Climb sea cliffs with the waves coming in below you. Pembrokeshire's limestone crags have some of the best outdoor climbing in the UK, and the views aren't bad either.
Climbers have known about Pembrokeshire for a long time, but it's still pretty quiet compared with the big-name areas. The county's sea cliffs, particularly the limestone crags around Stackpole, Lydstep and Bosherston, have hundreds of routes, from beginner-friendly slabs to steep overhangs, with the Atlantic right below you. There aren't many places in the UK where you can climb with seabirds nesting next to you and seals bobbing about in the water underneath.
A guided session is the easiest way to get on it. Your instructor will set up top-rope climbs on routes that suit your ability, look after all the safety kit and coach you on technique as you go. You don't need any previous climbing experience. Complete beginners are welcome and will be on real rock within minutes. For those with experience, the instructor can push you onto more challenging lines and help develop your outdoor climbing skills.
The rock here is really good: clean, featured limestone with positive holds and plenty of variety. Routes go from gentle slabs (ideal for children and nervous first-timers) up to steep, technical walls and exposed arêtes. Sessions typically last 3–4 hours, which gives you time to try several routes at different grades and get a proper feel for outdoor climbing. It's very different from an indoor wall. There are no coloured holds to follow, so part of the fun is working out where to go next.
Everything you need to know before your climbing session.
Sessions typically run 3–4 hours, giving you time to try multiple routes at different levels.
Small groups of up to 8, with a qualified instructor managing all ropes and safety.
Low to moderate. Climbing is more about technique and balance than brute strength. Anyone can have a go.
Harness, helmet, climbing shoes and all ropes/gear included. Wear comfortable clothes you can move in.
March through November. Spring and autumn are best, when it's cool enough to climb comfortably.
Children aged 7 and over are welcome. Shorter routes and gentler slabs suit young climbers well.
Guided climbing on the sea cliffs of south Pembrokeshire.
Instructor-led climbing on Pembrokeshire's best sea cliffs.
None at all. Sessions are designed for complete beginners through to experienced climbers. Your instructor will choose routes based on your ability and confidence, and coach you through technique. You'll be climbing real rock within minutes of arriving.
Yes. All climbing is top-roped, meaning you're attached to a rope running through an anchor at the top of the route. Your instructor manages the belay (the rope system) so if you slip, you'll only move a few centimetres. All equipment is inspected regularly and meets industry safety standards.
Comfortable clothes you can move in, like leggings or joggers and a t-shirt with layers. Avoid jeans (too restrictive). Climbing shoes are provided. Bring sun cream, water, and a light jacket in case the wind picks up on the cliffs.
Plenty of people who climb are nervous about heights, so you're in good company. Your instructor will start you on shorter, lower-angle routes where the exposure feels manageable. Most people surprise themselves once they start trusting the rope. How high you go is up to you, and nobody will push you further than you want.
Children from age 7 upwards are welcome. There are plenty of shorter, easier routes that suit young climbers. Kids often take to it naturally (being light and fearless helps a lot on rock). Under-18s must have a participating adult in the group.
Light rain doesn't stop climbing, and wet limestone can actually offer decent grip. However, heavy rain, high winds, or electrical storms will mean a postponement. Your provider will contact you in advance if conditions are unsuitable and offer rescheduling or a full refund.
Articles we've written to help you plan your session.
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