newcastlecentric

If there was an award for “best use of a knackered old swimming pool”, Climb Newcastle would have it in the bag. But there isn’t, so they haven’t. What they do have is Newcastle’s first dedicated climbing centre, and that sounds far more fun, doesn’t it?

We last reported on the project in July, when there was scant climbing to be had. Now, the trio of internationally renowned climbers behind the project, including Andy Earl from Wideopen and Chris Graham from Whitley Bay have opened the centre to the public.

Activities revolve around bouldering - essentially rock climbing without the ropes. It’s not quite as suicidal as it sounds though; the heights climbed are limited and there are thick crash mats below, so that a fall doesn’t result in certain death.

The venue’s main arena in the former swimming pool and has circuits covering every level, from beginner to international athlete, while for the more advanced users there is also a cave training area. Got kids? Start them young. There’s a dedicated room for children and weekend starting for kids aged 3 and over. Crikey.

Be honest, it’ll be more exciting than that bloody treadmill at the gym. For details of opening times and courses, see the Climb Newcastle website.

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