Parthian Climbing Harrogate (Harrogate Climbing Centre)

I have been climbing at Parthian Harrogate since moving across the Pennines from Manchester. At first I was skeptical re the extent to which a smaller gym, in a smaller town, could provide what my city gym did. However, I have been positively overwhelmed by the community feel, route setting and facilities available. You are able to do most types of climbing from lead, bottom rope and bouldering to speed. There is a breadth of variety within each type of climbing - plenty of vertical, slab, overhanging and feature walls. As we're in Yorkshire, it's only fitting that there are some crack climbs, too! There is also a training area with campus boards, circuit boards and rings. It seems they strive to improve and add to their offer whenever possible. Since becoming a member 11 months ago, I have seen the implementation of numerous new finger boards, circuits and even an app that allows you to set your own problems. There are plans to incorporate a traditional gym with weights, etc. ostensibly in the works. Further to this, I think the route setting is exceptional. Despite being smaller than some of their competitors, the frequency of resets means you are highly unlikely to get bored, or find yourself climbing the same projects for months. Setting quality is also top notch. I have been fortunate enough to climb at gyms owned and set by internationally recognised competition climbers and I think the setting at Parthian Harrogate is of the same, high standard. I personally love how route setting is clearly done with Parthian Harrogate's specific context and demographic in mind. Being on the outskirts of the Yorkshire Dales, the gym attracts many people who frequently climb outdoors. The routes and problems resultantly mimic "real" grit and limestone routes to a great extent. I have seen my outdoor climbing improve significantly since climbing at this gym. Lastly, the community feel at this gym is my favourite aspect. Like most gyms, Parthian Harrogate attracts a variety of age groups and ability levels. However, what I think is really special about Parthian Harrogate is the extent to which these different ages and abilities come together. I am incredibly grateful to the older, more experienced climbers who have taken me under their wing and helped me improve since climbing here. I have also felt very welcomed by younger groups and those that climb in conjuction with universities. This is no doubt facilitated by the staff's huge emphasis on creating a friendly and welcoming atmosphere - there is a free, weekly social club and staff frequently conduct "floor walks", during which they are always more than happy to chat and offer a hand.
Apr 14th, 2023

A well managed wall with friendly and experienced staff. The variety of routes (lead, top rope, auto belay, bouldering) and frequency that they are updated is enough for my needs. Beginner classes are great and I've seen how good they are with the groups of children.
Apr 2nd, 2023

Great starter one hour intro lesson for our four year old with teacher Loz (excuse spelling). No gear needed. Will be doing more. Thanks
Nov 20th, 2022

Brilliant day out from Chester. Staff were great - thanks Jo. And thanks to fellow climbers Stuart and Dave. Would come again.
Nov 19th, 2022

Great gym,very friendly and helpful staff :)
Oct 29th, 2022