trad climbing: Intro
A one-day climbing course introducing outdoor rock climbing in the UK.
Whether you’re new to outdoor climbing or want to build confidence placing gear and reading routes, this is a great first step into the world of trad climbing.
This course is delivered by mountain professionals that are affiliated with the Association of Mountaineering Instructors
1 DAY COURSE
PRICES
£150pp
COURSE OVERVIEW
An Intro to Trad course provides a solid foundation in the essential skills and knowledge needed for safe and enjoyable traditional rock climbing. It covers core climbing techniques, the use of equipment, outdoor tactics, and key technical skills such as rope work, belaying, and placing protection like nuts, cams, and hexes.
COURSE OUTLINE:
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Climbing Movement & Technique
Improve footwork, balance, and body positioning on rock, with guidance on different climbing styles. -
Gear & Equipment
Learn about essential trad gear—nuts, cams, hexes—as well as harnesses, helmets, and ropes. -
Rope Skills
Practice tying in, belaying, placing and removing gear, building anchors, and safe abseiling techniques. -
Outdoor Skills & Tactics
Understand how to read routes, use guidebooks and climbing apps, assess crag conditions, and follow best practice for outdoor ethics. -
Safety & Risk Awareness
Learn how to manage hazards, avoid common injuries, and respond in emergencies—including mountain rescue basics.
WHAT TO EXPECT:
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A full day of climbing on real rock.
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Instruction tailored to your experience level.
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Technical equipment (helmet, harness, ropes) provided—just bring your own rock shoes and outdoor clothing.
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Low instructor-to-client ratios (1:2 maximum) for a personalised learning experience.
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Led by qualified, experienced instructors holding nationally recognised Mountain Training awards.
SKILLS COVERED:
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Movement coaching and climbing styles
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Fundamental climbing skills
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Technical gear and its application
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Tying in & belaying
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Placing and removing gear
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Rope work and climbing systems
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Climbing calls and communication
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Safe abseiling techniques
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Lots of climbing
WHO IS THE COURSE FOR?
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Indoor climbers - looking to make the move outdoors and learn how traditional climbing works in real rock environments.
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Beginners - with little or no outdoor climbing experience who want a safe and supportive introduction to trad climbing.
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Adventurous individuals - seeking a new challenge and a practical way to get started with climbing in the mountains.
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Returning climbers - who want to refresh their knowledge of trad gear, rope systems and outdoor safety.
Anyone aged 16+ (under-18s must be accompanied by a parent or guardian).
No prior trad experience is required, though some indoor climbing or general fitness is beneficial.
dates
COURSE RATIOS
Max ratio: 1 instructor to 2 clients
1:1 bespoke course: £260 per day
1:2 bespoke course: £150pp per day (bring a partner to save)
Additional instructors provided to maintain a 1:2 ratio as group size increases
All courses are led by MCI-qualified instructors affiliated with the Association of Mountaineering Instructors (AMI), with extensive experience in trad climbing and coaching.
PRE-REQUISITES
Ages 16+ welcome; under-18s must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian
Under 16s (12+) can join on private courses/days - perfect for family days out
No experience needed – this is an intro to outdoor climbing
Some indoor climbing experience is helpful but not essential
You’ll learn to move on rock, climb on ropes, and second trad routes
EQUIPMENT
Included:
Harness, helmet, ropes, and all climbing hardware
Bring:
Comfortable rock shoes and suitable outdoor clothing
A kit list is provided at booking
Rock shoes: Indoor shoes are fine; see our rock shoe guide for tips
Need help choosing shoes?
We're happy to advise before your course
VENUE
Open courses run in the North Lakes, mainly around Borrowdale
Typical venues include
-Black Crag
-Bowderstone Crag
-Shepherd's Crag
-Glaciated Slab
Meet at 9:00am at Keswick Climbing Wallto discuss the course plan
Keswick is accessible by bus (with £3 fares)
Bespoke courses can run anywhere, often in Borrowdale or Langdale for easy access and excellent climbing
OTHER COURSES OF INTEREST...
Hire our Lake District Mountaineering instructors for private and tailored programmes.
Experiences suited to your goals & ambitions to make the most of YOUR time in the mountains.
Summer & Winter guiding available - tackle the mountains all year round.
Day rates:
1:1 £250
1:2 £150pp
CONTACT
We look forward to hearing from you and working towards your mountaineering ambitions and helping to achieve your goals.
Phone or WhatsApp:
07458353048
If calls are missed we will respond when possible, please leave a WhatsApp or text message so we can respond to your enquiry.
Thank you