The 10 best rock climbing spots in Newcastle to power up your moves
If skydiving feels too intense for your thrill level, don’t worry. Rock climbing delivers the adrenaline without leaving the ground entirely. It’s a great way to challenge your strength and fear of heights while staying safely harnessed.
Indoor or outdoor, bouldering or wall climbing, Newcastle has plenty of spots—and even more nearby—for beginners and seasoned climbers to test their grip.
So if you’re up for an adventure that’s one part workout and one part “look at me go,” rock climbing around Newcastle might just rock your world—pun intended.
1. The Valley Climbing Centre
Media credit: climbvalley
Website: https://ouseburn.co.uk/directory/the-valley-climbing-centre/
Location: Quality Row, Byker, NE6 1NW
Contact: +44 191 265 5775
Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 7 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 9 AM – 8 PM
Pricing: ££
This is Climb Newcastle’s flagship and biggest venue, set inside a former industrial warehouse in Byker. It’s got over 900 square metres of bouldering, with every wall shape imaginable, from slabby slabs to burly roof sections.
We like how the space flows between training boards, chill-out zones, and steep comp-style blocs. It’s also where they host casual comps, adult improver classes, and frequent social events for local climbers.
They’ve even got a dedicated kids’ area and short walls for beginners, making it family-friendly without compromising intensity. And if you’re seriously training, there’s a MoonBoard, campus board, and loads of hangboards, too.
They regularly update the routes, and you’ll find something fresh nearly every week. Plus, there’s plenty of free parking nearby and easy Metro access.
Pro Tip:
Head over during off-peak hours and ask for the Multi-Venue Saver Pass. You’ll get discounted access to The Valley and The Pool on the same day, so you can climb twice as much without paying double.
2. Sunderland Wall
Media credit: sunderlandwall
Website: https://sunderlandwall.com/
Location: Doxford Works, Pallion Quay, Sunderland SR4 6TQ
Contact: 0191 514 4234
Hours:
- Monday: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Tuesday to Friday: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 10 AM – 7 PM
Pricing: ££
This place has something most venues lack: real height. With walls reaching up to 23 metres and both lead and top rope routes, it’s ideal for climbers working on endurance or rope skills.
It’s not just vertical climbing; a tunnel-style bouldering cave is tucked underneath. This cave offers a great mix of steep overhangs and challenging footwork. The transition from rope to boulder here feels natural.
We were also impressed by the number of auto-belays, perfect for solo sessions without needing a belay partner. Their dynamic route-setting style pushes route-readers to get creative.
However, it’s not entirely located in Newcastle, but rather a 30-40 minute drive or train ride from Newcastle city centre.
Pro Tip:
Sunderland Wall offers lead climbing tags for free after passing their on-site assessment, unlike many gyms that charge an additional fee.
3. Rock Antics
Media credit: rockantics
Website: https://rockantics.co.uk/
Location: Unit K, Longlands Rd, Middlesbrough TS4 2JY
Contact: +44 1642 232236
Hours:
- Monday and Friday: 1 PM- 9 PM
- Tuesday to Thursday: 1 PM – 9:30 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM – 7 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 5 PM
Pricing: ££
This climbing gym is located 52 minutes to an hour away from Newcastle upon Tyne. It’s inside a repurposed Edwardian bathhouse that has a vintage charm. The high ceilings and arched windows make every route feel dramatic.
Unlike some bouldering-only centres, Rock Antics balances things with solid lead and top rope offerings. The bouldering room is compact but well-set, with thoughtful movement-style problems that reward technique.
They’ve got a loyal community and a bit of an old-school climbing vibe: friendly, unpretentious, and route-focused. It’s also where some of the North East’s youth squads train, so you know the quality’s there.
There’s no high-end café or merch shop here, just great walls, reliable holds, and helpful staff who remember your name.
Pro Tip:
If you pre-register online, they offer free full-kit rentals (harness, shoes, chalk, belay) on your first visit. This is ideal for travellers or casual climbers who want to try climbing without paying extra for gear.
