appropriate kit list when you book.

What does it cost?

“Open” courses are shown in the Calendar along with their prices.

“Private” bookings for one day start at £215 for one person; £230 for two people (i.e. £115 per person); £245 for three people (i.e. £82 per person); £260 for four people (i.e. £65 per person) etc. From the 4th day, a discounted rate will apply.