Horseshoe Quarry, Peak District

Family friendly sport climbing in England's Peak District

Horseshoe quarry might not be the most aesthetically pleasing of locations - compared to spots like the cuttings - but this crag is just perfect for families.

The climbing is five minutes from the free car park, there is plenty of space to set up camp well back from the crag for babies or young children and there are no apparent dangers (don't quote me on that) such as holes in the ground that they might fall in.

The slight downside is that there is some broken glass around on the floor so it's a good idea to bring plenty of blankets and have a clean up around wherever you choose to set up camp. And don't let little ones run around without shoes on of course.

Logistics:

Parking: Free but get there early and be considerate of others when you park

Cost: Free but please donate £5pp to The Peak bolt fund or The Gary Gibson bolt fund

Walk in: 5 mins on a good path

Grade range: 270+ routes from f3-f7b

Baby friendly: *****

Child friendly: ****

Suitable for buggies: yes (you'll need to lift it over a row of small rocks right at the start)

Guidebook: Peak Limestone Rockfax

Climbing, hill walking and mountaineering are activities with a danger of personal injury or death.

Participants in these activities should be aware of and accept these risks and be responsible for their own actions and involvement.

If an area is listed here as baby- or child- friendly it simply means that it is convenient, and does not mean the area is safe. Parents must make their own assessment of risk.