UK Climbing Road Trip: Best Destinations (In my opinion)

The UK is home to some of the most diverse and historically rich climbing destinations in the world. From gritstone edges in the Peak District to the towering sea cliffs of Pembrokeshire, a month-long road trip is the perfect way to experience the best of British climbing. Whether you’re a trad purist, a sport climber, or an all-rounder, this itinerary will guide you through some of the most iconic crags across the country.

Peak District & North Wales

Stanage Edge & The Peak District (3-4 Days)

Start your adventure in the heart of British climbing: the gritstone edges of the Peak District. Classic routes such as Flying Buttress (HVD), The Unconquerable (VS), and the notorious Gaia (E8 6c) offer challenges for all levels. The Peak is also home to some fantastic bouldering at Burbage, Curbar, and The Roaches.

Snowdonia (3-4 Days)

Next, head to North Wales for a mix of mountain trad, sea cliffs, and bouldering. Llanberis Pass offers legendary routes like Cenotaph Corner (E1 5c) and Lord of the Flies (E6 6a). For sea cliff adventure, visit Gogarth and tackle the exhilarating Dream of White Horses (HVS 4c). If you fancy a rest day, take a hike up Snowdon for breathtaking views.

Week 2: Lake District & Scotland’s Highlands

Lake District (3-4 Days)

The Lakes provide endless opportunities for trad climbing on impeccable volcanic rock. Try the classic Napes Needle (HS) on Great Gable or Eliminate A (VS 4c) on Dow Crag. For a multi-pitch adventure, head to Scafell’s East Buttress or Gimmer Crag.

Scotland: Ben Nevis & Glen Coe (3-4 Days)

Next, drive north to the Scottish Highlands, where you’ll find alpine-style routes on Ben Nevis such as Tower Ridge (IV,3). Glen Coe offers epic routes like Agag’s Groove (VD) on the Rannoch Wall. If conditions allow, explore the Isle of Skye’s Cuillin Ridge for a true mountaineering experience.

Week 3: Northumberland & The North East Coast

Northumberland (2-3 Days)

On your way back south, stop in Northumberland for some underrated but brilliant sandstone climbing. Visit Kyloe-in-the-Woods for tough bouldering or tackle trad classics at Simonside and Bowden Doors.

Yorkshire Limestone (2-3 Days)

Next, head to Malham Cove and Kilnsey, home to some of the UK’s hardest sport routes, including Rainshadow (9a). For more moderate grades, check out Gordale Scar or Twistleton Scars.

Week 4: South West England & Wales

Pembrokeshire (3-4 Days)

For some of the best sea cliff climbing in the UK, head to Pembrokeshire. Areas like St. Govan’s Head and Bosherston Head offer incredible trad lines such as The Hole (E1 5b) and Army Dreamers (HVS 5a).

Dartmoor & Cornwall (3-4 Days)

Finish your road trip in the South West. Dartmoor’s granite tors provide fun, short routes and excellent bouldering, while Cornwall’s Bosigran and Chair Ladder offer stunning sea cliff trad, including the classic Doorpost (HS 4b).

Final Thoughts

This UK climbing road trip offers a mix of rock types, climbing styles, and breathtaking scenery. Whether you do the whole route or just a section, you’ll experience the very best the UK has to offer. Pack your rack, load up the van, and get ready for an unforgettable month of adventure!

Got a favourite UK climbing road trip stop? Let us know in the comments!