Chalk Your Hands and Go: Where to Climb in London with Arrival at One
In partnership with Hinge
Chalk Your Hands and Go: Where to Climb in London with Arrival at One
No mountains? No problem. Walls are made for climbing—which means urban centres are fast transforming into bouldering hotspots for anyone willing to chalk up their hands and hoist themselves upwards.
The climbing lifestyle is about connecting with yourself on the wall, and with other people off of it. It demands presence, problem-solving, and patience with yourself and those around you—creating an environment where people physically and metaphorically uplift one another.
Arrival at One is a crew of climbing enthusiasts committed to connecting people to nature, and each other, hosting regular events in and around London. This is where they go to climb, and spots they go to fuel up and wind down when they’re not scaling walls.
This article is part of Assemble.
In this Guide
Mabley Green & Shoreditch Boulder
“ The granite boulders at both Shoreditch Park and Mabley Green offer great outdoor bouldering right in the heart of London. These boulders provide both an urban bouldering venue and art installation, chosen from a quarry in Cornwall and brought to London by the artist John Frankland. These boulders offer an exciting alternative for those looking to climb on some rock without the increased cost of travelling to a crag. Plus, their permanent nature offers the consistency that indoor climbing cannot, since indoor problems are changed every two weeks. Free to use year-round, these spots are perfect for climbers of all levels, making it a fun space for beginners to join and connect with one another. ”
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Muro
“Muro Climbing Gym in Peckham is a great spot for climbers of all abilities with one of the lowest costs to participate, making it super friendly for beginners and those looking to try something new. Its unique range of Japanese holds make it distinct from other climbing gyms in London and its spraywall — at 20, 30 and 40 degrees — allow for endless board problems for all abilities. Climbing on the spraywall is a super social way of climbing and allows for everyone to be trying problems in the same area, together. They’ve also got a comp wall which allows for more modern-style problems and is a fun switch up from the spraywall.”
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Hackney Wick Community Sauna
“The Hackney Wick Community Sauna, run by ‘Community Sauna Baths’, is a lovely place to relax after a climb or a run. They have several saunas located throughout London, all of which are super affordable compared to many others. They also offer temperature-controlled ice baths, which are great for in-between sauna sessions. Additionally, they host a variety of workshops and classes throughout the month. It's the perfect way to unwind and feel like you're not in the city, even if only for an hour.”
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Harrison's Rocks
“Just south of London, there are several Sandstone climbing destinations. While the climbing quality may not compare to what you'd experience in the Peaks or North Wales, it’s a fun day out from London if you're looking to try outdoor climbing. The spots are beginner-friendly but also offer a range of grades for all abilities. A few venues provide guided sessions where you'll learn to set up top ropes and belay. You can reach them by public transport followed by a short walk. It makes for a great summer day trip! Harrisons Rocks is a favourite.”
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Knees Up
“Knees Up in Hackney is a cafe, community space, and retailer that hosts a variety of events each month, including regular runs, chess clubs, yoga, and strength workshops. Located on Hackney Road, the naturally-lit space is perfect for working or hanging out. The staff are super friendly, and the coffee and food are always delicious, with a fresh batch regularly rotated. The retail space is well curated, featuring magazines, books, activewear, and lifestyle products. ”
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Pockets
“Pockets, the Hackney spot where the queue starts building from 11AM (breakfast falafel?). Pockets removes any decision fatigue by simply stating the menu as ‘FALAFEL’. Get there whenever you can, and don’t feel ashamed to beat the queues and have falafel for brunch at 11AM. You will not be disappointed. ”
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