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Essex Outdoors
Essex Outdoors

Climbing courses

The perfect climbing experience, whatever your level.

We offer a range of climbing courses and clubs at ‘The Lock’ climbing wall in Harlow. These start with the complete novice and progress on to becoming an experienced top-rope or lead climber. We also offer courses for aspiring climbing instructors.

While safety first is our mantra, everyone will enjoy the thrill of achievement – from juniors to youths to adults. Our skilled professionals make sure that climbing is fun, while also challenging even the most adept climbers.

“Your instructors are truly amazing – thanks to their skills, they provide subtle support and help to ensure that the whole group realise their potential.
A huge thank you from all of us.”


The R J Mitchell Primary School

Adult Climbing Courses

These courses are available to Adults (18+).

Adult ‘give it a go’ sessions

You don’t need any previous experience as our knowledgeable instructors will look after you every step of the way.

Climbing refresher

This is not a full introduction to indoor climbing, but rather a reminder of the skills needed to practice them in a safe environment.

Learn to climb – 1 day

This course is recommended those wishing to start climbing unsupervised as quickly as possible within our centre.

Learn to climb – 2 evenings

An intensive introduction to indoor climbing for ages 14+; focusing on the skills needed to climb independently.

Learn to lead

This course is recommended for people who have previous climbing experience and are looking to gain lead climbing skills.

Bespoke tuition

Book time with one of our knowledgeable climbing instructors who will give you a tailored session to help you gain the skills you need

Family Climbing

Courses and tasters for kids and families

Kids fun climb

A first taste of climbing for under 18’s

Family Climb

Family-friendly climbing sessions – try climbing with your kids, guided by knowledgeable instructors. No experience needed. Perfect for deciding if indoor climbing or bouldering is your family’s thing.

Junior & Youth Climbing Clubs

These clubs are available to both Juniors (7-13 yrs) and Youths (14-17).

Kids fun climb

A first taste of climbing for under 18’s

Youth Learn to climb

An intensive introduction to indoor climbing for ages 14-17; focusing on the skills needed to climb independently.

NICAS level 1 – foundation climber

These entry level sessions, teaches participants basic climbing techniques and the safety skills needed to become a “foundation climber”.

NICAS level 2 – top rope climber

As a “top rope climber” participants will have mastered the basics of indoor climbing and would be expected to operate independently.

NICAS level 3 – technical climber

At this level, participants are taught the more advanced techniques of climbing movement and the use of bouldering walls.

NICAS level 4.1 & 4.2 – lead climber

More advanced skills are introduced at this level to allow participants to become a competent “lead climber”.

Youth Performance Pathway Selection

The YPP for exceptional young climbers, develops advanced climbing skills via personalized coaching and competitions.

Bespoke tuition

Book a session with one of our knowledgeable climbing instructors who will give you a tailored introduction to help you gain the skills you need

Mountain Training NGB Courses

The Lock Climbing Wall is regularly used as an Mountain Training England (MTE) Facility, with training and assessments taking place throughout the year – MTE providers can deliver a range of courses here, including CWI, CWDI, FCA, DCA, BMC FUNdamental’s and NICAS Inductions.

For more information about MTE products, please head to Mountain Training or Contact Our Team