First time at Climbing District?

Everything you need for your first climb.

New to bouldering or visiting us for the first time? Here’s how to register, choose your session and get on the wall at our London gyms. Coming for an independent climb? Explore the

Choose your London gym

Every Climbing District centre welcomes first-time visitors. Choose the most convenient location for directions, opening hours and facilities.

Building One London
The Heart of Bermondsey
Drummond Rd, London, SE16 4DG
Maps Learn more
London Fields London
The hippest climbing gym
in London
Unit 30, Canal Place, Andrews Road
London E8 4FX

Maps Learn more
Tottenham Hale London
The Old Archives
of London
Tottenham Hale, London, N15 4BE

Maps Learn more
A climbing instructor speaking with a group of adults beside a colourful indoor bouldering wall
Climber on a bouldering wall at Tottenham Hale while other visitors watch
Climber on a steep training wall at London Fields with two people watching

Before you arrive

A few essentials to make your first climb as straightforward as possible.

  • Register in advance. Complete the relevant waiver or consent form, and follow the safety guidance at reception.
  • Bring comfortable clothes and water. Wear something you can move freely in; bring your own climbing shoes or hire a pair at the gym. Hire prices vary by centre and pass.
  • Check your visit. Compare day passes and memberships, and check your chosen gym’s opening hours before you travel.
  • Visiting with a child? Read the children’s climbing and supervision guide and check which forms are required for your age group and venue.
Registration & waivers Contact our team

First-time climbing FAQs

Questions about your first bouldering session? Here are the essentials.

Bouldering is climbing on lower walls above safety matting, without ropes or harnesses. Every gym has climbs for different abilities, and it is important to follow the safety guidance for the wall and landing areas.

You do not need previous climbing experience to try bouldering as an adult, but you must complete the relevant registration and follow any safety briefing or checks at reception. If you’d like an introduction before climbing independently, book a coached beginner session.

Instructor-led introduction sessions should be booked in advance. If you plan to climb independently, complete your registration first and check day-pass options and your gym’s opening hours. The £10 first-climb offer can be purchased online.

Yes, but the age, registration and supervision requirements differ between centres and activities. Please read Climbing with Children before arriving. Adults supervising children must meet the gym’s requirements; 14–17-year-olds who wish to climb without an adult need parental consent and an on-site safety assessment.

Please ask reception to check your existing account before submitting a new registration form. The team can confirm whether your details and acknowledgements of risk are still valid.

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