Chris
Ed was great. Clear and encouraging communication throughout, with safety clearly paramount throughout. Such good fun!
This comprehensive trad climbing course is perfect for top-rope climbers, indoor leaders, and 'seconds' ready to take the next step into traditional (trad) climbing. Focused on building the essential skills for leading trad routes, the course combines technical knowledge, safety practices, and confidence-building techniques to ensure you’re prepared to lead on real rock. With small class sizes and guaranteed course operation, you’ll receive a highly personalised and supportive experience.
Your trad climbing journey begins with ground-based drills to introduce the fundamentals of trad protection, including gear placement, belaying for trad, and anchor construction. Working step-by-step through these essentials, you’ll have plenty of hands-on practice with each skill, building confidence in your abilities.
Moving to low-level mock leads protected by a top rope, you’ll apply these skills in realistic settings, simulating the dynamics of trad climbing while having an added level of safety. As you progress, we’ll guide you through technical and tactical aspects, from reading the rock to managing mental focus on lead routes. The goal is to have you complete your first trad lead by the end of the course, with each step of your journey supported and tailored to your individual pace and needs.
Throughout, our qualified Development Coach will be there to provide guidance, helping you adapt and refine your technique. By the time you finish, you’ll have a solid grasp of the skills needed to approach trad climbing safely and confidently on your own.
The course takes place at our centre, where you’ll be introduced to real rock climbing in an ideal environment for learning. With nearby trad climbing spots, we offer a unique setting that blends natural challenges with the support of expert coaching.
Participants should have experience with top-rope climbing or indoor leading, as well as a willingness to learn belaying and anchor-building techniques specifically for trad climbing.
This course is best suited for those ready to progress from 'seconding' or indoor leading to traditional outdoor leads.
Participants should be aware when booking that this is an Open Course. If you would like to book both spaces there is a significant discount offered on the second space. However if only space is booked you may be joined by another adult participant.
We’re committed to providing an inclusive, reliable experience, ensuring your course will run once booked, even if you’re the only participant. Our personalised approach, combined with guaranteed small class sizes, creates an ideal environment for learning the skills and strategies needed to safely take on trad climbing.
Backed by experienced, MTUK-certified instructors, our centre is the place to confidently advance your climbing skills in a safe, supportive atmosphere.
Requests to reschedule must be sent at least 24 hours before the course.
Availability is not guaranteed, especially during peak summer periods, but we will try to accommodate your request.
Please note that rescheduling is permitted only once. If you do not attend on the rescheduled date, you will not be eligible for a refund.
Courses are planned with weather flexibility in mind, as mountain conditions can vary. Be prepared for wet, windy, or colder conditions.
We may change locations to nearby areas based on forecasts. For instance, a course set for the Lake District might be relocated from Langdale to Duddon Valley (under 30 minutes away) if it offers better conditions.
If we deem no venue is suitable due to the weather, we’ll cancel and offer new dates or a 100% refund.
Under-18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian throughout the activity.
For children aged 17 and below, please contact us via the adventuro chat below before booking to confirm suitability for your planned activity.
This course is designed for climbers who have some experience with top-rope or indoor lead climbing, and for those who have previously climbed as a 'second' on trad routes.
It’s ideal for those looking to take the next step towards leading their own traditional (trad) climbing routes outdoors.
All climbing equipment required for trad climbing, such as ropes, harnesses, and protective gear, will be provided.
However, you’ll need to bring your own climbing clothing, shoes, and any personal items you prefer for outdoor climbing. Ensure you have comfortable, weather-appropriate attire, as this course takes place outside.
Accommodation and transport to the centre are not included. Participants are responsible for arranging their own travel and, if needed, accommodation nearby.
We can provide recommendations for local places to stay upon request.
About the centre
West View Leisure Centre, Ribbleton Lane, Preston, Lancashire, PR1 5EP
Ed was great. Clear and encouraging communication throughout, with safety clearly paramount throughout. Such good fun!
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 EA Mountain Skills, a partner of adventuro.
