Instead of letting the kids climb the walls at home this morning, we took them along to try the new Clip N Climb Arena at York Leisure Centre at the new York Stadium complex (Monks Cross) and they loved it. It’s a really impressive new facility with a range of fun and challenging climbing walls for all ages and abilities from four upwards. Our youngest (6) took one look at it and firmly decided that she wasn’t going to try it because it was ‘too high’, but after a couple of minutes of watching her brother and sister scaling the walls, she put her harness on and was unstoppable. The older ones got stuck into all of the challenges, timing themselves, racing each other and taking on the ‘Stairway to Heaven’ pillars. There’s a brilliant variety of walls, with different things to think about for each one, so there’s absolutely no danger of getting bored. We used to travel out of York for this sort of activity, so it’s amazing to have one a short drive/cycle/bus ride away. Our children are already bickering about who’s going to have their birthday party there, so it’s safe to say we’ll be back.
Good to know – Pre-booking for Clip ‘N Climb is required, and parking is free at one of the two car parks (or at Vangarde if you want to combine it with some shopping, but just keep an eye on the clock so you don’t overstay your welcome and get a ticket!). This is a supervised activity with Covid-safe measures in place – we found the staff really helpful and they created a nice relaxed environment. You’ll need to tie long hair back, jewellery and wear trainers and clothes you can climb in (no skirts/dresses/hoodies). Eventually, there will be a cafe at York Leisure Centre, too, so you can refuel there afterwards. At present, children from 4 to 11 must be accompanied by a paying adult aged 16+. Sessions are one hour long, with a short safety briefing at the beginning. Clipp’n’climb birthday parties are offered at York Leisure Centre too.
