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FAQs

Want to know more about common climbing terminology?
Check out our glossary of climbing terms.

Climbing

Under 18s

General

  • What are your bank holiday opening hours?

    On Bank Holidays we open from 10am until 7pm.

    However, we are closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New years Eve and New years Day.

  • I've booked a place on an instructed session, but I can't make it. Can I cancel?

    For basic skills courses, taster sessions and fun sessions, bookings are non-refundable.

    For private tuition, parties, corporate or youth and school group bookings, cancellations made with less than 2 weeks notice incur a charge of 50% of the session fee; sessions cancelled or changed with less than 1 week's notice must be paid for in full.

  • What should I wear for climbing?

    We recommend that you wear comfortable, casual clothing that will not restrict movement. Trousers and a T-shirt would be fine, although the climbing area is not heated, so please have suitable warm clothing in cold weather.

    Climbing shoes can be hired from reception if you do not have your own. Children should wear clean trainers or plimsolls if they do not have their own climbing shoes.

    Rings should be removed prior to climbing as they can cause injury to fingers. We also advise that you do not wear bracelets or watches as these can get damaged. Long hair should be tied back.

  • How accessible is climbing at The Reach?

    Climbing at The Reach is accessible to a very wide range of people. We actively encourage para climbers, people with visual or hearing impairment, those with Special Educational Needs and people of all shapes, sizes and ages to climb with us.

    See our accessibility page for more details.

  • Is there somewhere to park my car or bike?

    On the estate there is a designated car parking area, accessed by turning right just inside the front gates. Parking there is free, but spaces cannot be guaranteed.

    There is a bike lock-up area inside the big roller doors to the right of the reception. If you forget you bike lock, we may be able to lend you one for your visit. Please ask at reception whether one is available.

    Please see our Find Us page for more details on getting to The Reach.

  • Do you have lockers?

    Yes, we have lots of locker space available for storing all your valuables. Just bring a £1 coin to release the key (you get your £1 back when you return the key). We also sell reusable locker tokens which you can use instead of a coin.

    We have a few extra large lockers - but cannot guarantee availability. Please ask at reception if needed.

  • What ages can use The Reach?

    Climbing is suitable for all ages. We've had participants under 2, as well as those over 90.

    In general most adult courses have a minimum age of 14 years. Under 18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, and those under 16 will need a participating adult or guardian on the course with them.

    Please review our Courses page for age criteria.

    Experienced adult climbers can supervise up to 2 guests of any age.

    If your child is an experienced climber aged 14+ they can climb without supervision after passing a prebooked assessment.

    See all our options for Kids & Families.

    Under 18s cannot use the cafe (unless under the signed supervision of an adult member) or the training room, and cannot supervise others.

  • Are there weight restrictions?

    There are no weight restrictions for bouldering and roped climbing. Ground anchors are provided to assist lighter belayers with heavier climbers.

    See the ground anchors FAQ for more information.

    The auto belay devices have a maximum user weight of 150kg / 330lbs / 23st.

  • Can I bring my dog?

    No. For safety reasons, customers cannot bring animals into the centre.

  • Can I buy a gift voucher?

    Indeed you can!

    Treat someone special with the gift of climbing. Great for Christmas, birthdays, or any other reason. You can match the cost of a course, or any amount you choose.

    See our Gift Card page for more details and to purchase a card.

  • Do I need to be a climber in order to use the cafe?

    No, you do not. Anyone over 18 may use the cafe, though non-climbers must keep within the marked areas within the centre to remain out of the fall zones of the climbing walls.

    Under 18s can only be in the cafe under the supervision of a registered member.