The Best Places To Climb In The UK

Climbing in the South West

The South West offers an extensive and varied range of climbing opportunities. For sea-cliff climbing, Devon and Cornwall are particularly popular. Granite crags can be found in Sennen and Bosigran. The Culm coast is a hot spot for experienced sea cliff climbers, as is Berry Head and its limestone cliff faces. It is important to note that most sea cliffs come into best condition from March until around late September.

Climbing in the Lake District

The Lake District National Park in North West England is easily accessible. Among the top spots for crags are the valleys of Langdale, Borrowdale, and Buttermere. The high-mountain routes in this area can be reached in under an hour’s walk from the road. These include Scafell, Great Gable, and Bowfell.

Climbing in the Peak District

The Peak District is considered by many UK climbers as the best spot in England. It is certainly the most popular. Close to the cities of Manchester and Sheffield, the Peak District is very easy to get to and offers endless accommodation opportunities. This area offers climbs and challenges for all levels of experience, with more than 10,000 recorded climbs to be found in guidebooks.

Climbing in North Wales

North Wales again offers a wide-range of climbs, all within a short distance of one another. Snowdonia National Park is full-to-the-brim with climbing centres and clubs. In the northwest corner of Holy Island just off Anglesey is the world-famous sea cliff, Gogarth. Access to this area is restricted during the seabird nesting season.

Climbing in Scotland

Scotland offers less crowded climbs compared to many other parts of the UK. Some of the climbing highlights here include Creag and Dubh Loch high in the Cairngorms, which can be reached on foot in around two hours. There are a huge number of youth hostels and low budget accommodation near to some of the best climbing sites.