Indoor climbing is a great activity for a number of reasons; it’s both a good strength and cardio workout, it’s good for the core and helps tone muscles. It’s also very sociable and because it’s an indoor activity it can be done anytime of the year – great when you live in Edinburgh!
Here are a few places to try out for all skill and ability levels.
Alien Rock
Alien Rock based in Newhaven was Scotland’s first dedicated indoor climbing centre and has been providing a fun, exciting and friendly venue for indoor climbers since 1994. Located across two facilities Alien One combines a fantastic selection of amazing climbing surfaces that all fit ingeniously into the vaulted ceiling of the former church building. While Alien Bloc is their bolder experience offering 500 sqm of varied angled walls from slab through to a huge 7 meter long roof.
Eden Rock
Eden Rock Edinburgh opened 5 April 2018 and is the the largest bouldering centre in Scotland. They offer climbing and training facilities for all ages and abilities. So whether you’re 7 or 70, a total beginner or a seasoned pro there is something for everyone. For experienced climbers can become full members on their first visit here and for complete beginners they offer 1 hour introductory courses.
Edinburgh International Climbing Arena
The EICA is based in Ratho just slightly outside Edinburgh and housed in what was a former stone quarry. It is the largest indoor climbing wall in the world and has 15,000 bolt-on holds and 300 routes ranging in difficulty. In additional to climbing you can also tackle boulders in the dedicated boulder room, or jump into a vertical playground at Clip n Climb, a beginner-friendly set of 15 climbing elements for ages four and above.
