Climbing at Elmbridge Xcel Leisure Complex
Whether you’ve just got into the sport or are a seasoned Veteran we have something for you! Our 13 roped lines are 12.5m high and have over 40 routes ranging from 4 to 7b with regular route sets planned by professional route setters.
Our wall is the perfect environment to climb whatever the weather outside and our auto-belay line provides a great training tool for those without a partner.
For regular term time schedules please click below. To book, see our timetable at the bottom of the page.
Wall information
Anyone can book onto one of our instructor led taster sessions, but independent climbers can climb whenever we are open for as long as you want. There are two levels of competency for independent climbers: auto belay only and authorised wall user.
About our climbing wall
Whether you’ve just got into the sport or are a season Veteran we have something for you! Our [number] roped lines have over 13 routes ranging from 4 to 7b with monthly route sets done by professional route setters.
Our wall is the perfect environment to climb whatever the weather outside and our auto belay line provides a great training tool for those without a partner.
Opening hours
- Monday: 2:15pm - 9:45pm
- Tuesday: 2:15pm - 9:45pm
- Wednesday: 3:00pm - 9:45pm
- Thursday: 3:00pm - 9:45pm
- Friday: 1:00pm-9:45pm
- Saturday: 9:00am – 6:00pm
- Sunday: 9:00am – 6:00pm
Session options
- Experienced climbers that have passed a safety test can use our walls our for independent climbing with no need to pre-book. We have pay as you go options available for adults, juniors, and concessions, as well as direct debit payment options for regular climbers.
- For newcomers to the sport, we offer a range of instructor led sessions that are bookable via the timetable. If your goal is to become an independent climber, we recommend booking onto a Rock start session, where we’ll teach you basic skills needed to work towards passing your safety test.
Safety information
Your safe enjoyment is our number one priority whilst using our facility. All users that wish to climb independently will be asked to demonstrate that they can safely tie in, belay and fit a harness on their first visit.
The minimum age for climbing independently is 14. Those aged 14-16 need to complete an additional 10 supervised sessions before they can climb independently. Anyone 18+ who is safety tested can supervise up to two novices.
If you wish to become an independent climber, we recommend booking a Rock Start session via the timetable, where you’ll learn everything needed before completing your safety test.
Need equipment?
You can hire everything you need at Elmbridge Xcel Leisure Centre – harnesses, shoes, chalk, bags, belays etc. Prices are £3 for 1 item or £5 for two
Need a climbing partner?
For independent climbers, our adult social evenings are a great way to meet more climbers and you’re always guaranteed a belay. Running Monday and Wednesdays from 8pm.
Newcomers to climbing
We offer a number of avenues into climbing, from group sessions to private lessons. All sessions are bookable, so take a look and secure your spot.
Try climbing
We offer a number of avenues into climbing, from group sessions to private lessons.
Adventure Climb (Ages 4+)
A great way to start climbing for fun! Suitable for or all ages, 4 and above.
You’ll have 60 minutes using our auto belays to test your agility, confidence, balance and problem solving all while being supported by one of our instructors.
- £15 per session
Intro to climbing
A 45-minute introduction to the climbing wall using our auto belays. We'll show you all the skills you need to get climbing safely and prepare you for our auto belay safety assessment if you wish to start climbing independently.
These sessions are arranged on demand. If you are interested in booking one of these, please enquire, and our friendly team will be in touch to arrange a time that suits you.
- £30 for up to 3 participants
Rock start (Ages 18+)
A flexible session for adults that are new to climbing. The aim for these 90 minute sessions is to teach you the basic skills needed to pass the safety test and become an independent climber. This should take 3 or 4 sessions. With sessions held every week, you’ll be an independent climber in no time!
These sessions are free for anyone on a Climbing membership. Contact a member of our team to find out more about this option.
- £25 per session
Private Instruction
For those looking to get the most out of their first climbing experience by hiring one of our amazing instructors for a private session. These 60 minute sessions are tailored to you and the ability of your group making them perfect for both nervous beginners and seasoned climbers alike.
