FAQs

We have 1,000m2 of climbing panels divided into bouldering for all standards, lead and top-rope routes, auto-belays for kids and adults, kids’ low bouldering, training and digital boards.

This gives us 50+ graded long routes, over 150 boulder problems, safe kids’ climbing and training spaces.

As a first-time novice climber you can simply walk in, register, watch our safety video, hire some shoes and go bouldering – aka climbing on low height walls without ropes above safety mats.

This process should only take around 5 minutes.

Learning to use any of the roped climbing options is more involved and requires the first-time novice climber to take one of our classes or courses to become acquainted with the techniques and responsibilities of climbing with ropes and belaying.

Every first-time visitor needs to sign one of our participation agreements and register.

Then depending on what you want to do, you can either start bouldering, or if you want to use the ropes and auto-belays, you’ll need to pass a short skills demonstration or questionnaire.

As an adult (over 18), you can either use our mobile app RockIT to register online or simply fill in all the necessary forms at reception.

All under 18’s must register in person at reception and be accompanied by their parent or guardian.

No, if you are an experienced climber you do not need to book to climb.

Novice boulderers can just turn up and climb following registration.

All novice climbers wanting to use the ropes and auto-belays will need to take one of our courses.

We allow – and encourage – anyone from 3yrs+ to have a go!

Under 14’s need to be directly supervised by an adult.

Under 18’s need to be registered at reception by a parent or guardian, after which they can boulder/climb unsupervised if deemed competent.

Any experienced roped climber can use the auto-belays following a free induction with one of our team.

Novice climbers will need to take a top-rope/auto-belay course.

Registered climbers can supervise up to 2 guests at any one time.

Registered adults can take up to 2 kids climbing on the ropes and in the bouldering area up to the limit of their own registration (roped and/or bouldering).

Kids must register with the U18 participation agreement at reception. Once deemed competent 14-18yr olds do not need adult supervision.

Non-climbing parents can watch their kids from the mats having become registered members and watched the bouldering induction video(s).

This ensures the supervising adult understands the rules of the centre and safe bouldering behaviour/etiquette.

We run a full set of nationally accredited progressive climbing pathways/courses called NICAS, our own kids’ programmes and basic fun introductory taster sessions.

Bouldering – Stretchy and/or loose clothing (yoga style) is ideal, along with specialist climbing shoes which can be hired at reception.

Roped climbing – as above plus a harness and a helmet if you’re doing a lead climbing course. U16s must use helmets when taking part in all roped climbing courses.

NB – No outdoor shoes are permitted on the climbing holds.

Of course! During quiet times – ie 10am-3pm – feel free to pop in and if a member of staff is available they will be more than happy to show you around.

Just be aware that when we are busy, this may be more difficult.

Yes, we have free covered lockable storage for up to 24 bikes.

Absolutely, both the café and Alpkit store are open to the public, however as soon as you step on a mat or pass the “go line” you must be registered.

Yes, but please bring a copy of your technical qualification and proof of valid insurance.

No, this can be done at reception when you register for the first time.

Climbing shoes, a modern harness (<10yrs old), and grooved belay plate or ABD, helmet (optional), and your own rope (30m+).

FYI belay plates must be suitable for use with sub 10mm ropes. Old style smooth sided belay plates are not permitted.

We have approved belay plates available to hire at reception.

Yes, we do but these must be worn with socks.

If you do not have socks with you, we have low-cost liner socks available to purchase at reception.

Sorry, we have a strict no ‘Taps Aff’ policy at The Ledge so please keep your top/t-shirt on when climbing or using the gym.

Everyone must wear a helmet when on a roped course that involves lead climbing.

U16s must wear a helmet when taking part in a roped climbing course.

If you’re booked on a course, we can provide you with a helmet if needed. You do not have to wear a helmet when using the auto-belays.

We would prefer you didn’t!

If you want to give your hurty trotters a break from your climbing shoes, then just pop on your nonholey clean socks or get some trendy Crocs to house them in!

You will not be allowed to climb on the ropes or auto-belays, but you still will be able to boulder.

You are welcome to try again after you’ve done your research!

Yes – and it’s free!

Yes, we have showers.

We don’t supply toiletries but travel-sized shampoos and shower gels are available to purchase at reception and towels are available to rent.

Sanitary products are available FOC.

Yes, we have over 40 lockers at the gym but you’ll need to bring your own padlock.

Yes, you can buy all the necessaries at our very own specialist rock climbing shop – The Bolt – which stocks climbing shoes, chalk, harnesses, belay devices etc.

No, once you’ve paid your entry fee you can climb all day!

This means you can come in for a morning session and come back again after work in the same day.

No additional charge.

Service/assistance dogs are welcome but unfortunately regular pups will need to stay home/in your van.