Brookes Climb FAQs

Cancellation policy for activity bookings (excluding event hire and block booking):

1. Cancellation with refund

   • You may cancel an activity booking with a minimum of 24 hours' notice before the scheduled start time.
   • To request a refund, please send an email to sportsmembership@brookes.ac.uk.

2. Transfer policy

   • For cancellations with less than 24 hours' notice but up to 4 hours before the booking starts, you can request a transfer to a like-for-like activity.
   • Please contact us to initiate the transfer process (sportsmembership@brookes.ac.uk).

3. No transfers under 4 hours' notice

   • Unfortunately, we are unable to facilitate transfers for bookings with less than 4 hours' notice before the scheduled start time.

Please note that this policy is applicable to regular activity bookings and does not cover event hire or block booking arrangements. If you have any questions or need further assistance, feel free to reach out to sportsmembership@brookes.ac.uk.

No, however, you will be required to register at reception before climbing and complete the Climbing Participation Agreement. Bouldering is open to all levels including novices.

If you wish to use the roped walls you need to declare yourself competent during registration and provide your own safety equipment.

If you feel you would benefit from instruction then courses are available for all abilities.

We advise you to wear comfortable sportswear or loose clothing.

Climbing shoes are advised and available to hire from reception. If using your own shoes they must be clean and non-marking.

For roped climbing you will require a harness and belay device (not available for hire).

For lead climbing a minimum 30 metre lead-rated rope is required (not available for hire). 

For instructor led courses, all equipment is provided.

Our instructors will be happy to advise you about suitable equipment.

Yes, we have auto-belay devices on three lead lines and three bouldering rooms. 

A registered adult climber can sign in and supervise a maximum of two children for both bouldering and roped climbs. All children must be signed in and supervised by the registered adult who takes full responsibility for them.

If you wish to bring more children to climb then please book a group lesson or party.

Yes, on most courses you don’t need a partner to attend. Once you’re a member you may meet other climbers either on your course or amongst the many clubs and users of the centre.

Bouldering is solo climbing without ropes but at a low level. There are three bouldering areas, two with blue safety mats beneath plus the freestanding boulder.

Belaying is a technique to safely hold a climber on a rope.

An auto belay is a safe mechanical system, which will automatically lower you to the ground should you fall. We have auto-belay devices on three lead lines.

For all enquiries email climb@brookes.ac.uk, call 01865 53 4100 to speak to reception.