- Due to current social distancing measures, it won’t be practically possible for us to give 1:1 training, or the level of supervision we might usually give to newer climbers. We will try to make meets as accommodating as possible to new members, as long as we have enough competent lead climbers/belayers to safely run the meet!
Climbing
We’ll base ourselves out of Battleship Back Cliff on Portland with plenty of amenable climbing on the nearby Veranda, Battleship Block and Battleship Edge
Depending on numbers, we may split the group between crags to limit our impact.
We’ll meet at the cliff top at 10am (map & directions below)
There is a short walk and a rope-assisted scramble down into the crag so please wear suitable footwear
Equipment required
You should be looking to take the following:
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Climbing gear – harness, helmet, shoes are essential, plus of course quickdraws/ropes/sport cleaning kit if you’re planning to lead.
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The club has a limited supply of gear available for members to borrow here, please request in advance!
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Walking/approach shoes
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Waterproofs/windproofs (it can surprisingly windy even if sunny)
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Personal first aid kit
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Personal food & drink
Travel & Parking
Parking is often a contentious issue on Portland – please be considerate and avoid parking directly outside of houses. Recommended parking spots (according to UKC):
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Reap Lane, just South of Weston. Drive through Weston to a small roundabout and turn right into Reap Lane. Park near the second traffic-calming installation. Follow a wide track behind houses and go right at the crossroads. Follow the track, past farm buildings, to the cliff-top path.
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Blacknor Cliffs Climbers pay & display car park (google maps). There is a short walk to the cliff top and South to the access route for this crag
We’ll meet on the cliff top path above the crag, at the end of the path from Reap Lane at 10am (arrow on map below!)
If you’re arriving late or indeed early, further directions to the crag can be found on UKC.
Please check for current guidance relating to car sharing etc.
Be mindful
As well as parking responsibly, please ensure you take any litter with you and feel free to pick up any you see!
We are very lucky that the bolts & anchors we rely on are maintained by a dedicated team of volunteers at the Dorset Bolt Fund. If you enjoy your trip, please consider donating to them, or even helping out at their next bolting session.
If you have any questions about this meet please let us know, otherwise, enjoy the climbing!!!