Shared Climbing Experience in Dartmoor
If you’re looking to add a bit of adventure to your trip to Plymouth, this shared climbing session on Dartmoor promises a memorable vertical journey. Offered by Rock The Boat Activities, this tour combines expert guidance with stunning outdoor scenery, making it a wonderful choice for beginners and seasoned climbers alike. With a focus on safety and fun, the guides help you explore Dartmoor’s renowned climbing spots, all within a relaxed group setting.
What stands out most about this experience are the knowledgeable guides who are passionate about climbing and outdoor safety. They make the whole process approachable, whether you’re new to rock climbing or already familiar with indoor gyms. I also appreciate how flexible the location is—since the venues are chosen based on weather and group needs, no two trips are quite the same, keeping the experience fresh.
One aspect to consider is the cost of rock shoes which is not included in the price. If you’re an avid climber or want to stick with your own footwear, bringing your own shoes might be worthwhile. Also, with a maximum group size of just six, this tour offers plenty of personal attention but might feel a bit intimate for those who prefer larger group dynamics.
This climbing experience offers genuine value for those eager to try outdoor rock climbing with professional support. It’s a fantastic way to enjoy Dartmoor’s dramatic landscapes without needing prior outdoor climbing experience, as long as you’re ready for a physical challenge.
Key Points / Takeaways
- Expert Guides: Guides with over 20 years of combined experience focus on safe, fun, and educational outdoor climbing.
- Flexible Venues: Locations are chosen on the day based on weather and group ability, ensuring a tailored experience.
- All Skill Levels Welcome: Whether you’ve never climbed outside or are a gym veteran, guides share their knowledge and techniques.
- Top Rope Climbing & Bouldering: The session mainly involves top rope climbing, with some opportunities for bouldering, depending on conditions.
- Inclusive Equipment: Harness and helmet are provided, but you’ll need to bring or rent your own rock shoes if desired.
- Small Group Size: Limited to six participants for personalized guidance and safety.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Plymouth.
Entering Dartmoor’s Climbing Realm: What to Expect
The experience kicks off at dewerstone in Princetown, where you’ll meet your guides and gear up. The guides are friendly and eager to share their expertise—this really enhances the experience, especially if you’re new to outdoor climbing. From there, you’ll head out to a Dartmoor climbing venue, which varies depending on the weather and group ability, ensuring you get the best conditions possible.
Once at the crag, your guide will set up all safety gear—harnesses, helmets, and ropes—so you can focus on the fun. They are more than happy to explain everything, making sure you understand the safety procedures. Most of the session involves top rope climbing, which is a safe and controlled way to get comfortable on the rock. If conditions permit, your guide might introduce you to some bouldering as well, giving you a taste of outdoor climbing beyond the gym.
The guides are passionate climbers, eager to share their love of Dartmoor’s crags and natural beauty. They’re also happy to adapt the session to your experience level, whether you’re a complete beginner or have climbed extensively indoors. As one reviewer noted, the staff are “very knowledgeable,” which makes a huge difference in feeling confident and safe on the rocks.
The location—Dartmoor’s rugged granite crags—offers stunning views that are worth the effort. Climbing outdoors gives you a sense of achievement that indoor gyms just can’t match. The natural rock, variable holds, and fresh air make for an authentic experience that’s both challenging and rewarding.
The Value of Guided Outdoor Climbing
At $55 for roughly three hours, this tour offers a lot of bang for your buck, especially considering all equipment is provided. The guides take care of all the safety setup, so you don’t need prior outdoor climbing experience or worry about logistics. Plus, the small group size means plenty of individual attention, which is particularly reassuring if you’re new to climbing outdoors.
What makes this experience stand out is the personalized approach. The guides assess the group’s abilities and weather conditions to choose the most suitable climbing spot, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience. This flexibility is rare in larger commercial tours, which often stick to fixed itineraries.
In the reviews, visitors appreciated the guides’ friendliness and knowledge—one wrote they wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this group for anyone interested in climbing or paddleboarding. Their enthusiasm is contagious, and many left feeling inspired and eager to climb again.
While the price doesn’t include rock shoes, bringing your own or renting them locally is an option. For those serious about climbing, this adds just a small additional cost but can make a noticeable difference in comfort and performance.
The Best Audience for This Tour
This climbing experience suits a wide range of travelers. If you’re curious about outdoor rock climbing but don’t know where to start, the guides’ structured, safe approach is perfect. It’s also great for those who want a quick taste of Dartmoor’s natural crags without committing to a multi-day climb or expensive course.
The outdoor setting and physical nature of the activity make it ideal for active travelers who enjoy a challenge. Families with older children, groups of friends, or solo adventurers will all find value here. However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed, sightseeing-focused tour, this might not be the best fit.
Participants should be comfortable with basic physical activity and prepared for some exertion, as climbing outdoors requires strength, balance, and a bit of grit. But even absolute beginners can enjoy the session, thanks to the guides’ supportive approach.
Price and Logistics
At $55 for a 3-hour experience, this tour offers good value, especially considering all safety equipment is included. The meeting point at dewerstone in Princetown is accessible, with public transportation nearby, making it easy to reach. The activity ends back at the same spot, so there’s no fuss with transport logistics.
Since the venue varies depending on weather, you might find yourself at different crags each time, which keeps the experience fresh. The session’s flexibility means you’re more likely to have good climbing conditions, which can be a gamble at outdoor sites.
Booking is straightforward, with confirmation received immediately. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the session, providing some flexibility if weather or plans change.
Final Thoughts: Who Should Sign Up?
This Dartmoor climbing session is a fantastic option for those looking to try outdoor rock climbing in a safe, guided environment. It offers a perfect blend of adventure, expert instruction, and scenic beauty. The small group size ensures personalized attention, and the knowledgeable guides make all the difference in building confidence on the rocks.
It’s especially suitable for beginners or those new to outdoor climbing who want a supportive introduction. However, even experienced indoor climbers will enjoy the chance to connect with Dartmoor’s natural granite walls under professional supervision.
If you crave a physically active, authentically outdoor activity that leaves you with a real sense of achievement, this climbing experience is well worth considering during your visit to Plymouth or Dartmoor.
FAQ
Is this experience suitable for beginners?
Yes, guides tailor the session to all skill levels, making it accessible for first-time outdoor climbers with no prior experience needed.
What equipment is included?
Harnesses and helmets are provided. You will need to bring your own rock shoes or rent them locally.
How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, giving enough time for safety briefings, climbing, and enjoying the scenery.
Where does the tour start?
Meet at dewerstone in Princetown, off Tavistock Road. The activity ends back at the same location.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.
Is transportation included?
Transportation to the climbing venue is not provided but the meeting point is accessible by public transport.
How many people are in each group?
A maximum of 6 travelers ensures a more personal, guided experience.
Would this be a good gift for a friend?
Absolutely! It’s a fun, adventurous gift that offers a taste of outdoor climbing with professional support.
This shared climbing experience on Dartmoor offers genuine value, expert guidance, and a chance to connect with nature in a memorable way. Whether you’re a beginner or just eager for some outdoor action, it’s a worthwhile addition to your trip plan.