Thinking of heading to Portland to climb? Don’t forget our top tips:
Parking is limited in places on Portland - always make sure you park sensibly so you don’t affect others
There are plenty of crags to explore away from the usual suspects - give a new crag a go
The marine environment can cause bolts to corrode more quickly than normal. Check every bolt before you commit to it and don’t forget to donate to the Dorset Bolt Fund bolt fund to help support their work in replacing old bolts with shiny new ones.
Check the www.thebmc.co.uk/rad for access information on everything from restrictions nesting birds to where to park
There can be loose rock so consider wearing a helmet when climbing or walking along the bottom of crags
Climbing outdoors can feel pretty different to the wall so it’s worth dialling down your grade a little to get used to the style of climbing on limestone
It can get hot on the south coast - take plenty of water on sunny days
Make sure you have the right kit - 14 draws and a 60m rope should do it. A clipstick can be really useful too and don’t forget to tie a knot in the end of your rope.
Make a habit of doing buddy checks on knots and belay devices every time before you climb - it could save your life.
Don’t top rope directly through the anchors - make sure you use you own quickdraws to minimise wear on the lower off
Pay careful attention to re-threading the lower off - if you’re not sure what to do, check out our instructional video at www.thebmc.co.uk/loweroff and practice until you are confident before you leave the ground.
Don’t wild or van camp on Portland - it’s bound to strain relationships with local people and landowners. Head home or back to camping on the mainland at the end of each day.
We're the BMC. Climb walls, rock, hills, ice or mountains? Join us. www.thebmc.co.uk/join
10 июн 2020
