Peak District climbing is a sport that is both physically and mentally demanding. It often tests a climber’s strength, agility, balance and endurance but it also requires mental control too. Peak District rock climbing includes lots of different ways to get up and down our amazingly formed gritstone edges, from Peak District slab climbing to Peak District bouldering, Abseiling is very popular too, to name just a couple, but there are plenty more besides.
It’s crucial for Peak District climbing that you are super fit and know your terrain. It can be a very dangerous sport and you need knowledge of proper climbing techniques and equipment, for safe completion of rock faces and routes. At its most basic, Peak District climbing involves covering the route up gritstone rock with one’s hands and feet and with little more than a bouldering mat in way of protection. As your climbing route gets higher off the ground, the increased risk of injuries means additional safety measures and climbing techniques, equipment are needed – so don’t ever be tempted to try it without.
Peak District climbers usually work in pairs, and are often seen in colourful groups along Stanedge edge, Curbar and Froggatt too. With complicated systems of ropes and anchors weaving spiderwebs across the slabs, it can sometimes be hard to find a spot to call your own at the weekend that’s for sure.
The best time of year to climb is the spring and summer months but that doesn’t stop all, we know. For the beginner, climbing on sunny days when the holds are dry and provide the best grip is best, but some Peak District climbers also attempt to climb at night or in adverse weather conditions – but only if they have had the proper training, and are totally mad!