These sessions are arranged on demand. If you are interested in booking one of these, please enquire, and our friendly team will be in touch to arrange a time that suits you.
- £40 for up to 2 participants
For more information about sessions and to book, you can call us on 01932 260300.
Booking is essential for all instructed sessions.
Climbing courses for children
As well as adult sessions, we also offer tuition sessions for children, providing them with an early taste of climbing. Our qualified, friendly instructors not only keep your young climber safe, but make sure they have a great time and learn new skills.
Courses and sessions for young people
Active, exciting, fun, sociable… How many reasons do you need to bring your child to learn how to climb?
Our qualified, friendly instructors not only keep your young climber safe but make sure they have a great time, learn new skills and develop their confidence and technique. For information on session times please visit our timetable.
Rock Clubs
Learning to climb in a fun social format. From basic skills, all the way through to a skilled climber, work through our 6 level award scheme for a progressive learning experience. Parental consent form required.
7+ & 12+ sessions
- Session length: 90 minutes
- Instructor ratio: 1:6
- £53 per month paid by direct debit + £15 joining fee
- Certificated levels
- Free unlimited climbing (when supervised by a competent adult)
14+ sessions
A coached session to bridge the gap between fully instructed climbing and independent climbing. All participants must have passed a safety test before joining this session.
- Session length: 90 minutes
- Instructor ratio: 1:12
- £53 per month paid by direct debit + £15 joining fee
- Certificated levels
- Free unlimited climbing
Pebbles (ages 4-6)
Climbing for fun means you’ll introduce your child to climbing in a safe & controlled environment. Small supervised groups & lots of climbing games gives them great confidence while our award scheme gives those that want that extra challenge a great way to record their progress as they reach new heights! Sessions run on Tuesday and Wednesday afternoon and Saturday morning.
- Session length: 60 minutes
- Instructor ratio 1:4
- Cost: £53 per month paid by direct debit + £15 joining fee.
- Certificated levels
- Free unlimited climbing (when supervised by a competent adult)
Girls only rock club (ages 12+)
Learning to climb in a fun social format. From basic skills, all the way through to a skilled climber, work through our 6 level award scheme for a progressive learning experience.
- Wednesday 6.15pm - 7.45pm
Starting 29th January!
Children's climbing courses can be booked online. For more details or to join our waiting list please contact us with you child's name and age.
Climbing courses for adults
There are so many benefits to being a climber, it’s a physical and mental challenge, a great sociable sport with a really friendly community and it’s easy to get started with our sessions.
Courses and sessions for adults
There are so many benefits to being a climber, it’s a physical and mental challenge, a great sociable sport with a really friendly community and it’s easy to get started with our sessions.
Rock Start (adult beginner)
Learn to climb session for adults new to climbing. The aim for these sessions are to teach you the basic skills needed to pass the safety test. This should take 3 or 4 sessions - you'll be an independent climber in no time.
- Session: 90 minutes
- Ratio: 1:4
- £25 per session
- Free for those on a Climbing DD membership (£40pcm)
Adult social
Our adult social evenings are a great way to meet more climbers and you’re always guaranteed a belay. We also offer coaching as well as a programme of events and workshops. Entry is the same as independent climbing making it a great way to bridge the gap between fully instructed sessions and full independent climbing.
- £10.00 per person/session (to be paid as a direct debit of £40/month)
- Session: 120 minutes
We set new routes every month, with a variety of internal and external setters. We cover everything from beginners/party lines to challenging routes, keeping you on your toes and coming back for more!
For more information about session timings please view our timetable. Booking is essential for all instructed sessions. Please call 01932 260300 for more information or to book an activity.
Birthday parties
Ensure your child celebrates in style with our special rock-climbing parties. Guaranteed fun, games and climbing are at the centre of all bookings with adventures for all ages and abilities.
Parties at Elmbridge Xcel Leisure Complex
Fun, games and climbing are at the centre of all our parties and we have something for all age ranges and abilities. With a climbing party you are guaranteed FUN!
Sound awesome? Do you think your child and their friends will love it? Check out the great selection of parties we have to offer below.
