Frequently Asked Questions

When do you open? / What is your launch date?
We are working hard to open as soon as we can. All we can say for now is that we expect to be open early Summer 2025.
We have the climbing walls and initial routes in place, but are still working to make the rest of the building a safe and comfortable environment for climbers.

What are the rules?
Please see Gym Rules and Code of Conduct.
These rules apply to everybody, including staff.
What are your opening hours?
This is still being determined and subject to change, but we expect to be open early enough to facilitate clients climbing before work and into the evenings.
Is there parking available? / Can I get there by public transport or bike?
Bike racks are available on site.
There is abundant on-street parking on Hattam St. We have very few dedicated parking spots, so expect to park on the street most of the time.

What are your prices? / Do you offer casual entry, 10-visit passes, or memberships?
Pricing will be announced closer to our launch date.
There will be casual entry, multi-visit passes, and recurring memberships.
Do you have student, concession, or family discounts?
TBD
Do memberships include extras (guest passes, gear hire, classes)?
TBD
Can I put my membership on hold if I go away or get injured?
TBD

Is it suitable for beginners? / Do I need prior experience?
Climbing is a very approachable sport and it is our intent to always have a full range of difficulties in our routes, whether it’s your first climb or surpassing your personal best.
What age groups can climb?
Climbers must be 8+ years old. Climbers younger than 12 will require adult supervision at all times unless one of our climbing coaches has signed off.
Do I need to book ahead or can I just walk in?
Individuals and small groups do not need to book ahead. For larger groups (10+), inquiring ahead is advisable.
Do you run classes, coaching, or intro sessions?
The details of this are still being ironed out, but we do intend to offer all of these in the long run.
Do you cater for school groups, parties, or corporate events?
Yes, but we advise making arrangements ahead of time. Group events may be limited to certain non-peak hours.

How safe is bouldering?
Bouldering is one of the safest forms of climbing. There are no ropes or harnesses—just low walls (usually 3–4 metres high) and thick, padded flooring designed to absorb falls. Most falls are controlled and from low heights.
We’ll show you how to land safely when you visit, and our staff are always on hand to help.
Do I need a harness or rope?
No harnesses or ropes are required—just climbing shoes, which you can rent if you don’t have your own. Chalk is optional and available to rent or purchase.
What should I wear? / Do I need special shoes?
Flexible, comfortable clothes. The walls and holds have an abrasive texture so wearing something hardy is advised. Climbing requires special climbing shoes, which we provide for hire.
Do you rent climbing shoes and chalk?
Climbing shoes and chalk are available for rent for an additional fee.
Is there a waiver I need to sign? / Do kids need parental consent?
Yes and yes.
Do you have change rooms, lockers, or showers?
We do have change rooms and showers!
Do you have towels available?
You will need to bring your own towel if you wish to use the showers.
Do you provide lockers?
There are cubbies to store bags and shoes but no lockable options. We suggest leaving valuables at home or keep your bag close to where you are climbing (but off the mats at all times).
Do you sell drinks, snacks, or coffee on site?
That is the plan!

What grading system do you use? / How hard are the climbs?
The difficulty of each route is indicated by the colour of tag on the starting holds. In order of ascending difficulty, these colours are:
- Yellow (easiest; V0/V1)
- Green
- Blue
- Purple
- Red
- White
- Black (V10+)
Additionally, we have a “joker” colour (Orange) to indicate a mystery difficulty.
How often do you set new routes/problems?
TBD
Do you run competitions, leagues, or social nights?
Not yet, but stay tuned! Sign up for mailing list using the contact page.
Do you offer training facilities (hangboards, campus boards, weights)?
We have hangboards, a Moonboard (2024 edition), and weights.
Is there space for warming up or stretching?
Yes, upstairs.
Can I bring non-climbing friends to hang out?
All visitors must pay to enter the climbing area, but can sit in the reception area for a coffee.

Is the gym wheelchair accessible? / Do you support adaptive climbing?
Most of the gym is wheelchair accessible, with the exception of the upstairs training area. There is an accessible toilet & shower and there is a section of our walls equipped with auto-belay systems to support some adaptive needs.
I've never climbed before—is that ok?
Absolutely! We welcome and encourage climbers of all experience and fitness levels.
What’s your policy on inclusivity and safe space?
We want The Hold to be a safe space for all individuals no matter their background or lifestyle. We expect all climbers in our community to treat everyone in our space with respect and dignity. Individuals who make others feel unwelcome or unsafe will be required to leave at staff members’ request.
If you do not feel safe or respected in our space, please raise this with our staff.

Can I bring my own chalk and shoes?
Yes
Can I bring my dog / pram / baby?
Yes, with conditions.
Dogs and young children, including babies, must be supervised at all times, kept off all padded matting, and guardians must attend promptly to any messes or accidents caused.
Further, dogs must be kept on leash.
If a dog or child is disruptive (e.g. noise), you may be asked to take them outside, so as to avoid dangerous distractions to climbers on the wall.
Do you have Wi-Fi?
Yes. Ask a staff member for details.
Do you sell climbing gear (shoes, chalk, brushes)?
Yes
Can I volunteer or get involved in route setting?
Please use the contact form to get involved.

The Hold