Mike Nolan Climbing

Climbing Courses in the UK

From your first leads to classic multi-pitch routes – structured courses and coaching to help you climb with confidence

The UK offers some of the finest rock climbing in the world. From the sea cliffs of North Wales to the limestone and gritstone of the Peak District, there's a lifetime of routes waiting to be climbed. Whether you're taking your first leads outdoors or looking to push your grade, developing solid skills and confidence is essential.

These courses cover everything from traditional and sport lead climbing to multi-pitch systems and performance coaching. Each course is designed around safe progression, practical skills, and giving you the tools to become an independent, confident climber on UK rock.

Courses

Learn to Lead Trad – 2 Day

2 Days North Wales / Peak District

A practical introduction to traditional lead climbing for competent seconds and experienced indoor lead climbers.

£250 per person

Ratio 1:2

  • Placing and assessing gear
  • Building secure anchors
  • Reading rock and route selection
  • Risk management and decision-making
  • Efficient rope systems and belays
  • Developing confidence and independence
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Learn to Lead Trad – 5 Day

5 Days North Wales / Peak District

A comprehensive progression into traditional lead climbing and multi-pitch systems.

£600 per person

Ratio 1:2

Builds on our 2-day course with additional focus on:

  • Building and managing multi-pitch anchors
  • Efficient belay transitions and communication
  • Route-finding on multi-pitch terrain
  • Abseiling and multi-pitch descent techniques
  • Developing independence on multi-pitch routes
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Learn to Lead Sport – 2 Day

2 Days North Wales / Peak District

A structured introduction to sport lead climbing for experienced indoor or outdoor top-rope climbers.

£250 per person

Ratio 1:2

  • Efficient clipping techniques
  • Belaying and lowering off safely
  • Building fall confidence and awareness
  • Route reading and sequence planning
  • Working routes and projecting tactics
  • Managing pump and rests on lead
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Climbing MOT – 1 Day

1 Day North Wales / Peak District

A skills review and performance tune-up for experienced climbers operating at Severe or above.

£125 per person

Ratio 1:2

  • Review of belays, anchors, and safety systems
  • Movement efficiency and technique analysis
  • Gear placement and anchor assessment
  • Ropework and multi-pitch systems check
  • Personalized feedback on your climbing
  • Confidence-building for upcoming objectives
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Trad Coaching

Custom Dates Various Locations

Performance coaching for trad climbers operating at VS and above.

£250 per day
  • Movement efficiency and technique coaching
  • Route tactics and on-sight strategy
  • Mental approach and managing the head game
  • Gear, ropework and belaying review and improvement
  • Grade-pushing strategies and progression planning
  • Tailored coaching at your preferred venues

Available Dates

Custom dates available – contact to discuss your requirements and preferred venues

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Sport Coaching

Custom Dates Various Locations

Structured coaching for sport climbers working or progressing towards 7a and above.

£250 per day
  • Movement skills and technique coaching
  • Redpoint strategy and tactics
  • Mental approach and managing the head game
  • Performance analysis and progression planning
  • Tailored coaching at suitable venues

Available Dates

Custom dates available – contact to discuss your requirements and preferred venues

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Private Guiding

Custom Dates Various Locations

Bespoke guiding and instruction on classic UK routes, sea cliffs, and mountain crags.

£250 per day
  • Classic UK climbing venues
  • From sea cliff adventures and big mountain routes to single pitch cragging
  • Logistics and planning included
  • Risk management and decision-making
  • Personalised instruction throughout
  • Flexible itineraries for individuals or small groups

Available Dates

Custom dates available – contact to discuss your objectives and preferred routes

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What's Included

Expert Instruction

Small ratios ensure personalised attention throughout your course. Professional qualifications and years of experience guiding on UK rock mean you're learning from someone who knows these crags inside out.

Classic UK Venues

Access to the best climbing areas in North Wales and the Peak District. From slate quarries to limestone crags, gritstone edges to mountain routes, you'll learn on terrain that's shaped generations of UK climbers.

Flexible Learning

Courses adapt to your pace, the conditions, and your objectives. Whether it's adjusting venues for weather or focusing on specific skills, the programme is designed around getting you the best experience possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

What experience do I need?

Each course has different prerequisites listed in the course details. Generally, beginner courses suit experienced indoor climbers or competent seconds, while coaching courses are designed for those already operating at higher grades outdoors. If you're unsure whether a course is right for you, just get in touch.

What equipment do I need?

You'll receive a detailed kit list on booking. For lead courses, you'll typically need your own harness, helmet, and climbing shoes. Ropes and technical gear can be provided if needed. I can advise on suitable options if you're building your rack.

Where do we meet?

Meeting locations depend on the conditions, your objectives and where you're staying. For North Wales courses, we're typically within 45 minutes of Llanberis. For Peak District courses, we're usually within 45 minutes of Castleton. Meeting points and times are confirmed closer to the date, based on the chosen venue, objectives and weather forecast, but we'll usually start our first day at around 9am in a local cafe for a chat.

Do I need a car?

Not at all. All courses are accessible via public transport. If you're travelling by train or bus, just let me know in advance and I can arrange transport from the nearest station – either offering a lift myself or coordinating lift sharing with other participants on the course.

What if the weather is bad?

UK weather can be unpredictable, but it's part of learning to climb outdoors. Courses are designed to be flexible – we can adjust venues, change objectives, or focus on different skills depending on conditions. The goal is always to make the most of the day while keeping everyone safe and comfortable. If the forecast shows genuinely unsafe conditions, I'll be in touch ahead of the course to discuss rescheduling.

How do I pay?

Complete the booking form below to request your chosen course and dates. Payment details will be sent via email, and you can either pay in full or secure your place with a 50% deposit by bank transfer. The remaining balance is due 30 days before the course start date (or in full if booking within 30 days). Your place is confirmed once payment has been received.

Is accommodation included?

No, accommodation is not included in the course price. There are plenty of options in both North Wales and the Peak District, from campsites and hostels to B&Bs and hotels. I'm happy to suggest places to stay based on your preferences and budget.

Book Your Course

Ready to get started? Select the course and date you're interested in below, and I'll get back to you to confirm availability and next steps. If none of the fixed dates work for you, choose the custom date option and let me know your preferred timing.

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