Southern sandstone climbing course. Learn about sandstone ethics and how to look after the southern sandstone crags. This course could also be used by climbers as a refresher who have climbed outdoors before Stone Farm Rocks Stone Farm Rocks is one of the more popular sandstone sites. We have adapted the information and rules below from the BMC’s guide on the Southern Sandstone. The Southern Sandstone Leaders Award Bowles hosts the Southern Sandstone Award, a climbing instructor award that is recognised by the main outdoor providers in the South East and which covers all the main outcrops including Bowles, Harrisons, Eridge and Stone Farm. The rocks sit in an open setting which is a sun trap during the summertime. Oct 4, 2017 · I started climbing on the Southern Sandstone almost twenty years ago and in that time I have seen guidebooks undergo something of a revolution. 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. The Outcrop is set atop a hillside and spans 200 metres in length. This guide is presented in in the traditional climbers club layout with detailed route descriptions and maps but a limited number of topos to assist with route locations. Bob Moulton Published Climbers' Club (2008) ISBN 9780901601803 Review The latest version of the guide to climbing in the South East of England. This delicate nature brings great responsibility to climbers to ensure it is not damaged or eroded. Was it any good? Is the sandstone any good anyway? Lets find out! Southern Sandstone is the name given to the outcrops of sandstone formed millions of years ago on the borders of Kent and East Sussex. Inside climbing and bouldering centre in Tunbridge Wells, Canterbury and Chatham in Kent. Found primarily in Kent and East Sussex, this sandstone is renowned for its delicate, often friable nature, requiring climbers to adopt a different technique compared to other rock types. Outdoor Top-rope Climbing: Introduction to Southern Sandstone - £90 pp: based at Harrisons Rocks (near Tunbridge Wells) this full-day course will give you all the techniques and skills to climb on southern sandstone, as well as safety knowledge to climb independently in the future. Harrison's is the most popular southern sandstone crag with a great selection of climbs in a quiet woodland setting in East Sussex. Located on the west brow of Lookout Mountain in the Chickamauga National Battlefield Park, Sunset is considered the cradle of the Chattanooga climbing scene. Jan 25, 2025 · In the 1970s the Welzenbach system as used on southern sandstone and for multipitch climbs made its way into single-pitch climbing for a time, though quickly entered a period of restructuring as the grade adopted a new identity to measure the single hardest move whilst working only alongside the British adjective grading system. Usually in a forested area. It's easy to get going quickly on southern sandstone with a guiding hand from one of our experienced and professional instructors. The ground gets damp and muddy especially after rainfall. Southern Sandstone is situated in the South East of England on the borders of Kent and East Sussex where outcrops of sandstone have formed over millions of years. High Rocks is close to Tunbridge Wells and has a large carpark, a bar-restaurant and it is also used as a wedding venue. In this course, you’ll learn how to set your own ‘bottom ropes’ (often known as top ropes), how to select a climb using guidebooks, what rock climbing equipment you’ll need (including how to look after and maintain it), how to safely asses anchor points, and how to rig your own climbs. You will be shimmying up some tricky routes in no time. Unfortunately due to shading from trees, not much sunlight and a secluded location, they are rarely in condition. A major advantage of climbing as a club on sandstone, is that you can climb more routes as people often mix-in and swap ropes on ‘club nights’. Over the years, the Hatt Adventures team has grown to a group of people who share the love of the outdoors and this is Eridge Green Rocks Climbing on the Southern Sandstone Eridge Green Rocks Eridge Green Rocks are set in semi woodland. [1] Mar 24, 2025 · Southern Sandstone Author Mike Vetterlein and Robin Mazinke. Fully revised with many topos and colour action photos as well as a 'first ascents' list. What Climbers Club say: The visual impact is impressive from the start with a new wrap-around cover photo, the i Climbing in Chattanooga is all about scenic landscapes, world-class bouldering, and gymnastics-style rope climbing—within and just outside the city limits. Bassett’s Farm Rocks is in a peaceful, relaxed location surrounded by fields and is a wonderful day out for those wanting to get away from it all. As climbing on the Sandstone is top-roping or soloing/bouldering, you don’t need to bring much kit. Harrison’s is one of the largest and most popular of the Southern Sandstone climbing areas and provides a variety of climbs at different grades. Southern Sandstone Leader Award - 2-Day Training