Ultimate Climbing Adventure Party (Ages 6+ years)
Are you ready for the ultimate party? Our range of climbing walls offer a variety of heights and challenges for you and your guests to conquer! Feeling brave? Ask our instructors for an extra challenge.
- Length: 1.5 hours
- Up to 16 Participants
- £280
Adventure Climb (Ages 6+ years)
Our amazing instructors will get you scaling our 12.5m main wall and auto belay lines, offering climbing games and teamwork.
- Length: 1.5 hours
- Up to 6 Participants
- £130
If you have participants who are 4-5 years old please contact email us for guidance on how they may be able to participate.
Included in you price is access to a party room. This is available 40 minutes after your party. Please note, food and drink will not be provided.
Groups
Group sessions are available.
Schools and groups
Bringing a group climbing at our wall couldn’t be easier! We’ll get all of you up the wall and having fun!
We can tailor the challenge to suit the needs of your group, with our qualified instructors delivering fun, engaging sessions to meet your outcomes.
Schools and groups
We can tailor the challenge to suit the needs of your group, with our qualified instructors delivering fun, engaging sessions to meet your outcomes. Some examples of sessions we regularly run are:
- Sessions for uniformed groups (Scouts, Guides etc)
- GCSE PE
- Sessions for those with additional needs
- After school clubs for both primary and secondary schools
- Charity groups
- Team building sessions
Not sure if this is the right session for you? Contact us and we'll help you decide.
For more information, availability and to book please call 01932 260300 (option 6).
Frequently asked questions
An answer to your questions.
Climbing FAQs
What's the best way to start climbing?
We have a range of introductory sessions which can be booked here.
What should I bring with me?
Just yourself and a water bottle.
What should I wear?
We recommend comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely up the wall. Skirts, dresses and hooded tops are not permitted. And all shoes must be closed toed and securely fastened, no flip flops, crocs or sandals.
Head scarfs are permitted but must be tucked in and secure to avoid getting caught on the wall.
Long hair must be tied back.
When should I arrive for my session?
For Adventure Climb sessions we recommend arriving 15 minutes prior to the activity start time as you will be required to complete a consent form. If you are dropping off children, you will need to complete this on their behalf.
For all other sessions please allow enough time to arrive at the centre, park, change and use the toilet before your session start time.
Can I leave my child with you?
If your child is under 8 years of age then you will need to stay within the Centre so we can contact you at all times.
Children over 8 years of age can be left with us, but we advise making sure your contact details are up to date with us so we can contact you if we need to.
Can I stay and watch?
Yes of course, we encourage it. Speak to our team who will point out our spectator areas.
I'm scared of heights, is that a problem?
That's not a problem, you don’t have to go to the top it’s more about having fun. Just go as far as you are comfortable doing and come back down. Our instructors are here to help you.
Is it dangerous?
All climbing activities have a risk of serious injury or death. Participants must recognise that even if they follow all good practices there may still be the risk of accident or injury. It is the responsibility of the participant to adhere to the conditions of use that will be explained to you at the start of the session.
Do I need to book?
Booking is essential for all instructed activity sessions.
If you are an independent climber who has passed a safety test with us then you are welcome to come during normal opening hours without booking.
I can already climb, what do I need to do?
If you are 16 years and over you will just need to pass a safety test with us. For this you will need to demonstrate you can safely secure a harness, tie-in and belay. Please contact us to agree a time for the safety check.
Can I lead climb?
Yes, our walls are equipped with quickdraws for you to use, you will just need to bring an appropriately rated dynamic climbing rope
I used to climb; how do I get back into it?
If you just need a refresher, our Adult Rockstart sessions are what you need, these can be booked online.
Are there any age restrictions?
Climbing is a sport for everyone, the minimum age we can take is 4 years old, but please check individual sessions/course for age related information.
I have a medical condition, can I climb?
We try to be as accessible as possible and encourage you to speak to our instructors so we can make sure we accommodate your needs.
Can I bring my own equipment?
Yes, our instructors will just need to check it is suitable for use with our walls.