Frequently Asked Questions

Can I just turn up and climb?

If you are an experienced climber, then you are able to use the centre unsupervised, providing you are able to tie in using an approved knot and demonstrate the correct use of a belay device. If you require any instruction, you will need to book a session with one of our instructors.

I am an experienced climber, can I bring my friend and show them what to do?

If you are an experienced and competent climber, then you are able to sign responsibility for two novices and take them into the centre under your supervision.

What time are you open?

We are open from 10:00am to 10:00pm during the week, and from 10:00 to 6:00pm at weekends and bank holidays.

Can I hire equipment?

We have harnesses, belay devices and climbing shoes and helmets available to hire for use in the centre.

What size shoes do you hire out?

We have a range of shoe sizes available, from UK3 (continental 36) to UK13 (continental 48).

Can I climb in trainers?

Climbing in trainers is acceptable, as long as they are reasonably clean. Muddy or dirty shoes are not allowed.

Do you hire out ropes or out door equipment?

We do not hire out ropes for leading in the centre or any equipment for climbing outdoors.

Do you have a Café or shop in the centre?

We have an excellent café in the centre, with a seating area on our impressive mezzanine floor, overlooking the main climbing area, giving a superb view of the action. We also have a branch of Cotswold Outdoor, specialists climbing and outdoor equipment.

I have never climbed before, what is the best way to start?

We run one hour taster sessions that are suitable for anyone wishing to try indoor climbing, if you then decide you would like to take it further, you can book onto a beginner's course, which will enable you to climb unsupervised on top-ropes within the centre.

How old do you have to be to climb?

Competent climbers can climb from the age of 18. 14-17 year olds can climb unsupervised after attending a Junior Sign Off Session

Do I need to bring my own quickdraws?

All our lead lines are equipped with in-situ quickdraws, so there is no need to bring your own.

Can I bring my kids along?

If you are a competent climber, then you are able to take responsibility for up to two children or novices in the centre. If you are an inexperienced climber, you will need to book a session with on of our instructors.

Do you have a bouldering area?

We have two substantial bouldering areas in addition to a traversing room, with a wide range of grades for both novices and stronger climbers. You do not have to be a competent climber to use the bouldering area, but anyone under the age of 18 must be supervised by an adult.

Do I pay less if I am just bouldering?

Entry price for the centre is the same, whether you intend to use the roped walls, or just use the bouldering area.

Are staff members First Aid qualified?

There is always a trained First Aider on the premises, all senior staff are First Aid qualified.

How experienced are members of staff?

There is a range of experience within our staff, from relative newcomers to those with decades of knowledge at their disposal.

Can I book over the phone or on the internet?

At present the only method of booking is over the phone. Some time in the near future internet booking will be available through the Manchester Climbing Centre web site.

How do I book a course at the Manchester Climbing Centre ?

At the moment there are two ways to book, over the phone or at the reception in the Centre itself. A member of staff will fill in a booking form taking details such as contact phone number, clients name, course type, numbers in the group, medical information and details of any deposit taken.

Can I book a course at the last minute?

You can if there is an available slot to accommodate the course you wish to take. We prefer to take bookings at least a week in advance so we can guarantee you your course requirements.

Do I have to pay a deposit?

Yes you do. For all courses we ask for a 50% deposit to be paid on booking. For outdoor courses we require the balance to be paid in full at least 2 weeks in advance.

When do I pay the balance?

For indoor courses the balance should be paid on arrival at reception prior to commencing your course.

Can I pay over the phone using a Credit or Debit Card?

Yes you can. We take the following cards: SWITCH, SOLO, VISA DEBIT, VISA, MAESTRO, MASTERCARD and VISA ELECTRON. All transactions are carried out immediately on receipt of information and all details are destroyed. Any transactions under £10 will incur a 50p charge.

Who do I make cheques out to?

Manchester Climbing Centre Limited

Can I cancel a course?

For Indoor Courses: We will return the full cost of the course if we are given 1 weeks notice of cancellation. If less than 7 days notice is given, this will result in the loss of 50% deposit. This includes rearrangement. For Outdoor Courses: Any cancellations within a four week period are subject to loss of 50% deposit. Any cancellations within 1 - 14 days of the course are subject to loss of 100% course fees. (See terms and conditions).

Will Manchester Climbing Centre ever cancel the course?

MCC endeavour to run all courses, however there may be times when external circumstances force us have to cancel courses. We will notify you as soon as is possible. Please see the "terms and conditions" for more information.