Learn how to confidently lead sport climbs on real rock with this two-day course. Designed for climbers looking to transition from indoor walls or top roping, this course covers essential skills like clipping quickdraws, threading lower-offs, and managing lead falls. With expert instruction, you'll develop the knowledge and confidence needed to safely lead your own sport routes outdoors.
Over two full days, you'll gain hands-on experience in outdoor sport climbing under the guidance of experienced instructors. The course begins with an introduction to outdoor sport climbing, including route selection, crag etiquette, and equipment checks. You'll then practise safe and efficient lead climbing techniques, learning how to clip quickdraws correctly and avoid common mistakes.
Throughout the course, you'll work on refining your movement to climb more confidently while leading. Instructors will cover how to assess fixed anchors, thread a lower-off, and safely clean a route. You'll also develop essential lead belaying skills, ensuring you can safely support a climbing partner. By the end of the two days, you'll have the skills needed to lead sport routes independently, with a solid understanding of safety procedures and best practices.
The course takes place at well-established sport climbing crags in South West England, with potential locations including Sandford Quarry near Cheddar and Wyndcliff Quarry near Chepstow.
These venues offer a variety of bolted routes suited to learning and progression. The exact location will be confirmed upon booking. Transport to and from the crag is not included.
Participants must be at least 16 years old. You should have either completed a Rock Skills Introduction Course or have experience climbing at least 10 routes on indoor walls or outdoor crags and belaying on 10 occasions.
A good level of general fitness is recommended, as climbing requires strength, endurance, and balance.
As the South West's largest outdoor activity provider, they have over 30 years of experience delivering high-quality adventure training. Their instructors are passionate about helping climbers progress, ensuring each course is safe, supportive, and engaging. Whether you're taking your first steps into lead climbing or looking to refine your skills, you'll receive expert guidance tailored to your level.
Their approach is built around respect for risk, nature, and personal choice. Every course is designed to develop confidence, independence, and an appreciation for the outdoors. With a strong focus on safety and progression, this course provides a structured pathway into the world of outdoor sport climbing.
You should have some prior climbing experience before joining.
By the end of the course, you’ll have the skills needed to lead sport climbs safely, including clipping quickdraws correctly, belaying a lead climber, threading a lower-off, and assessing fixed protection.
All essential climbing equipment, including a helmet, harness, ropes, and quickdraws, will be provided.
The course is held at well-established sport climbing crags in South West England, with potential locations including Sandford Quarry near Cheddar and Wyndcliff Quarry near Chepstow.
You should bring comfortable clothing suitable for climbing and the weather conditions, along with climbing shoes, a chalk bag, food, and plenty of water. A small backpack is useful for carrying your essentials to the crag.
No, accommodation is not included. You will need to arrange your own stay if required. The climbing locations are in South West England, near areas with a range of accommodation options, including campsites, B&Bs, and hotels.
About the centre
Sandford Quarry, Cheddar
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by Mendip Activity Centre, a partner of adventuro.
West of England, United Kingdom
From £85
Sandford, Churchill, Winscombe
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