Beginners

Climbing is a great sport that can be enjoyed by all ages. There are a number of ways to get started:

Bouldering

Bouldering is low-level climbing over mats – you don’t need ropes and you don’t need to book. It’s the easiest way to start climbing. You can drop in anytime. Save time: complete your forms (with safety video) online before you visit. Under 16s must be supervised by a registered adult (max 2 per adult).

Auto belay inductions – on request

Auto belays let you climb solo – no partner, rope or belay device needed. We offer auto belay inductions at The Arc. Ask at reception or call 01249 471182 for more info. Learn the key safety rules and get hands-on guidance from an experienced instructor.

Roped Taster

These quick ‘have-a-go’ taster sessions are designed to introduce you to the world of indoor climbing without committing to a formal course. We run Adult and Family Tasters for 8yrs+.  View calendar to see all available sessions:

Book a Taster

Intro course

Roped Beginners

Ready to start your climbing journey? Our Roped Beginners’ course is the perfect first step, equipping you with the skills and confidence to top-rope independently. No previous experience is needed – just a sense of adventure!

Led by friendly, experienced instructors, you’ll learn essential techniques including how to tie in, belay safely and move efficiently on the wall. By the end of the course, you’ll feel confident tackling roped climbs on your own, opening the door to a fun and sociable way to stay active.

Climb with confidence. Book your course today and enjoy the thrill of climbing!

“Staff were really helpful and made us feel welcome even though we had no clue what we were doing. After some coaching and persuasion from the staff, even our youngest was climbing to the top. Great place for a family adventure.”
★★★★★ Google review

Course options

There are two main course variations for adults. Each runs over two sessions. You must be able to attend both parts.

• Roped Beginners (weekend)
  Want to get climbing sooner? Our weekend option covers everything over two consecutive days – perfect for fast learners or those keen to dive right in.
• Roped Beginners (weeknights)
  Prefer a steady pace? Our weeknight course runs over two evenings on consecutive weeks – ideal for building skills gradually around your schedule.

Each includes:

✔ Two instructor-led sessions
✔ One month of free equipment hire.
✔ Optional add-on: £30 for a discounted month of unlimited climbing

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We also run a Roped Beginners (12-15) for young climbers. The Arc also offers a Straight to Lead course.