Crags across Cheshire, Derbyshire and Tameside

There are lots of outdoor climbing places across Greater Manchester and plenty within close distance from our pubs too. The great thing about climbing is that you work up an appetite and there’s nothing quite like packing up your gear knowing that your next stop is a pub beer garden to unwind with a cold beer. We’ve selected a few crags in Cheshire, Derbyshire and Tameside. Each of the crags are close to pubs and have a number of climbing routes suitable for beginners as well as those looking to do something a little more challenging.

For your own safety and the safety of others, don’t attempt these climbs without a skilled outdoor climber and all the correct safety gear. Make sure to follow suggested routes and use guide books or logs to check your routes before beginning. Plan ahead with the weather, consider the previous days and the day you’ve got ahead of you. Some rock faces can retain water and are all exposed to different wind directions. Please also ensure you’re parking responsibly and be respectful of the land of local farmers both where you park and climb from. We recommend using guide books or online sites such as UKClimbing to check everything before you go.

Climbing at Windgather Rocks - Cheshire

Windgather is a gritstone crag suitable for beginners and intermediates wishing to climb with ropes or boulder. The rock has plenty of climbs with good handholds making it a friendly place for all ages and skills of climbers. Situated in the Goyt Valley, not far from Kettleshulme, the crag is surrounded by green fields, sheep and a pretty sunset if you catch the right weather conditions. It can be quite a busy crag so be aware for few groups of beginners learning the ropes, but its big enough to always find a spot to traverse without much waiting around. There is no car park here but limited on road parking is available.

Climbing at Castle Naze - Derbyshire

Considered the bigger brother of Windgather, Castle Naze also offers some excellent views from both the bottom and top of the crag. On a sunny day you can enjoy the sun glistering off the reservoir below and catch windsurfers perfecting their skills too. It’s a smaller crag than neighbouring Windgather and does require a few more technical skills for a lot of the climbs but still remains a good crag to improve your practice on. The crag is westerly facing and requires a short walk up to the start of the crag.

Climbing at Hobson Moor Quarry – Tameside

Perhaps the least picturesque of our suggestions, this crag offers quite the rugged climb, but is home to some interesting and challenging routes. Sitting more or less roadside, you can have your vehicle close by, with parking not too difficult either. The grit stone crag has a south and south west face and is often sheltered from the wind, making it a good climb on days a little breezier. Suitable for all abilities of climbers with routes ranging from VD to E4.