Southern sandstone climbing course. A comprehensive guide featuring full-colour photo-topos covering routes and bouldering on Southern Sandstone. It has clearly shown topos making it easy to find the routes at the crag and get climbing. 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. Over the years, the Hatt Adventures team has grown to a group of people who share the love of the outdoors and this is High Rocks, (like other Southern Sandstone crags) is a finite resource, not a climbing wall – do not treat it like one. See full list on ukboulder. In her free time, she directs climbing documentaries and coalition fundraisers through her media brand, Steep South. Not far from Tunbridge Wells, their is easy to access and only a 45 minute drive from London or Brighton. 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. 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. Eridge Green Rocks Climbing on the Southern Sandstone Eridge Green Rocks Eridge Green Rocks are set in semi woodland. Southern Sandstone Author Mike Vetterlein and Robin Mazinke. 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). Usually in a forested area. Located on the west brow of Lookout Mountain in the Chickamauga National Battlefield Park, Sunset is considered the cradle of the Chattanooga climbing scene. Bob Moulton Climbing in Chattanooga is all about scenic landscapes, world-class bouldering, and gymnastics-style rope climbing—within and just outside the city limits. Ed. Nov 22, 2021 · If you are thinking about heading out on the Southern Sandstone then there are a few things that you will need to be aware of before your visit. Oct 18, 2023 · For instance, one commenter asked whether Waller’s history as a southerner, climbing on southern sandstone, had better prepared him to excel on Red Rock sandstone than someone from Colorado. There are an extensive amount of climbs at Harrison’s ranging in style and grade. Before climbing at the crags, please make sure you read and follow the Southern Sandstone Code of Practice which tells you everything you need to know to minimise your impact on the rock whilst climbing. 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. Unfortunately due to shading from trees, not much sunlight and a secluded location, they are rarely in condition. Climbing is exclusively protected by means of a "top rope". Due to the rock having only a thin outer layer, the rock is very fragile and can only be soloed or top-roped. Inside climbing and bouldering centre in Tunbridge Wells, Canterbury and Chatham in Kent. The rocks are well-equipped with bolts for top-roping and as with all southern sandstone crags the rock is very soft meaning leader placed gear cannot be used here as it will damage the rock. 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. It was originally set up as the Single Pitch Award did not cover all the elements of leadership and supervision required for teaching the the Southern Sandstone of Kent and Sussex. Open for all age groups and events. [1] Maidstone Mountaineering Club was formed in 1976. Whether you're an experienced outdoor instructor, sports coach or health and fitness professional this is the place to start. Read on to make sure you're following the latest method. Bring the burl if you want to enjoy this arena of steep sandstone. The 1 Day SSLA training course is only 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. You’ll experience climbing on sandstone in a picturesque setting surrounded by beautiful woodland. 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). Nov 25, 2020 · This Sussex rock climbing course takes place at Harrisons rocks which is part of the southern sandstone crags in Sussex and Kent. Lead climbing is prohibited and placing trad gear would easily rip out and damage the rock. Personal experience of climbing on at least 3 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. The local club'll be out in force today at Harrison's, "chimney" climbing in boiler suits. Minimum group size: 2 Bespoke UK trips - £160 pp: either on Peak gritstone or Portland limestone, these Ever since 2021, a new method of setting up the top rope on the bolted anchors at Southern Sandstone crags has changed. There are some simple and important rules to be followed known as the Southern Oct 23, 2008 · Pete Robins and Rachael Barlow spend a few days on the Southern Sandstone, armed with the Climbers' Club guidebook. kids, adults and groups are welcome. 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. Touch the Rock’s ‘Sandstone Taster Day’ offers clients the opportunity to experience the South East’s unique southern sandstone. 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. It offers a peaceful and picturesque setting for climbing. 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). 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. Members tend to meet regularly at Climbing Walls, usually either the Climbing Experience in Maidstone or The Reach in Woolwich. Harrison's Rocks is situated in a 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’. 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. Before climbing 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. This delicate nature brings great responsibility to climbers to ensure it is not damaged or eroded. This local rock climbing award is a site specific award set up by a group of outdoor centres, rock climbing providers and climbing walls in the South East of England. 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. Eridge is less popular than sites like Harrisons or High Rocks but still has a lot on offer. The Southern Sandstone Award includes a training section a consolidation period and an assessment. 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 probably the best known Southern Sandstone crag and is popular with climbers and walkers alike. 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. 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. We have adapted the information and rules below from the BMC’s guide on the Southern Sandstone. This article gives a brief overview of the unique climbing rules that are important to know when heading out both in bouldering and rope climbing. g if it's been three days without rain Mar 23, 2023 · California The Cascades The Northeast Southern Sandstone Hueco Colorado Utah Desert Southwest Red Rock Humans have been exploring boulders in America for hundreds of years, going back to the Native Americans who lived in and around many of today’s bouldering areas. Using the familiar Rockfax style of big-topos, clear 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. Fast Shipping and the best prices! Jan 10, 2017 · His routes became notable for being aesthetically pleasing and mentally committing. 