4. Durham Climbing Centre
Media credit: courtneys.climbin
Website: https://www.durhamclimbingcentre.co.uk/
Location: St John’s Rd, Meadowfield, Durham DH7 8TZ
Contact: 0191 378 9555
Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 8:30 AM – 6 PM
Pricing: ££
Durham Climbing Centre is a pure bouldering spot with a mellow vibe and low-pressure atmosphere. The walls are lower than average, but the problems are cleverly set and constantly updated.
What we like best is their thoughtful layout: the kids’ corner, training wall, and central area with dynamic comp-style features are all split out. This makes it easy to pick your zone and go at your own pace.
They’ve been pushing inclusivity too, with special sessions for climbers with autism or sensory needs, plus regular women’s socials and kids’ lessons. It feels like a gym that truly wants everyone to feel welcome.
There’s no café, but you’ll find water and snacks. Plenty of staff are happy to chat or recommend routes.
Pro Tip:
Ask for the “Climb & Chill” pass if you’re with family. It includes entry for one adult and one child at a cheaper rate. Plus, access to the cosy reading and colouring nook while the kids climb safely under supervision.
5. Eden Rock Carlisle
Media credit: edenrockclimbing
Website: https://www.edenrockclimbing.com/
Location: Benfield Business Park, NE6 4NQ
Contact: 01915 241 533
Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 10 AM – 8 PM
Pricing: ££
Eden Rock is one of the UK’s premier bouldering destinations. It’s often the weekend day trip of choice for Northeast climbers. You’ll see why when you walk in, it’s absolutely massive.
There’s a giant overhang tunnel, a super-slab wall, and endless volumes that cater to every body type and style. And because they’re known for elite route-setting, every hold feels intentional, not just randomly thrown on.
They even have a competition training area with tension boards and a slab-only circuit that punishes poor footwork (in a good way). It’s the place to go if you’re stuck in a V3–V5 plateau and want to push past it.
You’ll find a cute café inside with fresh bakes and strong coffee, plus a gear shop with chalk, shoes, and skin repair creams. The kind of place you spend four hours without realising.
Pro Tip:
There’s a free beginner technique class every Tuesday at 6 PM that isn’t promoted online—just ask the staff when you arrive. You’ll get coached movement tips from one of their setters without paying extra.
6. Hadrian Leisure Centre
Media credit: simonroffe
Website: https://my.northtyneside.gov.uk/category/258/hadrian-leisure-centre
Location: St Peter’s Rd, Wallsend, NE28 7LQ
Contact: 0191 643 2025
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 7:15 AM – 10 PM
- Friday: 7:15 AM – 9 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 8:15 AM – 6 PM
Pricing: ££
This isn’t your typical climbing gym. It’s part of a local leisure complex; the wall is fairly basic. But for casual climbers or first-timers, it offers an easy, accessible way to try top-roping.
The wall is around 8 metres high and has colour-coded routes and auto-belays, which makes it great for families or people who want to climb without needing a belay partner.
We wouldn’t come here for high-grade climbing, but it’s ideal if you’re looking to combine a short climb with swimming, gym, or a fitness class. Multisport under one roof!
It’s run by Active North Tyneside, so booking is required, and time slots are limited to certain hours each week. It’s also very budget-friendly.
Pro Tip:
Since this is a leisure centre, you can combine a 1-hour climb with a gym or swim session, and if you book both at reception, they’ll waive the locker rental and give you a towel for free.
7. Newcastle Climbing Centre
Media credit: newcastleclimbingcentre
Website: https://www.newcastleclimbingcentre.co.uk/
Location: Church House, St Marks House, 285 Shields Rd, NE6 2UQ
Contact: +44 191 265 6060
Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 10 AM – 9 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 9 AM – 6:30 PM
Pricing: ££
Inside a stunning converted church, this venue has the energy of a “climbing cathedral”—seriously, the walls are lit by stained glass. It’s also the city’s main roped climbing hub, and it’s gorgeous.
They offer top rope, lead, auto-belay routes, and a modest bouldering area. Great for both casual climbers and those preparing for outdoor sport seasons.
