Portland Climbing Trip - 2 Days of Climbing on Limestone
The limestone climbing on the Isle of Portland is not to be missed. Projecting out into the English Channel, the climbing can be found on both sides of the island which means there's always somewhere to climb the sun. The climbing on Portland is a little less intimidating than Swanage as most crags can be accessed via paths rather than by abseil, and are usually set a little way inland rather than directly above the sea
Surrounded by the sea, the Island of Portland provides the climber with superb steep limestone cliffs to scale. The views stretching out over the sea are spectacular, especially on a sunny day!
About Portland
The Isle of Portland is 6km long and 2.7km wide and is accessed from Weymouth in Dorset. A barrier beach (Chesil Beach) joins it to the mainland and is part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Coastline (England's first). Portland Harbour sits at the entrance to the Island, and is one of the largest man-made harbours in the world. Portland and its harbour have always been of great strategic importance and it's steeped in history from lighthouses and castles to tales of smugglers and pirates! Much of this can be seen along the crags and cliffs.
Portland is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise with its famous rock climbing cliffs, superb watersports from diving, kite surfing and was even the site of the UK's Olympic sailing waters in 2012.
Rock Type
The rocks that make up the climbing areas of Portland are Limestone and are part of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site. Limestone typically has smaller sharper edged holds and the crags generally have steep faces.
Information
Season
March to October
Duration
2 days
Group Size
4-8
Restrictions
Minimum age: 18 Max weight: 18 stone (115kg).
Who is it for?
Our Portland climbing holidays are aimed at those who can tie into the rope and belay however we welcome complete beginners and experienced lead climbers alike.
Our instructors will tailor this climbing course to suit each individual's needs. We will set up the ropes allowing you to concentrate on developing at your own pace (be it cranking on overhangs or just getting your feet off the ground!).
Prerequisites
Aimed at those who know how to tie into the rope and belay other climbers. There is no minimum climbing grade as we'll tailor the trip to everyone's needs.
Beginners Welcome
Although our climbing holidays are designed as a natural stepping-stone from our Climbing Experience or Introduction to Rock Climbing courses, we welcome complete beginners although be prepared for a steeper learning curve.
Lead Climbers Welcome
Our climbing holidays are simply about doing awesome climbs and hanging out with cool people. Even if you’re an experienced climber, come and meet new friends and challenge yourself on rocks you may not have climbed before.
What's included for you?
- Accommodation and catering.
- Our expert instructors will happily guide you to the best climbs on the crags in the area.
- Safety point of contact for those more adventurous routes.
What's not included?
- Climbing tuition is not included, however, we will always share our knowledge and expertise.
- You'll need your own climbing equipment
- You won't be on our insurance (as we're not teaching you).
Please contact us for more info.
Groups
Group holidays can be arranged based on a minimum of 4 people.
Please note that all group bookings will be available for others to book, unless booking for a minimum of 6 people.
Itinerary
First Night
Depending on what time everyone arrives at the accommodation, we usually meet in a local pub to chew the fat over a pint. After all this is what climbing holidays are all about.
Day 1
We'll enjoy breakfast at our accommodation and chat about the days climbing (this gives us a chance to make plans based on the weather forecast). Then it's off to the rocks where your climbing instructors will set up all the ropes, leaving you to concentrate fully on your climbing. It's your holiday so you can climb as much or as little as you want.
After the day of climbing, it’s time to relax and enjoy dinner and a pint at the pub and reflect on the day, and no doubt have a few laughs as well.
Day 2
Our instructors will always aim to take you to a different crag to add variety to your climbing holiday, and having seen you climb the day before will be able to set personal goals and coach you on your climbing technique and style. Depending on ability our instructors may also set up an abseil for those that wish. At the end of the holiday, our instructors can offer advice regarding your own personal climbing progression.
Skills Covered
- Safety awareness
- Belaying (depending on experience)
- Equipment: harness, helmet, ropes, belay devices & climbing shoes
- Climbing movement & techniques
- Tying into the rope (depending on experience)
- Abseiling
- Climbing etiquette
- Route selection
- Climbing guide books
- Climbing history and the BMC
Locations
Portland, Dorset.
Equipment
Equipment supplied
All rock climbing and safety equipment is supplied including:
- Ropes
- Helmet
- Belaying device and karabiners
The items below are included, however, to gain the most from this course we recommend that you have your own items:
- Harness
- Climbing shoes
Equipment needed
For all outdoor climbing courses you must have extra warm clothes and waterproofs, we will provide you with a full kit list upon booking.
- Comfortable clothing, suitable for the time of year*
- Waterproof jacket and trousers
- Approach shoes / trainers**
- Climbing shoes
- Harness
- Rucksack (approx. 30-40ltr)
- Packed lunch and plenty of water
- Medication / Tablets / Inhaler etc.
The above list is just a guide and appropriate clothing for the time of year should be worn.
*Clothing should comprise of several layers to trap the warmth. Please do not wear denim as it restricts movement, is cold when wet and is slow to dry.
**For the walk-ins we’d recommend sturdy approach shoes or trainers with a substantial tread should be worn. Walking boots can be a good option but if we’re attempting long routes and climbing with kit they’ll be very heavy to carry.
Please remember the crags can be a fair walk or scramble from the car park, so it's important to put all of your kit in a suitable size rucksack leaving space for climbing equipment.
Equipment shop
Take a look at our online shop for any equipment you might want for your outdoor adventures. We stock a variety of equipment and can give expert advice if you have any queries. Choose to collect your order on a course (free of charge) and your instructor will have it ready and waiting for you when you arrive.
Transport
To reduce the environmental impact, we actively encourage people to lift share where possible. Our instructors may be able to share transport from Brighton, London and the South East, or we will meet at the venue.
Accommodation
2 Nights bunkhouse accommodation included.
Catering
Day 1: Buffet-style breakfast and lunch included.
Day 2: Buffet-style breakfast and lunch included.
The evening meal is not included but please join us at the local pub for some food and a pint.