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. The term has been in use since at least the Sixteenth Century. The Outcrop is set atop a hillside and spans 200 metres in length. It is popular with all ages and provides a collection of interesting rocks to explore. Based on the Kent and Sussex border, we’re a stone’s throw from Tunbridge Wells and just a mile away from our exceptional southern sandstone rocks. 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. 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. Oct 22, 2022 · Elaine Elliott is a freelance copywriter with a soft spot for Southern sandstone. This course is designed for indoor climbers who would like to venture into the world of rock climbing in the great outdoors. Friction is good but sandy holds are to be expected. Have any sandstone news? Then let us know and we will The guide comprehensively covers all the popular areas including Harrison's Rocks, High Rocks and Bowles Rocks. Due to being on top of a hill and little vegetation sections of the crag are fast drying Southern Sandstone is the name given to the outcrops of sandstone formed millions of years ago on the borders of Kent and East Sussex. 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! The Southern Sandstone climbing area is situated in the Southeast of England on the borders of Kent and East Sussex. Eridge Green offers a great spot for some morning climbing. Southern Sandstone Skills Films Playlist The fragility of southern sandstone crags means that climbers need to take extra care to protect and preserve them for the future. Mar 23, 2025 · Gritstone refers to a particular coarse type of sandstone, so it is different from southern sandstone which anyway dates from a different geological period. The only acceptable styles of climbing are top roping using a well rigged . 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. 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. The only acceptable styles of climbing are top roping using a well rigged Jan 18, 2020 · I'm new to climbing outdoors and want to get started as soon as possible this year. Stone Farm Rocks Stone Farm Rocks is one of the more popular sandstone sites. 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. 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. Increase your rock climbing independence in Sussex and Kent with our Southern Sandstone Ropework Course. If you’ve moved to the area and already climb, get in touch! 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. The rocks are soft by nature and there is a specific code of practice laid out by the BMC that we follow to minimise damage to the crags. Southern Sandstone is an incredible but very fragile rock that we all need to help look after and protect from damage. As of Autumn 2021 the BMC have changed their guidance for setting up on Southern Sandstone. 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. It offers some superb top-rope climbing and bouldering on beautiful sandstone formations. What Climbers Club say: The visual impact is impressive from the start with a new wrap-around cover photo, the i Outdoor Top-rope Climbing: Introduction to Southern Sandstone - £130 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. Southern Sandstone Leader Award Assessment Learn to teach other rock climbing skills on the outdoor crags of Sussex and Kent. Considerations when climbing on sandstone The rock of the Southern Sandstone is a particularly soft type of sandstone so care must be taken when climbing. 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. Due to being on top of a hill and little vegetation sections of the crag are fast drying A guide to Southern Sandstone and the Sea Cliffs of the South- East published by the Climbers Club. Despite rock which is somewhat poor in quality Happy Valley Rocks have an appeal and a surprisingly engaging atmosphere. There is a Code of Practice for Southern Sandstone is the name given to the outcrops of sandstone formed millions of years ago on the borders of Kent and East Sussex. High Rocks is close to Tunbridge Wells and has a large carpark, a bar-restaurant and it is also used as a wedding venue. Established in 2005 by owner and Director Tom Hatt whose unmatched passion from the outdoors fuels the cogs of this company. Under the watchful eye of Rob, clients will be given an insight into its ‘delights and secrets’ at one of the sandstone’s major crags. There are often guidelines in the guidebooks for the area. Fully revised with many topos and colour action photos as well as a 'first ascents' list. Pre-ASSESSMENT Before attending an assessment you must have: Shared your D-Log with the Assessor. This is the same as at all Southern Sandstone outcrops Touch the Rock’s ‘Sandstone Taster Day’ offers clients the opportunity to experience the South East’s unique southern sandstone. Visit SSLA page to find out 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. Mar 14, 2024 · 2. That is why there were so many world-class technical standard routes on Southern Sandstone. 5 hour from London. 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 guide has the most up-to-date guide coverage of all routes and boulder specific problems found on the outcrops. This information is best used in conjunction with one of our courses and not as a stand alone guide. 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 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. Specialists in climbing gear each product has been used and approved by the team, high standards and top quality at great prices. There are balancing slab problems as well as steep face climbing and tricky aretes, making for a lot of variety of skills and styles of climbing needed to send at this spot. Bob Moulton Published Climbers' Club (2008) ISBN 9780901601803 Review The latest version of the guide to climbing in the South East of England. 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. The ground gets damp and muddy especially after rainfall. Our local crags Southern Sandstone in the South East of England offers some of the country’s most unique and challenging climbing experiences. We operate a small online shop that caters for southern sandstone climbing. Most of the routes have bolts in place for setting up top ropes, but still bring long slings and static rope with you. Jan 6, 2021 · Significant work was done by the British Mountaineering Council through videos and online literature, as well as members of the Harrison's Rocks Management Group and the Southern Sandstone Climbs team, supported by local climbers, key climbing walls and other individuals to help bring awareness to the code of practice and unfolding situation. 