The jury seems to be out on who invented the artificial climbing wall. King Leopold III of Belgium? Or folk at Schurman Rock, just outside Seattle, in 1939? Skip forward 30 years or so, though, and Britain lays claim to the first modern-style setup after a University of Leeds lecturer stuck bits of rock into a campus corridor wall. Suffice to say, the sport has found increasing favour across the UK since, and has never been so popular as it is right now. Rock Over Climbing in Sharston, which opened in 2023, is Rock Over Climbing’s newest centre and is up there with the finest indoor facilities you’ll find.
Situated in Sharston next to the M56/M60 junction as well as a bus stop for Manchester city centre, it is incredibly well located for ease of access. The venue is the newest and one of the largest indoor climbing centres in the North West, with over 250 climbs available for all abilities. Relax after the climb and enjoy a drink in the café lounge afterwards next to a huge log burner.In addition to freestyle, Rock Over Climbing also offers a large number of specific classes and coaching options, catering to different needs, abilities and interests.
Whether you’re an experienced climber looking to socialise with others or a newbie who just wants to conquer a few fears, there really is something here for everyone. The staff are ultra-friendly too, just as willing to talk with experts as explain what a Trace Eight is to a complete novice.