Their coaching team is particularly strong. We spotted group courses, instructor training, and “Learn to Lead” classes running even on weekdays. There are many kids and school groups, so the vibe is always lively.
It’s just a few minutes from the city centre, and while parking is limited, it’s well served by bus and metro routes. You’ll want to bring your snacks, though, as there’s no café.
Pro Tip:
The auto-belay routes are tucked away behind the main lead wall and are not visible from the front desk. Many walk past without knowing they exist.
8. Clip ‘n Climb Metrocentre
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Website: https://clipnclimbmetrocentre.namcofunscape.com/
Location: 39 Garden Walk, Metrocentre, Gateshead NE11 9XY
Contact: 0191 500 2140
Hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 11 AM – 8 PM
- Friday: 11 AM – 9 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM- 9 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM – 8 PM
Pricing: ££
This isn’t a climbing gym in the traditional sense; it’s a climbing adventure for families, kids, and fun-loving adults. Located in Metrocentre, it’s bright, safe, and energetic.
You’ll find over 25 themed climbs here, including a speed wall, a timed maze, and a space-themed tower. It’s all auto-belay, and staff are always around to help.
It’s also great for parties, school groups, and nervous first-timers. Adults can still get a proper arm pump if they give it their all.
It’s clean, well-managed, and perfectly paired with a lunch or cinema visit right after. Just a heads-up: bookings tend to fill up quickly on weekends, so plan ahead.
Pro Tip:
If you’re arriving early or planning to shop after, use the free lockers in the nearby Metrocentre food court. They keep your gear safe without charging £1 for on-site storage and are just a two-minute walk away.
9. Rockcity Climbing
Media credit: rockcityclimbinggym
Location: Hawthorn Ave, Hull HU3 5GL, United Kingdom
Hours:
- Monday to Friday: 9:30 AM – 10:30 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 9:30 AM – 7 PM
Pricing: ££
We’ll admit this one’s a trek from Newcastle, but it’s possibly the best indoor climbing complex in Northern England. Rockcity is huge and covers bouldering, top-rope, lead climbing, and a world-class competition wall.
Their main bouldering hall features comp-style volumes, dynamic dynos, slabs, and even campus-led routes for those working on power moves. What made our jaws drop was the IFSC-standard lead wall—rare in the UK.
One of their highlights is the “Bloc Room,” dedicated to training and coordination-style problems typically seen in international comps.
They also have an in-house gear shop and café, serving vegan cakes and protein smoothies, making it easy to spend a whole day here. You can even join outdoor trips through their community notice board.
Pro Tip:
If you’re travelling in a group of 3 or more, book the “Family & Friends Pass” online. It offers 25% off the total entry fee and includes a complimentary shoe rental for each person, regardless of relationship.
10. Big Rock Hub
Media credit: mattnicgolfm
Website: https://www.bigrockclimbing.com/
Location: Mandeville Dr, Kingston, Milton Keynes MK10 0AG
Contact: 01908 583 128
Hours:
- Monday to Friday (except Wednesday): 2:30 PM- 10 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM – 10 PM
- Saturday and Sunday: 9 AM – 6 PM
Pricing: ££
This one really deserves a shout for serious lead climbers on a UK climbing tour. Big Rock Hub is designed for tall lead routes, some of which are up to 14m, and proper stamina testing.
Their auto-belay walls feature long juggy routes, which are great for endurance laps or solo training. But what stood out was their dynamic comp-style bouldering zone filled with tension-based problems.
They also host monthly coaching clinics for climbers to break past grade plateaus. Whether it’s learning to clip more efficiently or training for redpointing, these sessions feel like personal coaching.
What surprised us was the comfort factor: good lighting, air flow, big windows, and a café upstairs made it feel like a place you’d want to stay for hours. It’s very non-intimidating for a lead-focused facility.
Pro Tip:
Every Friday after 6 PM, they run an “Extended Climb” slot, where you get 3 hours for the price of 2. Their café also offers 20% off food prices in the last hour.