UKC

Climbs 39
Rocktype Limestone
Altitude 217m a.s.l
Faces W

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Alien at Downholme © Andysomething

Crag features

Small Limestone Quarry in a pleasant secluded setting with splendid views across Arkengarthdale. Routes up to 10 meters, with some polish on the classic cracklines. Very convenient climbing, level top and bottom, stake belays (old, caution). Sometimes used by the military and groups. Some holds still prone to flake-off! (though most dodgy ones already gone).

Approach notes

Easy access - In Downholme village; 2 minutes through a field behind the Bolton Arms car park. There are signs indicating that MOD permission is required, but a discreet approach works for the locals who climb here.

Restricted Access

Statement from the owner:

 

Please note this is a naturally weathered quarry feature, which is neither inspected nor maintained.  A Dynamic Risk Assessment must be conducted before each use – in practice this means all climbers should visually assess the stability of the rock and the area around it, in the area they intend to climb. All climbers, especially those intending to lead or set up belays should inspect and carefully assess any fixed equipment prior to use on routes or as part of a belay. The user uses the facility at their own risk.

Updated arrangements for using the crag were confirmed in October 2023. Individuals wishing to use the crag must ring the Bookings Office on 01748 875507 to ensure the quarry is available.

The obvious undercut on Sweet Please is loose about 2 foot below the peg. There's other holds around.
Emilio Bachini - 17/Sep/16
New crampon scratches on several routes and some newly exposed bits of rock. Someone doesn't know the ethics.
johnjb - 03/Jul/16
I rang the number to see about climbing here and they basically said they are only allowing groups due to insurance etc. Maybe it's needed for the BMC to look into this.
Frankie boy - 03/Jul/14
Updated, based on layout and grades in Steve Crowes North East England Guide (2003); plus a few more recent additions to the crag.
Climbster - 18/Dec/13
Visited today (Sept 2nd '13); walked around but didn't climb. There appears to have been a rock fall fairly recently, in the middle area. Didn't think to take a picture though (sorry!). Sign still present asking to call before climbing. Some stakes now looking very suspect and feel very loose.
NobbyClark - 02/Sep/13
Visited in May 2013. There is a sign on the gate saying no unauthorised climbing and a phone number to ring but we just went in anyway. didn't have time to climb so just went for a look at traversed the base of the crag. Definitely going back to climb soon.
lissymanners - 13/May/13
Currently Catterick Training are not allowing climbing until they "have sorted out issues over liability and insurance". I have contacted the BMC to inform them of this and they will be contacting the MOD to check up on the current situation.
Matt Bill Platypus - 18/Jun/10
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