Cheshire’s climbing spots may not be on the tip of every climbers tongue, however with indoor and outdoor options there is something for every climber to jam their toe into!
The sandstone crags and indoor climbing walls of Cheshire provide an invaluable stomping ground for local climbers of all levels.
Here are the main indoor and outdoor climbing locations in Cheshire:
Climbing Hut
Climbing Hut (Ellesmere Port) is one of Cheshire’s flagship climbing centres — a bright, modern, community‑driven bouldering gym with problems for every level – an epic 1,000 sq metres of them! Expect slabs, overhangs, caves, training boards, kids’ areas, and a café that takes its coffee and vegan snacks very seriously.
Located just off the M53, it’s easy to reach and has free onsite parking. Route setting is frequent and varied, and the centre runs classes, socials, competitions, and kids’ clubs. It’s a brilliant all‑rounder and a perfect rainy‑day refuge.
The friendly staff are great with beginners and run regular guided training sessions and events. The onsite cafe is highly rated (the coffee is next level!), and a well stocked shop will satisfy those looking for a retail fix.
Further info: climbinghut.com
Awesome Walls
Awesome Walls climbing centre is based in a former cotton spinning mill, close to the Cheshire border in Stockport. It caters for all genres and levels of climbing, and has a wide range of lead climbing routes, top-roping, some auto belays, a large bouldering room and a traversing wall.
Its famous engine room is home to a colossal 23.5 metre tall wall, a great way to test your nerve in a controlled environment !
There is a cafe and the usual array of climbing accessories available onsite.
Further info: awesomewalls.co.uk
The Northwest Face
A Cheshire classic and one of the longest‑running climbing centres in the region. Housed inside a converted church, The Northwest Face in Warrington offers a huge range of roped climbing – lead, top‑rope, 8 auto-belays – plus a recently expanded 100 square metre bouldering area, now across 2 floors.
It’s ideal for mileage, technique training, or anyone wanting to progress their rope skills. Parking is available onsite, and the centre includes a café and shop for all your climbing related purchases!
Further info: northwestface.com
Substation Macclesfield
A newer addition to Cheshire’s indoor climbing scene, Substation Macclesfield is a stylish, modern bouldering centre with a strong community vibe. Expect well‑set problems, training areas, yoga classes, and a café that partners with local suppliers – think locally roasted coffee beans and locally sourced sourdough bread – yum!
It’s a great option for climbers in the east of the county and a solid alternative to trekking into Manchester or Stockport.
Further info: substation.co.uk
Helsby Hill
One of Cheshire’s most iconic outdoor climbing spots, Helsby Hill offers a mix of trad routes and top‑roping options on soft, characterful sandstone. The climbing is technical and rewarding, but the rock is fragile when wet – so avoid climbing after rain unless you enjoy breaking holds and being glared at by the locals. The views across the Mersey estuary are worth the trip alone.
Limited bouldering and some traversing is possible on the top tier of the crag, which is just below the summit trig point. The main climbing action happens on the lower tiers of the crag, located above the village of Helsby.
For bouldering park at the Helsby Quarry car park (postcode: WA6 9PT), the summit is signed – head up the road opposite the car park and through woodland up to the summit, an approx 10 min walk. To access the main crag park in Helsby village and walk/scramble up the hillside.
Further details: ukclimbing.com
Frodsham Woods (Bouldering)
A sprawling sandstone bouldering area hidden amongst in the woods above Frodsham. Expect traverses, crimps, slopers, and dynos. The problems are varied and surprisingly good once you a) find them, and b) learn the style.
Limited parking is available near the memorial on Bellemonte Road, with several access paths leading down into the woods. Bring a brush and bouldering mat – you’ll use both!
Similar to Helsby Hill, the views from the summit of Frodsham Hill whilst somewhat industrial are sublime!
Further Info: ukclimbing.com
Harmers Wood (Bouldering)
Harmers Wood is a small but charming sandstone bouldering venue near Helsby. The problems are short, technical, and perfect for a quick session or a relaxed day out. The woodland setting gives it a peaceful vibe, and the rock dries reasonably quickly compared to other sandstone spots. Needs to be dry !
Parking is limited, so be considerate. The area is managed by a community trust, so treat it with respect.
Further details: harmerswood.org / ukclimbing.com
Pex Hill Quarry
Pex Hill is a disused quarry on the Cheshire border with Merseyside. The tall vertical sandstone walls are home to a plethora of problems and routes, mostly up to 10 metres.
Renowned for its small holds, the climbing here is technical and requires a ‘fingery’ climbing style not suited to all. Many locals solo the routes however top-roping is recommended as the exposed near vertical faces allow little margin for error. The quarry is owned by United Utilities, see the link below for the latest guidance including anchor placement. As with all sandstone, avoid climbing when wet.
Access via a road (look for the old green gate posts) opposite Cronton College, parking (limited) appears to be tolerated at Leighton Observatory, access the crag via the pedestrian gate.
Further details: ukclimbing.com
Hazards
It goes without saying only climb within your capabilities and with a competent climbing partner – things can go wrong very quickly when out climbing. If in doubt seek out a professional instructor/climbing guide/climbing club etc.
Remember – we cannot highlight all potential hazards when out in the great outdoors. Safety is ultimately down to you. Educate yourself in safety, weather reports, navigation and equipment specific to the activity you intend to undertake and conditions/terrain you may encounter! Check out adventuresmart.uk for general outdoor safety considerations – and activity specific guidance for hill walking, paddle boarding, mountain biking and open water swimming.
