FAQ's

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Bouldering FAQ's

Do I need an induction?

If you’ve never climbed before you'll need to book onto an induction session. Inductions are a great way to learn the essentials of climbing, including safety rules, etiquette and basic footwork techniques. All equipment will be provided for your session. There is a limited capacity per session, so booking is essential.

If you have climbed before and are able to answer the basic safety questions, you will not need an induction.

If you're bringing the kids but don't intend to climb yourself, you'll still need to come to an induction to ensure you understand the dangers in the wall and how to keep your little ones safe.

I am coming with experienced friends, do I need an induction?

If you plan on climbing with people who have climbed before, they are able to supervise you on a 1:2 ratio providing they answer the safety questions correctly.

Is it suitable for children?

Yes – there are climbs appropriate for children of any ability, however due to the nature of climbing and bouldering, the minimum age for climbing and bouldering is 5 years old. Under 18s will need to be supervised by an experienced adult climber, with a ratio of 1:2.

Children aged 14-17 are able to undergo a Junior Assessment if they wish to climb independently. Parents or guardians will need to be present during the assessment. Once the assessment is complete, the climber will be considered competent for themselves in bouldering.

Do I need to be fit and strong?

Not really. Climbing often isn’t as strenuous as it might look. A few simple techniques and selecting easier angled climbs can mean that it’s much more about balance and a little flexibility than needing lots of upper body strength. Come and have a go; you might be surprised!

What should I wear?

Ideally, lightweight sportswear and warmer outer layers such as a fleece or hoody. Trousers or leggings are recommended.

Ideal footwear is the specific climbing shoes available to hire from reception if you don’t have your own (they are free of charge).

Long hair should be tied back, and necklaces, long earrings, rings, watches etc., should be removed to avoid the risk of getting caught and causing injury. Phones, wallets and other valuables should be removed from pockets and stored the lockers or cubby holes provided.

Please remember that you are fully responsible for your belongings while on the premises

Is my session transferable or refundable if I cannot make the session?

Inductions are free of charge for premium membership holders. We have limited capacity for inductions, so if you fail to notify the climbing team that you will not be able to make it, it means we someone else has missed out on that spot. Failing to turn up 3 times will result in being asked to pay a fee for an induction spot next time.

If you are not premium membership holder, the cost will be £15pp. This includes 30-45 minutes with the instructor with a ratio of 1:8, rental shoes, rental chalk, and entrance for the day

You will only need to undergo an induction once. After this, you are considered competent in bouldering.

I am competent in bouldering, does this mean I’m competent in climbing with ropes?

No. There is a completely different set of skills and knowledge needed for rope climbing. If you are competent in climbing, you will be asked to prove your competency through a quick and easy proficiency test. This will be done at the Climbing Wall Supervisors’ discretion. Failing to demonstrate safe belaying or failure to identify the required knots and gear may result in a declined entrance to the climbing wall (you will still be able to boulder provided you have answered the bouldering safety questions correctly).

Can I book onto a rope climbing lesson?

Yes, we will be providing rope lessons to adults in a ratio of 1:4. This session will last around 2 hours and all equipment will be provided. The cost and start date are TBC

How high is the bouldering wall?

The wall bouldering wall is only 4.5m at its highest point, with our climbing wall reaching a peak of 7.5m. But remember, while your hands might be at the top, your feet are unlikely to be more than 3m off the ground. There are safety crash mats throughout and we will teach you to land safely to minimise the risk of injury during the induction sessions.