Full Day Rock Climbing Course in Sussex
Warning: rock climbing may be addictive.
Wondering what it takes to go from zero to outdoor rock climber? The answer may surprise you: just one full, glorious day.
In this course, we’ll teach you everything you need to know to get started on your rock climbing journey. Our syllabus covers how to tie onto the rope, how to safely belay your climbing buddy, the techniques you’ll need to climb your first outdoor wall, as well as the fascinating history of the sport.
With a full day on our hands, we’ll be able to slowly increase the difficulty of your climbing routes while also making sure they’re suitable to your experience.
Since 2005, we’ve taught hundreds of aspiring climbers how to take their first vertical steps outdoors. We’re passionate about introducing newcomers to the sport in a way that is inclusive, warm and welcoming.
The course takes place at Harrison’s Rocks. It’s a short 45-minute drive from both Brighton and London, making it an ideal spot for a day out: both for the climbing and the scenery.
Information
Season
March to October
Duration
7hrs
Group Size
3-8
Restrictions
Minimum age: 18 Max weight: 18 stone (115kg).
Aim
To teach the key rock climbing and belaying techniques needed to get started in this fantastic sport and to look at personal climbing skills.
Who is it for?
This course is ideal for first-time climbers, as well as anyone who’s ever tried climbing or bouldering indoors. We’ll provide you with all the equipment you need and teach you the basics of climbing.
Prerequisites
A reasonable level of fitness is required.
Groups
PRIVATE BOOKINGS
For groups of 8+ please enquire.
Itinerary
The course starts with an introduction and safety briefing from our climbing instructors. We then head to the rocks for some warm up bouldering problems. Your instructors will then show you how to fit your climbing harness and helmet. Then comes the techy part as we teach you how to tie your climbing knots and learn how to belay each other.
Once the basics are learnt the fun really begins as you scale the 30-40ft rocks! You’ll learn about correct climbing technique and experience some great sandstone climbs at Harrison's rocks.
As the day progresses we'll introduce more climbing techniques and skills, and challenge you on a range of different climbs from slab climbs, vertical climbs, crack climbs and even overhanging climbs!
Skills Covered
- Safety awareness
- Knots
- Belaying
- Bouldering
- Climbing techniques
- Hand and foot techniques
- Body positions
- Route grades
- Climbing etiquette
- Climbing history
Locations
Climbing sessions are run at Harrison's Rocks on the Sussex and Kent boarder
Equipment
Equipment supplied
All rock climbing and safety equipment is supplied including:
- Ropes
- Harness
- Helmet
- Rock boots
- Belaying device and karabiners
Equipment needed
For all outdoor climbing courses you must have extra warm clothes and waterproofs, we will provide you with a full kit list upon booking.
- Comfortable clothing, suitable for the time of year*
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Trainers**
- Rucksack
- Packed lunch and plenty of water
- Medication / Tablets / Inhaler etc.
The above list is just a guide and appropriate clothing for the time of year should be worn.
*Clothing should comprise of several layers to trap the warmth. Please do not wear denim as it restricts movement, is cold when wet and is slow to dry.
**Please wear soft-soled shoes such as trainers; you are not permitted to wear walking boots etc. as these damage the rocks. Please remember that the rocks are a short distance from the car park so it's important to put all of your kit in a suitable size rucksack, leaving space for climbing equipment.
Equipment shop
Take a look at our online shop for any equipment you might want for your outdoor adventures. We stock a variety of equipment and can give expert advice if you have any queries. Choose to collect your order on a course (free of charge) and your instructor will have it ready and waiting for you when you arrive.
Faqs
Introduction to Rock Climbing - Frequently Asked Questions
About the Event
What is the Introduction to Rock Climbing course?
It’s a full-day beginner’s rock climbing course at Harrison’s Rocks on the Sussex/Kent border. We’ll cover everything you need to start climbing outdoors: how to tie onto the rope, belay your climbing partner safely, basic technique and a little of the history of the sport. With a full day on the rocks, we can build up the difficulty of your routes gradually as your confidence grows.
Who is this course for?
It’s ideal for first-time climbers as well as anyone who has tried climbing or bouldering indoors and wants to make the jump to real rock. It’s also a natural step up from our Rock Climbing Experience if you’ve already covered the basics and want a longer day to put them into practice.
How long should I allow?
A full day – please allow around 7 to 8 hours from arrival to finish.
What can I do after this course?
Once you’ve got some outdoor experience under your belt, you can join our monthly Climbing Club at the same venue, or progress on to our Improver Climbing Courses to refine your technique, body positioning and movement.
Logistics
Where does it take place?
Harrison’s Rocks, Birchden Wood, Groombridge TN3 9NH (what3words: ///overdone.masterful.fattest). The meeting point is the car park.
How do I get there by train?
Eridge station is approximately 1 mile away – a taxi can be pre-booked to the car park. Tunbridge Wells is approximately 4 miles away and also has taxis available.
Can I share a lift with the instructor?
Unfortunately not. Vehicle insurance doesn’t cover this, so customers organise their own transport, either independently or amongst the group.
Kit & Equipment
What equipment is provided?
All technical climbing and safety equipment is included: ropes, harness, helmet, rock boots, belay device and karabiners.
What should I wear and bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the time of year, a waterproof jacket and trousers, trainers, a rucksack, snacks and plenty of water, plus any personal medication, tablets or inhaler. We’ll send a full kit list before the event.
Can I bring my own climbing shoes?
Yes – you’re welcome to bring your own for maximum comfort.
Can I bring my own harness?
Yes, provided it’s in good condition and within the manufacturer’s lifespan. Please show it to your instructor on the day, who’ll make the final call on whether it’s suitable.
Do I have to wear a helmet?
Helmets must be worn during the morning session. After the morning briefing, adult participants on this full-day course can choose to remove their helmet at their own risk, once they understand the hazards involved (rock fall, dropped equipment, slips during belaying, etc.). Under-18s are never permitted to climb or belay without a helmet.
Spectators
Can friends and family come and watch?
Yes. Harrison’s Rocks is a public place and a beautiful spot for a wander – spectators are very welcome.
Can I bring my dog?
Dogs are welcome at Harrison’s Rocks provided someone who isn’t on the course is responsible for looking after them. Dogs must be kept on a lead and any mess picked up.
Weather Conditions
What happens if the weather is bad?
We monitor the forecast continuously in the lead-up to every event. Because sandstone is sensitive to wet weather and forecasts can change daily, a final decision may not be possible until the day before – occasionally on the day itself. Adverse conditions may force us to cancel, postpone or change the venue.
Could the location change?
Yes. After persistent wet weather, Harrison’s Rocks may not be safe to climb on, so the course may be moved to Bowles Rocks (around 10 minutes’ drive away). We’ll let you know in advance if a change is needed.
