Everytime I go to this wall I vow never to go back. Each time the wall building gets better but the holds and route setting is appalling. Grades are all over the place. 6b's that are impossible and 7b+ which are easy. The new lead wall looks great but uses their terrible holds (copies of other holds or boring large slopers) and unrealistic grades. This could sound like severe moaning but as I'm injured at the moment I rely on a decent idea of grading. I don't expect to struggle on sub 7a routes or boulders, yet here they are either awfully set or so under graded it shows a complete lack of thought. The new holds are painful. The setting is poor even when on grade. I'll drive to York (45 mins) rather than 5 mins to here.
It just goes to show that holds and setting are the most important part of a wall. Very poor
Advanced wall.
Just moved from leeds. I'm impressed with the size, and am enjoying the climbs. The bouldering is a bit brutal though. Easiest climbs involve sit starts, difficult smears and powerfull one arm moves. I would love to bring some of my colleagues for a climb but the bouldering is not suitable for beginners. Also silent and no ventilation, a little hostile compared to other walls I've used. There is alot of renovation currently so I hope it will get more accessible once it's done.
Users should be aware that under 18s are prohibited from belaying unsupervised (ie with a registered over 18 member holding the end of the belay). The staff offer no checks on belaying ability, this is a blanket ban regardless of how experiened the under 18 person is.
Visited Rockcity for the first time yesterday. I was hugely impressed. There are a vast number of routes to suit all abilities and the main overhanging wall is great for building strength and stamina. The staff were very friendly and took the time to give a guided tour. I liked the 'pop quiz' before you were given your membership card. The shop is well stocked with lots of tempting shiney gear. One draw back is the lack of cafe. Maybe the balcony bouldering area could find an alternative use.... Overall, will definately go back lots.
I've just discovered Rockcity and I have to say that I'm mightily impressed! On first visiting the centre you will find the staff helpful and welcoming. It has a friendly atmosphere which helps put the "first time" climber at ease. The facilities are good and there's plenty of equipment available to hire. The walls are superb with plenty of different routes for climbers of different abilities.
Well worth a visit!
Special thanks to Sam and Beckey for being absolute stars and making sure that we had a really good time :-)