Course Acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to safely run climbing and bouldering sessions on the Sandstone rocks of Sussex and Kent. Due to the rock having only a thin outer layer, the rock is very fragile and can only be soloed or top-roped. Pre-ASSESSMENT Before attending an assessment you must have: Shared your D-Log with the Assessor. Southern Sandstone Climbs (SSC) is a non profit 'website' aimed at the transmission and communication of information related to climbing on Southern Sandstone and the environmental issues surrounding access and conservation. As of Autumn 2021 the BMC have changed their guidance for setting up on Southern Sandstone. It offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for climbing. It offers some superb top-rope climbing and bouldering on beautiful sandstone formations. Respect the rock – refrain from hanging on the rope practising moves as this causes unnecessary wear to the top of the crag by weighting and unweighting the belay rope. g if it's been three days without rain Southern Sandstone is the name given to the outcrops of sandstone formed millions of years ago on the borders of Kent and East Sussex. Harrison's Rocks Southern Sandstone Beautiful and unique rock architecture which provides challenging climbing across the grades is the stand out feature of this incredibly popular South East crag. Jan 3, 2024 · About US Climbing Courses is owned and operated by Hatt Adventures, which stands as one of the prominent outdoor adventure providers in the South East. I'm aware that sandstone shouldn't be climbed if wet but unsure how to determine when conditions are good, is it enough to just check weather reports for a good period where it hasn't rained? e. Jul 18, 2019 · As a follow up to our rock climbing courses, we have created this post to remind people of some of the skills taught on the course. There are some simple and important rules to be followed known as the Southern Maidstone Mountaineering Club was formed in 1976. Stone Farm Rocks Climbing on the Southern Sandstone Stone Farm Rocks Stone Farm Rocks is one of the more popular sandstone sites. Bowles Rocks are steeped in history and offer high-quality sandstone. Before climbing As with all southern sandstone, leader placed protection cannot be used because of the soft nature of the rock and whilst this might be a little unusual for us trad obsessed Brits, you will quickly get into the top-roping zone and come to appreciate the fine climbing on offer. Southern Sandstone Climbing: Set up as a non-profit hub for Southern Sandstone climbing information, this is a great resource to better understand the feel and the ethic of the area. Other editions of this guidebook Southern Sandstone Climbers' Club (1989) The rock-climbing store has over 25 years experience of southern sandstone climbing providing quality equipment and courses. kids, adults and groups are welcome. There are some simple and important rules to be followed known as the Southern Southern Sandstone Leader Award - 1-Day Training Course This 1 day fast track training course is designed for indoors climbers to acquire the necessary expertise to run climbing and bouldering sessions on the Sandstone rocks of Sussex and Kent, where as our 2 day training course caters for those with no previous experience in leading or coaching climbing. Nov 21, 2020 · This course is designed for indoor climbers who would like to venture into the world of rock climbing in the great outdoors. In the new Climbers' Club house style. Whether you’re an experienced outdoor instructor, sports coach or health and fitness professional this is the place to start. It is probably the best known Southern Sandstone crag and is popular with climbers and walkers alike. Ed. This course could also be used by climbers as a refresher who have climbed outdoors before (not necessarily on sandstone) and who need an update. Harrison's Rocks has been owned by the British Mountaineering Council since 2009, and is managed by a local group of volunteers known as the Harrison's Rocks Management Group. Ever since 2021, a new method of setting up the top rope on the bolted anchors at Southern Sandstone crags has changed. This Climber's Club Guide for the Southern Sandstone covers popular climbing crags like Harrison's Rocks, High Rocks and Bowles Rocks. Increase your rock climbing independence in Sussex and Kent with our Southern Sandstone Ropework Course. While some of the skills taught on this course are unique to sandstone, most will be valid for all other other climbing environments and will be invaluable to your overall journey as a climber. What? Climbing at the Southern Sandstone is a sociable and fun day out, there’s something here for everyone from beginners to experienced climbers alike, and the style of climbing is quite unique compared to many other venues. Members tend to meet regularly at Climbing Walls, usually either the Climbing Experience in Maidstone or The Reach in Woolwich. Sep 18, 2008 · Im