Learn to Lead

The real deal. Learning to lead climb can be daunting, which is why our classes break down the information in easy-to-understand chunks, practicing every new skill before moving on to the next.

Our instructors have years of experience, so it is also a great opportunity to ask all the questions you have about climbing, lead climbing and climbing outside.

These classes are 2 hours long, and due to the nature of lead climbing, we have split the content into 2 different classes. Learn to Lead, and Learn to Fall. Booking for these classes is 2x 2-hour sessions over a 2 week period.

Learn to Lead covers all the technical belaying and clipping. Putting all this together and making sure everyone can safely get up and down the walls.

Topics covered:

• Knowledge of quickdraws, lower-offs and ropes
• Clipping techniques and best practices
• Lead belaying
• Understanding the danger zone
• Use of advanced climbing calls
• Safe lead falling technique
• Safe catching of a lead climber
• Dynamic belaying
• Efficient climbing technique
• Safe use of assisted breaking devices

At Big Depot, we allow you to manage your own learning, giving you the opportunity to come to as many classes as you like and whichever classes suit your schedule.

Please note that to book a Learn to Lead course, you need to be a confident top rope climber and belayer.  If you aren't sure, please ask a member of staff.

£60 per person, per two-class block.

Price includes entry and equipment hire.

Please note that you need to be a competent top-rope climber to book these sessions, and each booking consists of 2x 2hour sessions over a 2 week period.