UBES runs regular indoor climbing sessions throughout term, alongside outdoor climbing and dedicated climbing trips across the UK. Whether you are an experienced climber or have never climbed before, there are opportunities to get involved throughout the year.
No previous experience is required. We provide introductory instruction for beginners, and members can borrow much of the equipment needed to get started.
Weekly Climbing Sessions
Regular sessions take place at Bristol’s main climbing centres during term time. These provide opportunities to climb independently, meet other members and develop skills with support from more experienced UBES climbers.
- Monday · 18:30 — Flashpoint
Weekly bouldering session, usually followed by a pub trip. - Wednesday · 14:00–17:00 — Redpoint
Roped climbing session, with free instruction available to members. - Thursday · 19:00–21:00 — Redpoint
Postgraduate climbing session.
New to Climbing?
UBES runs introductory climbing sessions throughout the year for complete beginners. These cover the foundations of roped climbing, including tying in, belaying and using climbing equipment safely.
Give It a Go sessions are advertised at the beginning of the academic year and at other points during term. Existing members who would like to learn can also ask through the UBES WhatsApp community.
You do not need to own climbing equipment before attending an introductory session.
Equipment
For indoor climbing, you should wear comfortable clothing that allows unrestricted movement. Trainers can be used for some introductory sessions, while climbing shoes can be hired from the climbing wall.
UBES maintains a range of climbing equipment for members, including harnesses, ropes and other technical equipment. Club harnesses can be borrowed free of charge subject to availability, and equipment can also be hired directly from the climbing wall.
Members using their own equipment can refer to the UBES gear tape spreadsheet to help identify personal equipment.
Climbing Outdoors
UBES climbs outdoors whenever conditions and experience allow. Local climbing is centred around areas such as the Avon Gorge, providing members with opportunities to transfer skills developed indoors onto real rock.
We also organise dedicated climbing trips to some of the UK’s major climbing areas. Regular destinations include the Peak District for gritstone trad climbing, Portland for limestone sport climbing, and Cornwall for sea-cliff climbing.
Outdoor activities cater for a range of abilities, although participation in some sessions or trips may require members to demonstrate appropriate skills, such as safe belaying and competent use of climbing equipment.
Explore climbing destinations and trip photos →
Scrambling
Scrambling occupies the ground between hill walking and rock climbing, involving the use of both hands and feet to move over steeper rocky terrain, ridges and mountain faces.
Many UBES weekend trips offer scrambling where the destination, weather and experience of the group make it appropriate. Classic objectives include the North Ridge of Tryfan in Eryri and Striding Edge in the Lake District.
Scrambling varies considerably in difficulty. Easier routes may form part of a normal mountain day, while more technical routes require greater experience, judgement and sometimes the use of climbing equipment.
Getting Involved
Climbing sessions, introductory events and dedicated trips are advertised through the UBES calendar and member communications. Places on outdoor trips may be limited depending on the destination, available leaders and required experience.
If you are unsure which session is appropriate for you, speak to the Climbing Officers or ask through the UBES WhatsApp community.
