Stowmarket Cragg

Stowmarket Rock Climbing

Rock climbing is an activity in which participants climb up, down or across natural rock formations or artificial rock walls. The goal is to reach the summit of a formation or the endpoint of a pre-defined route without falling. To successfully complete a climb, one must return to the base of the route safely. Due to the length and extended endurance required, accidents are more likely to happen on descent than ascent, especially on the larger multiple pitches. Rock climbing competitions have the objectives of either completing the route in the quickest possible time or attaining the farthest point on an increasingly difficult route. Scrambling, another activity involving the scaling of hills and similar formations, is similar to rock climbing. However, rock climbing is generally differentiated by its sustained use of hands to support the climber's weight as well as to provide balance.

Rock climbing is a physically and mentally demanding sport, one that often tests a climber's strength, endurance, agility and balance along with mental control. It can be a dangerous sport and knowledge of proper climbing techniques and usage of specialised climbing equipment is crucial for the safe completion of routes. Because of the wide range and variety of rock formations around the world, rock climbing has been separated into several different styles and sub-disciplines.

Stowmarket Rock Climbing wall is an artificial indoor wall that consists of a 40 foot high rock wall, with both straight and overhang walls, with various routes and difficulties. There is also a bouldering wall which gives the climbers the ability to climb and test their skills without the need for ropes and harness than can often get in the way or prolong the climb.

The range of routes and climbers that use Stowmarket Cragg are incredibly diverse which allows a community to be built up around the centre; to help progress the younger less experienced climbers and home there climbing skills.  Whether the climbs could be extended to the outside of the building to give the climbers a sense of climbing outdoor is something that the organisers of the Cragg could think about.

All in all the Stowmarket Cragg is a all rounded climbing centre that gives help and appeals to all ranges of climbing skill.