Well, it wasn’t exactly Spanish temperatures, but there was blue sky! We made the most of the spring like weather for my first outdoor climbing session of the year, combining some staff training and student climbing opportunities.

There was a nippy breeze on the top of the crag, but it actually got quite warm at the base. Lovely to be out of the climbing walls at last!

A new line of bolts has appeared since my last visit here (to the left of Hidden Gem), which we climbed – but cautiously, as there is a loose block near the top. It’s a shame as the bolts at the top are much better placed than those on the right!

The afternoon was wonderful as we scouted setting up anchors along the cliff top and when we got back to base, before continuing on some other planning and stores work, we enjoyed a cuppa on the steps in the full sunshine, which felt fantastic…

Castle Inn Quarry Climbs:

• Hidden Gem, 4a
• New Route (to left), 4b
• Wilderness Wall, 5