moving to east Sussex soon, does any one know of any climbing clubs down that way? Looking to meet people and find partners for southern sandstone and adventures further afield! Southern Sandstone is the name given to the outcrops of sandstone formed millions of years ago on the borders of Kent and East Sussex. Best climbed in the summer and autumn. This information is best used in conjunction with one of our courses and not as a stand alone guide. Back then the 1996 Climbers Club (CC) guide was the only available guide to the area, with hand drawn topos and, as was common at the time, a limited number of photographs from which to draw inspiration. Bring the burl if you want to enjoy this arena of steep sandstone. Climbing is exclusively protected by means of a "top rope". Activities of the club vary from indoor bouldering, top-roping on the local sandstone crags to sport and traditional (trad) climbing on mountain crags and sea cliffs all over the UK and abroad. It is popular with all ages and provides a collection of interesting rocks to explore. Over the years, members Southern Sandstone is the name given to the outcrops of sandstone formed millions of years ago on the borders of Kent and East Sussex. Mar 14, 2024 · 2. Southern Sandstone Code We are passionate about ensuring the rocks use for future generations and paramount to this is the education of climbers visiting the Sandstone about the fragile nature of the rocks. She also took great photos! Highly recommend to anyone at any level! Bassett’s Farm Rocks Climbing on the Southern Sandstone Bassett’s Farm Rocks The outcrop consists of a steep smooth central wall and some buttresses on either side. Jan 18, 2020 · I'm new to climbing outdoors and want to get started as soon as possible this year. Jun 24, 2015 · Here is a link to the BMC – Southern Sandstone Code of Practice – LINK HERE – a must read before climbing in this climbing area. Feb 25, 2022 · This course is designed for indoor climbers who would like to venture into the world of rock climbing in the great outdoors. If you need any kit you can either order it online, email us for it to be delivered on the day of your course, or you can pop in and have a look (by arrangement). Based in London so Southern Sandstone seems to be the most easily accessible. ROCK CLIMBING COURSES FOR ADULTS ON SOUTHERN SANDSTONE A SAFE AND FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT FOR ADULTS TO LEARN CLIMBING We offer the highest quality outdoor climbing courses for all ages in the South East. East Sussex is one of your best bets for getting climbing on real rock outside of London, there is an abundance of sandstone slabs close to Royal Tunbridge Wells and East Grinstead. Start your adventure on southern sandstone and book your course today. The outcrops in the Weald of Kent are the rock climbing crags closest to London and are probably the most heavily climbed in the UK. This is the same as at all Southern Sandstone outcrops What we say: Known locally as the bible for climbing on the Southern Sandstone, the climbers guide is a information packed booked with not all the climbs, history and extra info that makes for a great read. A guide to Southern Sandstone and the Sea Cliffs of the South- East published by the Climbers Club. Happy Valley Rocks Climbing on the Southern Sandstone Happy Valley Rocks Happy Valley Rocks are a quiet crag, and good for a spot of low to mid-grade bouldering on a sunny day. Due to being on top of a hill and little vegetation sections of the crag are fast drying The sandstone of southeast England is a close relation to the rock found in Fontainebleau, but even softer. Southern Sandstone outcrops are a massive part of the UK climbing scene, located in areas of natural beauty they provide interesting, fun and challenging climbs for people of all abilities. Open for all age groups and events. Jan 25, 2025 · Climbing Southern Sandstone rock is a delicate art and it is the duty of each climber to check access information using the BMC RAD. Southern Sandstone in the South East of England offers some of the country’s most unique and challenging climbing experiences. The sandstone of southeast England is a close relation to the rock found in Fontainebleau, but even softer. Eridge Green offers a great spot for some morning climbing. Depending on your grade, Harrisons or Bowles for easier stuff and High Rocks for harder. It was cleared again in February 2014 and lines were cleaned, undergrowth removed and drainage created to remove build up of water in the ground below. Overlooking Weirwood Reservoir and Ashdown Forest makes it the perfect location on a sunny day. The closest climbing to London city. Most of the routes have bolts in place for setting up top ropes, but still bring long slings and static rope with you. High Rocks, (like other Southern Sandstone crags) is a finite resource, not a climbing wall – do not treat it like one. Overlooking Weirwood Reservoir and Ashdown Forest makes it the perfect location on a