If you're unsure about whether to take your climbing from the indoor wall to real rock, this guide will help you understand what our Real Rock climbing day involves.
Our top rope days take place at two fantastic outdoor venues: Hobson Moor and Troy Quarry. Both are former quarries with a good range of climbs suitable for club members of all levels. Hobson Moor is a short 5-minute walk from the meeting point, while Troy Quarry is a slightly longer 15–20 minute walk.
Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the key details: where to meet, what to bring, and what to expect. Our qualified instructors will arrive early to greet you, hand out any shared kit, and lead the short walk to the climbing area.
At the climbing site, the instructor will point out the climbing zones and set a safety area where you’ll wait while they rig the top ropes—though they may have already done this before your arrival. While you wait, you can begin kitting up and warming up.
The session will feel similar to climbing at an indoor wall. You’ll be divided into belay teams, pick your routes, and take turns climbing and belaying. The big difference is that outdoor holds aren't colour-coded, so you’ll need to identify and use natural features on the rock. After reaching the top—or your highest point—you’ll be safely lowered down, just like at the gym.
You’ll usually have time to try between 3 and 8 climbs, depending on the venue, the pace of the group, and the difficulty of the routes. Our instructors will be on hand throughout to offer technique tips and help you make the most of your day.
If it’s a full-day session, we’ll take a lunch break, but regardless of the session length, you should bring water and snacks to stay fuelled and hydrated.
Due to licensing regulations, parents or guardians must stay on site. If you’re experienced in belaying, you’re welcome to help out under the instructor’s supervision—but this is optional. If you’re a climber, and it won’t interfere with the club members’ session, you might even get the chance to climb (subject to instructor approval). Otherwise, feel free to relax and enjoy the day—we recommend bringing a fold-up chair, layers to stay warm, or sun protection depending on the weather
Get ready for a Halloween like no other at Summit Up! On 31st October from 6pm, we’re cutting the lights and cranking up the music for our Lights Out Climbing Night.
Climbers Against Cancer are inviting young adults aged 16–30 who are in recovery after cancer treatment to take part in a new programme, Climbing Beyond Cancer, at Summit Up in Oldham.
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