— Sport Climbing meet on the Isle of Portland —
The climbing on Portland is predominantly sport climbing with routes across all the grades plus a fair amount of bouldering, so there is something for everyone including beginners (see photo below for IMCers on possibly the most picturesque 3c route in the UK). The climbing is mostly on non-tidal sea cliffs, without abseil approaches. There is also trad climbing not too far away in Swanage (probably not beginner-friendly due to abseil approaches and harder grades), if those are your preference.
We’re planning on staying at the same campsite as in previous years, Martleaves Farm. Prices look to be £18 per night per person for a tent or £14 per person for 2 people sharing a tent. You’ll need to book online in advance via the website at
If you have a campervan you’re best emailing since the hardstanding pitches appear to be booked up.
info@weymouthcampingandcaravanpark.co.uk
We will also plan to have our usual Saturday night group meal out at a pub/restaurant.
For anyone new to sport climbing who would like to come on the trip, as a minimum you will need to be a competent lead belayer (or climb in a 3 with someone who is), and someone in your pair or trio will need to be a competent lead climber (with rope and quickdraws – 60m rope and minimum 14 quickdraws recommended). For those who haven’t done sport climbing before, it is much the same as leading indoors except for having to thread the anchor at the top in order to lower off.
Portland is always a fun meet in a lovely seaside setting (see photo below) plus the weather is always* sunny there! So if you are interested in this meet, let me know.
If you are looking for a climbing partner or a lift (or can offer lifts), we can put people in contact.