Getting started (adults) | boulderbrighton.com

GETTING STARTED

This page is for adults - for getting youth and families started, head to www.boulderbrighton.com/getting-started-youth

New visitors welcome!

Bouldering is really easy to get into – you don’t need specialist knowledge to get started, you don't need previous climbing experience, and the only essential kit you'll need is a pair of climbing shoes (these are available to hire at the centre).

Here are three easy steps to get you going:

1/ Register Online

However you want to get going, you’ll need to complete our registration process before you start. Each registration lasts for 2 years. Register online here.

2/ Book a First Time Climb...

Anyone new to the sport, or visiting us for the first time, should book one of our First Time Climb sessions. It gives you everything you need to know to start out at the centre, and allows you to boulder independently in the future. You get a short induction in a small group with a member of staff to talk you through the essentials, then time to climb independently for the rest of the session. Climbing shoe hire is included. It's the same price as a standard entry with shoes, or sometimes even cheaper. Book online below:

3/ ...or get an experienced friend to bring you along

If you have a friend who's an experienced climber at Boulder Brighton, you can get them to bring you along to show you how it all works. You'll still need to register before you come, and you'll get a safety briefing from staff at the front desk. Currently all sessions need to be booked in advance, so whether you're getting a friend to bring you or you're booking a First Time Climb session, you'll need to head to our booking page to get that booked ahead of time.

Experienced climbers at Boulder Brighton can bring up to 2 novice climbers with them on a given day. Pre-book your session to make sure there's space for you when you arrive (we regularly sell out at peak times).

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to know how to use a rope and harness?

No, there are no ropes and harnesses involved in bouldering, so this isn’t necessary. Your climb is protected by safety matting instead, and staying safe involves common sense rather than any technical knowledge. See our 4 minute induction video for a quick overview of how it all works:


Do I need to book?

All sessions involving supervised children must be pre-booked as spaces are very limited. For adults, it's highly recommended to pre-book as we have limited spaces available and these regularly sell out, particularly at peak times. Head to our booking page to get booked in.

What should I wear?

You don’t need to wear anything special – just comfortable, non-restrictive clothing that allows you to move your arms and legs about freely. Think gym kit, or shorts/leggings/comfy jeans and a t-shirt.

Do I need to hire climbing shoes?

You'll need to wear climbing shoes to climb at the centre. These are snug-fitting, rubber coated, and allow you to get purchase on small footholds, making climbing much easier. They should be snug, but not painful - if your feet have lots of space to move around inside them, they won't work particularly well. However, if you're in pain, you won't have any fun - so try a size up! Climbing shoes can be hired at reception if needed, and are included in our First Time Climb sessions.

Can I climb barefoot?

No, please wear shoes when you climb, for hygiene and safety reasons.

Can I come on my own?

Yes! You don’t need a climbing partner for bouldering – though it’s a very social sport so you’re bound to end up talking to other climbers.