The RSPB and Sport England have teamed up to get more people outdoors and active. Rainham Marshes nature reserve, just a stone’s throw away from London, now plays host to the RSPB’s first bouldering area.

Working with Serious Climbing, Rainham Marshes has installed two fibreglass boulders onsite, providing a unique environment in which to climb. The boulders’ shapes are inspired by birds, three metres high and all the holds are natural features providing an experience similar to that of a natural boulder. With routes graded from V0 up to V5/6, the boulders cater to all ages and abilities; from those wanting a laid back scramble up the bird’s tail, to those who want to challenge themselves on the overhanging crack climb on the wing!

From the top of the boulders, you get fantastic views out across the marshes where you might see a marsh harrier soaring up high, or flocks of Lapwing flying over the water.

No specialist equipment is needed to climb at Rainham Marshes, but you are more than welcome to bring your own climbing shoes, hand tape, mat and chalk. You can even try making up your own routes!

Entry into the reserve and access to the boulders is free for RSPB members and for local residents of Havering and Thurrock. An entrance fee of £5 for adults and £3 for under-18s is applied if you are a non-member.

Look out for events such as climbing workshops, mini competitions and beginner rope work on our website: www.rspb.org.uk/activeinnature. 

The bouldering scheme is part of a partnership project with Sport England funded by the National Heritage Lottery called, ‘Active in Nature’.

We want to say a big thanks to every BMC member who continues to support us through the Coronavirus crisis.

From weekly Facebook Lives and GB Climbing home training videos, to our access team working to re-open the crags and fight for your mountain access, we couldn’t do it without you.

Did you know that we've launched a U27 membership offer for just £1.50 / month? And with full membership from £2.50 / month, it's never been easier to join and support our work: 

https://www.thebmc.co.uk/join-the-bmc-for-1-month-U27-membership

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