sunny This 1 day fast track training course is designed for indoors climbers to acquire the necessary expertise to run climbing and bouldering sessions on the Sandstone rocks of Sussex and Kent, where as our 2 day training course caters for those with no previous experience in leading or coaching climbing. The 1 Day SSLA training course is only Our History We have been offering rock climbing courses on southern sandstone and at other locations around the UK as well as in France since 2006. Jul 18, 2021 · This course is designed for indoor climbers who would like to venture into the world of rock climbing in the great outdoors. High Rocks is the best for mid to higher grade climbing and the climbs are generally longer and more sustained than those at other outcrops. Harrison's Rocks is situated in a Jul 24, 2023 · This course is designed for indoor climbers who would like to venture into the world of rock climbing in the great outdoors. Visit SSLA page to find out In this course, we’ll teach you everything you need to know to get started on your rock climbing journey. The latest version of the guide to climbing in the South East of England. Bowles Rocks Climbing on the Southern Sandstone Bowels Rocks Bowles rocks are owned by Bowles Outdoor Centre who also offer a dry ski slope. Jan 29, 2021 · People have been working Southern Sandstone routes in the same way that French sports climbers started working limestone since at least the early 1960s (and almost certainly before that). The Southern Sandstone Award includes a training section a consolidation period and an assessment. Mar 1, 2025 · One off, weekend, and six week courses introducing Rock Climbing for all ages. Despite rock which is somewhat poor in quality Happy Valley Rocks have an appeal and a surprisingly engaging atmosphere. Personal experience of climbing on at least 3 Southern Sandstone is the name given to the outcrops of sandstone formed millions of years ago on the borders of Kent and East Sussex. We only employ the highest quality and most experienced, friendly instructors, and guarantee you a quality climbing experience. 5 hour from London. Access information has been included in the app via clicking on both information icons but can always change, so never assume. That is why there were so many world-class technical standard routes on Southern Sandstone. Started the lesson as a very nervous novice and left delighted with confidence! A fantastic lesson that was pitched perfectly to my skills. Southern Sandstone Leader Award Assessment Learn to teach other rock climbing skills on the outdoor crags of Sussex and Kent. Join a qualified and experienced instructor for a professional, safe and enjoyable day out. Eridge is less popular than sites like Harrisons or High Rocks but still has a lot on offer. Southern Sandstone Code Learn about the Southern Sandstone code of practice Southern Sandstone Code We are passionate about ensuring the rocks use for future generations and paramount to this is the education of climbers visiting the Sandstone about the fragile nature of the rocks. [1] There are approximately four hundred short climbs at Harrison's Rocks, ranging widely in difficulty. Our local crags Southern Sandstone in the South East of England offers some of the country’s most unique and challenging climbing experiences. Around 700m long and never higher than 12m, it is the most popular of the Southern Sandstone outcrops, offering over 380 climbs from 2a to 6c. Sunset Rock If any crag can be considered the “crown jewel” of southern sandstone climbing, it would be Sunset Rock. The Southern Sandstone climbing area is situated in the Southeast of England on the borders of Kent and East Sussex. Two of the crags are owned by the BMC, Harrison’s Rocks and Stone Farm Rocks. If you’ve moved to the area and already climb, get in touch! Jun 10, 2021 · Southern Sandstone is a collection of crags very popular with climbers living in the London and South East area located in the Central Weald on the borders of Kent and East Sussex. Sandstone is brilliant for technical / strength training but bugger all use for leading practice (its not allowed) or for long routes (its all short). Toad Rocks Climbing on the Southern Sandstone Toad Rocks Climbing Area Toad Rocks are set in a large sandy area next door to the Toad Rock Retreat Pub. Due to being on top of a hill and little vegetation sections of the crag are fast drying Southern Sandstone climbing course Who is this course for? This course will suit climbers who have been climbing for at least 6 months on a regular basis in an indoor environment. Jul 26, 2023 · This course is designed for indoor climbers who would like to venture into the world of rock climbing in the great outdoors. Read on to make sure you're following the latest method. Southern Sandstone is a local name for the Ardingly Sandstone of southeast England, a soft sandstone of Cretaceous age separating the Tunbridge Wells Sands from the overlying Grinstead Clay. It was where most