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. The Southern Sandstone - and the Sea Cliffs of South-East England guide covers popular areas including Harrison’s Rocks, High Rocks and Bowles Rocks, the Southern Sandstone and Sea Cliffs. Bulls Hollow is part of the Rusthall Common geological SSSI due to its rock formation and natural erosion features. Successful completion of this Award indicates that the Instructor has been assessed to the standards required by the Southern Sandstone Group for supervising groups climbing on the sandstone outcrops of south east England. Over the years, members The sandstone of southeast England is a close relation to the rock found in Fontainebleau, but even softer. This is another hard sandstone area so the rock should be given a couple of days to dry after rain. The sandstone of southeast England is a close relation to the rock found in Fontainebleau, but even softer. We're usually at High Rocks New Year's Day, due to the plethora of chimneys to squirm up there, but the new rate for non-season ticket holders has forced a change of venue. Based in London so Southern Sandstone seems to be the most easily accessible. This course could also be used by climbers as a refresher who have climbed outdoors before Southern Sandstone is the name given to the outcrops of sandstone formed millions of years ago on the borders of Kent and East Sussex. Southern Sandstone (2008) Climbers' Club By Mike Vetterlein and Robin Mazinke. 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 closest climbing to London city. Our series of short films shows some of the special skills and considerations needed when climbing on southern sandstone. Two of the crags are owned by the BMC, Harrison’s Rocks and Stone Farm Rocks. All of which on a good day is only an 1. In the new Climbers' Club house style. However, as I write The rock-climbing store has over 25 years experience of southern sandstone climbing providing quality equipment and courses. Jul 18, 2019 · The way of setting up top ropes at popular Southern Sandstone climbing areas like Harrisons Rocks and Bowles has recently changed, and now equalisation between two bolts is required. [1] There are approximately four hundred short climbs at Harrison's Rocks, ranging widely in difficulty. A central point where all southern sandstone information can be accessed. (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 Harrison’s Rocks are owned and managed by the BMC for the benefit of climbers and the general public for recreation on foot. On some of our courses, you can even choose where you would like to learn or train, but wherever you decide, we know you will be inspired by the spectacular views. 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. Mar 1, 2025 · This Group is for anyone wanting to climb on Southern Sandstone or further their skills on away trips to Dartmoor, Peak District, Portland, North Wales and Fontainebleau. There are some simple and important rules to be followed known as the Southern 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. Bulls Hollow Rocks Climbing on the Southern Sandstone Bulls Hollow Rocks The rocks lie in a hollow and are North West facing. com Jul 18, 2019 · Setting up climbs on Southern Sandstone 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. Book your course today and learn all about southern sandstone ethics. It was where most of the leading sandstone route activists first cut their teeth and pushed the standards of Jan 3, 2024 · For all of our courses and experiences, you can count on being surrounded by beautiful countryside in some of the UK’s most picturesque places. 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 This Climber's Club Guide for the Southern Sandstone covers popular climbing crags like Harrison's Rocks, High Rocks and Bowles Rocks. Whether you’re an experienced outdoor instructor, sports coach or health and fitness professional this is the place to start. Overlooking Weirwood Reservoir and Ashdown Forest makes it the perfect location on a sunny day. The Sandstone Volunteers Group cleared the crag in 2003 and made it more open. The approach is an easy 20-minute trek and the rock dries quickly. In the 1950s and ‘60s, John Gill began taking gymnastics to the rocks, seeking challenges on small cliffs and boulders from Order Climbers' Club Southern Sandstone - and the Sea Cliffs of South-East England or see all our other Climbing Guides products. 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. 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. 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. Southern Sandstone Climbs. 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. Was it any good? Is the sandstone any good anyway? Lets find out! Covering all of the 12 Sandstone crags in the south east of England which climbing is permitted or accessible. 1,280 likes · 11 talking about this. 2019 South East Roundup 2019 has been another great year in the South East for climbing with new developments, new walls and unfortunately some access issues. 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. 488 full colour pages including a comprehensive introduction to sandstone climbing and the surrounding area. 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. Detailed maps and full-text descriptions in the now renowned Rockfax style, all lavishly supported by great action photography and aerial shots. For the first time since I have started writing this annual round-up in 2013 I have not contributed anything to the climbing in the South East (due to a nasty tendon injury in my hip which wrote most of the year off). Only top-rope and solo climbing is allowed since any lead climbing gear would damage the rock too much. Best climbed in the summer and autumn. Sunset Rock If any crag can be considered the “crown jewel” of southern sandstone climbing, it would be Sunset Rock. Oct 5, 2023 · Challenge your limits, master new skills, and experience the thrill of climbing with expert guidance on our Climbing Courses. 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. 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. Join our Fortnightly Social at Harrison's Rocks, or send the children along on a Sunday morning to our Explorer's Club. We have also been known to whisk avid adventurers off to locations around the UK and overseas for fun filled weekend climbing excursions. **Details** Harrison’s Rocks are owned and managed by the BMC for the benefit of climbers and the general public for recreation on foot. 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. Summary – The closest outdoor climbing area to London!! Sandstone Climbing on soft rock giving good bouldering, top and bottom roping and soloing. vnv xdiawgcx fbj dyy kphnw bxrucpz dxg yqd rdzxbl lfqd
|