Climbzone — Attraction in Scotland

I've been to the X centre enough to see what was up there and now my son is older though he would be game. The website booking showed loads of availability throughout the day so I went for a session with a couple of spaces already booked for some encouragement. As it was the place was busy with folk before and after our slot. The 90 minute slot starts at reception and ends at the bottom of the stairs. The staff manage time very well though and try to get everyone round as much as possible. There are smaller regular lockers in the changing space/gear room. They are locked by the instructor and you don't otherwise get to go back to them. Climbing shoes are supplied if you are doing the wall. This is the only equipment you may supply yourself. Harness are provided (textile history/safety etc and loler/puwer). Helmets are not required or expected.

You are attached to the auto belays by the instructor (tripple lock krabs) and are told not to detach yourself etc. The routes are fairly short and vary in grades but undoubtedly are missing the odd hold in places. For adults the pitches are quite close. Children its all fine. The assault course sees you getting a chest harness added back at the changing room. Not optional and again to ensure everyone remains upright in suspension. The course isn't massive but certainly has some exposure despite it's proximity to the building structure. You are on a bomber redundant system so it's all good. The only niggle would be the single point of failure being the instructor clipping everyone in. No buddy checks available as a result. It's screwgates in this system. You get loaded up in a gated space and a suspension check before going near any edges. There is a bus stop system to take people out the closed loop if they aren't feeling it so you won't be stuck behind unwilling punters. Rescue looks to take the form of being pushed back round the rail system (there is a 2nd one available) until back on platform. I think i spotted an evacuation auto belay too. We did this in climbing shoes which is ungainly but acceptable. Other groups were in regular footwear. The drop is well managed once again and our instructor was careful to give everyone equal opportunity as desired. Turns out it wasn't for me as you have to "step off" and my brain won't let me. Not the first time either. Breaking gear fear but not free falling. It's an interesting contraption as it turns out that simulates free fall without the instant stop at the bottom. Great for children! It does have 2 biners on the single line. They aren't back to back. Gates on the same side. You are in fall restraint while going out to the drop despite the full grate rails all round. Probably because the instructor is that single point again so they get a chance to double check before opening the gate. You get to run back up the stairs to do the drop again (in climbing shoes depending on your booking). The staff were great. Elyse was calm and attentive. Others were playing to their audience. Ps. You can have anything that can fall from you to the people below. So no phones or untethered...

Overcoming Fear!

Embarking on a school trip filled with activities like rock climbing and abseiling can be exhilarating for some, but for my daughter, it was nothing short of nerve-wracking. Her anxiety was palpable as she contemplated facing her fear of heights.

In an attempt to ease her apprehension, I took her to Climb Zone, hoping exposure to the climbing environment might alleviate her fears. However, her initial reaction was far from reassuring; she was outright terrified.

Enter Hanna, the instructor who became the catalyst for my daughter's transformation. Sensing Eve's unease, Hanna's compassionate demeanor and unwavering support were immediate. Throughout the session, Hanna remained a constant source of encouragement, fostering a "can-do" attitude that propelled my daughter forward.

Witnessing my once apprehensive daughter conquer the course with newfound confidence was nothing short of extraordinary. Thanks to Hanna's guidance, she not only overcame her fear but embraced the challenge with enthusiasm.

Hanna's impact on my daughter cannot be overstated. Her dedication and support not only transformed a nervous child into a brave adventurer but also instilled in her a newfound sense of courage.

As my daughter eagerly looks forward to future adventures, fueled by her newfound passion, we owe a debt of gratitude to Hanna for her invaluable assistance. Here's to more thrilling adventures at climbzone. Massive thanks Hanna!...

Fantastic staff and facilities. It's great to be able to do a full size climbing wall without the need for a belay partner. The auto-belay system just lowers you gently to the ground without any hassle. The activities are amazing too. When climbing, the instruction is clear and concise and for those of us with more experience, the staff are great at gauging ability and setting challenges; for those with less ability they are very supportive and helpful. The Skypark is a close 2nd best to the Drop when it comes to fun. Am aerial assault course 15m off the ground? Exhilarating and so much fun! Again the staff were supportive and managed our group well, giving help and support where needed and leaving us to our own devices, or setting challenges where possible. The pictures came out very well, too. And 3 for £10 is a bargain. The Drop is phenomenal. The 15m freefall experience just pips the Skypark to the number 1 spot on my list of awesome experiences. The instructors make you feel so safe and it's just a step off the edge before you get butterflies, then land safely with another staff member there to unclip you. I really can't recommend this place enough, it's easily the most fun I've had in a very, very long time! If I could give it...