Belonging on the Wall: Glasgow’s Queer Climbing Community

Once seen as the domain of muscle-bound gym bros or skinny white cis men, climbing is changing — and here in Glasgow, that transformation is being powered by the energy and presence of queer climbers who are helping to redefine what strength, confidence and community look like.

TCA welcomes

Queer climbers

At TCA, we’re proud to have become a second home for a growing number of LGBTQ+ climbers who are making our centres feel more vibrant, inclusive and joyful than ever. You’ll still hear the familiar slap of chalked-up hands on holds, but now you’re just as likely to hear bursts of laughter from a queer social night or see groups gathered over tea and biscuits after a climb.

“We’ve seen a remarkable shift in climbing demographics over the years in all our centres,” says Helen, our Head of Marketing. “Our aim has always been to create a space where everyone – regardless of gender identity, sexuality or climbing ability – feels welcome. The rise in queer participation isn’t a passing trend. It’s what happens when people finally see themselves reflected in sport.”

We regularly hear from climbers who tell us just how powerful it is to find a space where they don’t have to edit or hide who they are. In our annual survey we heard this from multiple people.

One queer climber told us:
“TCA is the only sporting space I’ve been to where I don’t feel I have to hide part of myself.”

Another said:
“As a queer person, I feel welcomed and safe at TCA – which is rare in most fitness environments.”

These words mean everything to us. They remind us why we put so much care into creating spaces where people can connect not just through climbing, but through shared values of kindness, inclusion and respect.

A wider perspective

We’re not alone in this. El Temple, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Manager for the Association of British Climbing Walls, told us why these spaces matter:

“Over the past few years, we’ve seen a steady rise in LGBTQ+ and queer climbing groups across the UK. These groups offer a softer, safer entry point into a sport that can feel intimidating for those who’ve often been made to feel like outsiders in traditional fitness spaces.

Simply knowing that a queer group exists within a centre — or seeing a pride flag that’s there year-round — can be a quiet but powerful signal that this is somewhere you’ll be respected, supported and understood.”

Queer Climbing Social

That’s exactly what we hope our Queer Climbing Social, run in collaboration with Glasgow Queer Adventures, offers to anyone who’s been curious to try climbing but unsure whether they’d feel safe or seen.

Whether you’re queer or questioning, completely new to the sport or have been climbing for years, we want you to know that our walls are for you. These sessions run twice a month and are open to all abilities. Come as you are — and don’t worry if you don’t know anyone yet. We promise you’ll be greeted with warmth and encouragement.

And if you’re visiting for the first time? Your second climb is free.
Help us to keep building a climbing scene that reflects the full, beautiful spectrum of who we are.

Queer Climbing Social
📍 The Newsroom (Kinning Park) & The Prop Store (Maryhill)
Twice monthly – check our blog for current dates or follow Glasgow Queer Adventures for updates
🌈 Open to all LGBTQ+ climbers and allies