Climbing fever has swept the nation.

Over the past few years, more and more people have been taking up rock climbing and bouldering.

The sport's new popularity was highlighted last year when it made its Olympic debut.

Luckily, Maxonians don't have to travel far to get their fix thanks to Substation, located just a stone's throw from the town centre, on Queen's Avenue.

You don't have to be an Olympian to give it a try either, with the climbing centre offering sessions for all ages and abilities.

Substation runs climbing clubs suitable for children aged five and up (Credit: Substation)

Family sessions

New to bouldering? Families can book a 30-minute private induction to bouldering with one of Substation's coaches. 

This 30-minute session teaches the basic skills needed to boulder safely and with confidence.

After your induction, you are free to explore the centre at your own pace and climb all day if you wish!

The £50 fixed price is for up to six people and includes a climbing day pass, climbing shoe hire, chalk bag hire and the 30-minutes with a qualified instructor.

For safety, groups must have a ratio of one supervising adult to two children when exploring the climbing areas. 

Kids clubs 

If your child is looking to take their climbing to the next level, Substation Macclesfield offers a range of exciting kids clubs for young climbers aged 5–16.

Children can begin their climbing journey as young as 5 years old with Wild Climbers – a fun, game-based club designed for ages 5–6.

This playful and engaging session introduces the fundamentals of climbing in a safe, supportive, and non-competitive environment.

For children aged 7 and up, Substation offers two instructed pathways: NICAS (National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme) and the Junior Bouldering Club.

NICAS is ideal for those who enjoy a challenge and want to improve their climbing skills through a structured programme.

Weekly sessions follow a progressive syllabus across three levels, starting from beginner (Level 1) and advancing through assessments to higher levels as skills develop.

Junior Bouldering Club, on the other hand, offers a more relaxed, low-pressure environment while still focusing on building confidence, technique, and climbing ability in a fun and supportive setting.

All kids club sessions are 60 minutes long and led by qualified climbing coaches, ensuring a safe and enriching experience for every young climber.

Click here to find out more about each of the clubs available.

Why not celebrate your next birthday at Substation? (Credit: Substation)

Parties

Substation also cater for children's birthday parties. 

 Bouldering is a great all-weather birthday activity - experience 60 minutes of climbing in the dedicated kids area followed by half an hour for pizza, snacks and drinks. Instructed parties are available for kids aged 7+. Private hire of the space is also an option for five-to-six. 

Find out more about Substation parties here.

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Support from local organisations such as them helps us keep our local news free and easy-to-read.

If you own a local business and would like to sponsor us, get in touch at [email protected].