I had the opportunity to witness a group of skilled climbers conquer a challenging route while bouldering indoors. As I observed and half-listened to their conversation, the topic of climbing outdoors came up. Although they dreamed of it, they were unsure of how to make it happen. This issue extends beyond rock climbing and permeates throughout the UK, with many individuals having unused equipment stored away, symbolizing unfulfilled aspirations. I am guilty of this myself, with a fishing kayak that remains dry and neglected in my shed. I hesitated to use this impulsive purchase made during lockdown.
This life lesson is not unfamiliar to me. Many years ago, during a family trip to the Lake District, I witnessed some men rock climbing. Inspired, I took a washing line from the caravan site and attempted to climb as well. However, my adventure was cut short when I was confronted by a stern man wearing a red helmet. I was escorted off the crag and told to leave.
Now, over half a century later, I find myself sitting beneath Stickle Barn crag, contemplating the nature of access and opportunity. Things have changed since my childhood incident. More people are granted permission to explore areas that were once exclusive to a privileged few. Equipment, instruction, and information are more readily available. According to Alan James, the CEO of Rockfax, the UK is fortunate to have excellent climbing guidebooks, which are particularly useful for beginners. Moreover, attitudes have shifted, and the outdoor community has become more inclusive. However, there are still significant areas of outdoor enjoyment that remain inaccessible, whether due to physical barriers like fences or intangible ones such as expansive territories owned by the Ministry of Defence and the unfinished English coastal path.
Here on the hillside, we are breaking through these invisible fences. Our Italian climbing guide is assisting a first-time outdoor climber from London’s Chinese community, checking their knots before they embark on this new adventure. Yichen, filled with excitement, exclaims, “I’ve climbed every wall in London, but this is so different. I can’t believe how steep the walk up here was.”
Amal from Wanderers of Colour, a community group that encourages individuals of color to participate in activities they may otherwise shy away from, mentions, “A lot of people I know would never dare come here. It can be a bit intimidating.”
There are additional barriers to outdoor activities like climbing that extend beyond physical access. These sports can often appear exclusive due to specific jargon and an unconscious desire to maintain a sense of belonging by excluding others. However, at the Arc’Teryx Climbing Academy, a small climbing festival in the Lake District, these barriers are set aside. Participants, ranging from professional climbers and guides to beginners of all skill levels, gather to enjoy the rock and the camaraderie that follows with barbecues, films, and talks. DMM, Welsh climbing specialists, provide helmets and harnesses to all attendees. Each morning, I meet with a small group for various courses tailored to different levels of experience. We discuss the necessary equipment and what each of us already possesses. By the time we venture out, we already feel like a group of friends united in our love for climbing.
In addition to climbing, there are various other outdoor activities worth exploring. For those interested in kayaking, the Plas y Brenin center in north Wales offers programs for aspiring whitewater paddlers and experienced kayakers. They also host the ShePaddles Cymru festival for women and residential summer camps. Canoeing enthusiasts can participate in Canoefest, held in various locations each year, including one close to the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct. Another option is attending the Open Canoe festival in Mirabel-et-Blacons, France, on the Drôme River.
Hiking is an accessible outdoor activity for everyone, regardless of background or exposure. While some communities may not have a tradition of hiking, public footpaths are available to all. The UK hosts numerous walking festivals, and Europe offers its fair share of hiking opportunities, such as exploring Umbria in Italy. Wheelchair users can also enjoy nature by participating in events specifically designed to accommodate them, like the Dartmoor Walking festival.
Cycling is another outdoor activity that may be hindered by barriers such as bike ownership and aspiration. Attending festivals like Ard Rock and the Cycle Touring Festival can serve as inspiration. If you’re up for an international cycling experience, consider the Global Bike festival in Saalbach, Austria.
Birdwatching remains a popular outdoor activity in the UK, despite the impact of industry and intensive agriculture. Events like the Spurn Migration festival in East Yorkshire attract birdwatchers of all levels, providing an opportunity to spot a wide variety of species, including rare ones. The RSPB also hosts events at their reserves, offering further birdwatching opportunities. Promoting diversity in birdwatching is a global effort, with collectives like Flock Together in London dedicated to inclusivity and representation among birdwatchers.
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