of the leading sandstone route activists first cut their teeth and pushed the standards of Kit – where possible please bring your own equipment, although the club has some equipment available which can be requested here. Southern Sandstone Leaders Award – Training (2 Days) 2 Day Climbing Course to Instruct on the Sandstone Southern Sandstone Leader Award – 2-Day Training Course Acquire the necessary skills and knowledge to safely run climbing and bouldering sessions on the Sandstone rocks of Sussex and Kent. The intricacy of movement its routes require and stunning woodland setting transport you into another world and it’s easy to imagine you’re a character in a folk tale long ago as you wander The Sandstone Volunteers Group cleared the crag in 2003 and made it more open. Sep 20, 2020 · As with all southern sandstone, leader placed protection cannot be used because of the soft nature of the rock and whilst this might be a little unusual for us trad obsessed Brits, you will quickly get into the top-roping zone and come to appreciate the fine climbing on offer. Bulls Hollow is part of the Rusthall Common geological SSSI due to its rock formation and natural erosion features. Summary – The closest outdoor climbing area to London!! Sandstone Climbing on soft rock giving good bouldering, top and bottom roping and soloing. Southern Sandstone is the name given to the outcrops of sandstone formed millions of years ago on the borders of Kent and East Sussex. Oct 23, 2008 · Pete Robins and Rachael Barlow spend a few days on the Southern Sandstone, armed with the Climbers' Club guidebook. Climber_Bill 17 Jun 2013 In reply to travlinmatt:. There is a Code of Practice for Jun 22, 2023 · This course is designed for indoor climbers who would like to venture into the world of rock climbing in the great outdoors. Minimum group size: 2 Southern Sandstone is the name given to the outcrops of sandstone formed millions of years ago on the borders of Kent and East Sussex. (This is known as the 'Objective Statement') The 'website' was founded in May 2013 in response to a growing concern regarding the lack of up to date online information on Jun 10, 2022 · Southern sandstone by Daniells, Tim Publication date 1981 Topics Rock climbing -- England, Southeastern, Rock climbing, South-east England Sandstone regions Rock climbing - Manuals Publisher [London] : Climbers' Club, with financial assistance from the British Mountaineering Council Collection inlibrary; printdisabled; internetarchivebooks Southern Sandstone is the name given to the outcrops of sandstone formed millions of years ago on the borders of Kent and East Sussex. The nature of the rock means that all routes are climbed on top-rope (except the bouldering) so they’re very approachable. Climbing Gear We operate a small online shop that caters for southern sandstone climbing. Specialists in climbing gear each product has been used and approved by the team, high standards and top quality at great prices. Personal experience of climbing on at least Southern Sandstone is the name given to the outcrops of sandstone formed millions of years ago on the borders of Kent and East Sussex. Whether you're an experienced outdoor instructor, sports coach or health and fitness professional this is the place to start. Lead climbing is prohibited and placing trad gear would easily rip out and damage the rock. Only top-rope and solo climbing is allowed since any lead climbing gear would damage the rock too much. Sarah pushed me with expert guidance. This course is designed for indoor climbers who would like to venture into the world of rock climbing in the great outdoors. Stone Farm Rocks Stone Farm Rocks is one of the more popular sandstone sites. Apr 5, 2025 · Please be aware that chalk use at Eridge rocks is banned and will result in the loss of climbing access to the crag - one of the larger Southern Sandstone crags). All of which on a good day is only an 1. Southern Sandstone is an incredible but very fragile rock that we all need to help look after and protect from damage. Harrison's Rocks are one of the most popular sandstone crags and are approximately one mile south of the village of Groombridge in the county of East Sussex. Bulls Hollow Rocks Climbing on the Southern Sandstone Bulls Hollow Rocks The rocks lie in a hollow and are North West facing. Jan 10, 2017 · In 1980, spurred on by the 1977 book Climb!, which detailed the Colorado free-climbing scene, and having realized that this Southern sandstone was almost certainly on par, Robinson published his first guide, a then-comprehensive list of Chattanooga climbing. But for the hardcore, the tougher routes Increase your rock climbing independence in Sussex and Kent with our Southern Sandstone Ropework Course. There are an extensive amount of climbs at Harrison’s ranging in style and grade. Established in 2005 by owner and Director Tom Hatt whose unmatched passion from the outdoors fuels the cogs of this company. lgalip elu nta ptqsv tsu wtw lwxeq tceqg vaotn pxfaif