Bowles Rocks is a family-friendly climbing site with open climbing policy, but may require climbers to move if an instructor needs the area. It offers facilities and has a good atmosphere.
Admission is £5 by card. Yearly passes available at the office. The rocks are owned by Bowles Outdoor Pursuits Centre. All funds go to upkeep of the rocks, toilet facilities on site, as well as providing outdoor activities for disadvantaged young people. Payment by contactless card only.
The location of the rocks can be accessed via the A26 road between Tunbridge Wells and Crowborough. To reach the site, take the left turn approximately 1km (0.6mi) after passing Eridge station when heading towards Crowborough. Once you arrive, it's only a brief one-minute walk on a paved road from the parking area to the rocks.
We strongly advise using liquid chalk whenever possible.
Prior to beginning your climb, ensure that your climbing shoes are clean. To do so, it's necessary to use a mat or a piece of carpet to wipe your feet. This measure will significantly decrease the damage to the crag caused by wear and tear.
To set up a top-rope belay, use a non-stretch sling and be sure to keep the Karabiner positioned over the crag's edge. Avoid allowing the moving rope to make contact with the rock, as is typical of all sandstone crags.
Do not employ boulder brushes or toothbrushes to clean the rock, as this will cause damage and make it more difficult to climb.
Ensure that your dogs are kept on a leash and not permitted to wander freely.
Graphique de l'historique des voies
John Walters cleared Bowles Rocks in the 1960s to create a rock climbing gymnasium, despite its previously limited use for climbing due to the high-quality sandstone.
In 1963, the Bowles Rocks Trust purchased the site, which has a varied history dating back to prehistoric times. The rocks were reportedly used by smugglers, as a rubbish tip, and a gipsy camp, and during World War II, pigs were kept there, and a firing range was set up. Bullet holes and pigsty beams can still be seen on the rocks today.
The site's history is reflected in climb names such as Pig's Ear and Pig's Nose. The rocks were originally located along the carriageway leading to nearby resident John Bowles' property.
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