Social Climbing

An indoor climbing wall in Leicester where you can actually learn proper technique without looking like a complete muppet on your first go. Social Climbing is the sort of place that works brilliantly if you're stuck indoors on a drizzly Midlands day and fancy something that doesn't involve queuing for a coffee.

The venue caters mainly to climbers of all abilities - beginners get shown the ropes (literally), while experienced climbers can tackle harder routes. It's not a sprawling complex, but what they've got is well-maintained. You're looking at maybe two to three hours if you're taking it seriously, less if you just fancy a quick go. Kids tend to get into it once they've got the hang of the safety bits, though attention spans can vary.

Since the nearest town is Leicester itself, it works well as part of a wider weekend if you're staying at one of the local caravan parks. Green Acres and Cossiwild Camping are both within striking distance - about five miles or so - making this a decent rainy-day option alongside exploring the city proper. Charnwood Acres is slightly further out at six miles if you're after somewhere quieter.

Bring trainers with proper grip; their hire shoes are fine but your own feet will thank you. It's worth ringing ahead to check session times and whether you need to book - walk-ins can be hit and miss depending on how busy they are.