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McLaren Leisure Centre, Callander
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Opened: 1998
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Ask most people if they know there is a climbing wall in Callander and they will answer no.
In 1998, a new leisure centre opened, and in it Alien Rock were asked to build a wall. The new centre is modern, has good facilities, and so one would think it would also have a good wall. Well yes, with good features and design the wall itself is good for both top roping and bouldering - what little there is of it!
Unfortunately, the centre management obviously felt climbing wasn't a high demand sport, or perhaps they just needed something to fill a cupboard-sized room and came up with a climbing wall. It is unfortunate really, but Alien Rock did an excellent job given the space provided.
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Overall verdict:
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If I were a local I would certainly use the wall, however, unless I was using the centres other facilities, I doubt if I would make a special journey from further afield.
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By bus: Buses do go to Callander High School (next to the Leisure Centre). For times, ask at the Tourist Information centre.
By train: Closest train station is Stirling, then hop on a bus to Callander.
By car: From Callander main street (A84) follow the signs to Glasgow (A81) for approximately ½ mile until you see the signpost on for McLaren Leisure Centre on the left.
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Address:
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McLaren Leisure Centre, Mollands Road, Callander, FK17 8JP
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Tel:
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01877 330000
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Web:
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www.mclarenleisure.co.uk
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Wall Description:
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The 6m high wall as I have already mentioned is small, but despite its size a lot has been squeezed into it. Designed and built by Alien Rock, it has many features similar to those seen at Alien Rock. The walls consist of moulded resin panels with bolt on holds and interesting features such as undercuts, flakes, large pockets, pocketed corners, a little cave area, overhanging and vertical walls. The room, although claustrophobic, is well heated and the features are interesting. All routes have fixed ropes (12 belay points), and bouldering is permitted.
Boulder problems/ routes:
At the time of my visit, routes had been set but as yet no grades had been given. However I am told these will be coming shortly.
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Opening Hours:
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Mon & Sat: 0900-2100.
Tues-Fri: 0730-2200.
Sun: 0830-2100
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Entry Fee:
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Adults, £3 at all times, Juniors £2.
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Entry Requirements:
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Sign a registration form on entry. Adults must sign a consent form for children wishing to use the wall.
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Equipment Hire:
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Yes: Belay devices (only 4 available). Harnesses (only 4 available).
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Other facilities on offer:
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20 metre swimming pool; Spa Bath, Sauna and Steam Room; Fitness Suite; Sports Hall (for five-aside football, basketball, badminton, netball & areobics); Bowling. External tennis courts; Squash courts; Beauty Treatments (reflexology, waxing, facials, massage, electrolysis, manicures & aromatherapy).
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Showers:
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Yes
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Food:
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A café overlooks the swimming pool. Hot and cold drinks available and "healthy, balanced meals for all tastes".
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Kids Club:
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No
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Courses/Instruction on offer:
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Come and Try sessions - One hour long climbing inductions with instructor provided. Session costs £7.50 for adults and £5 for juniors.
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Shop:
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Yes -sells a range of sports clothing and equipment, but no climbing equipment or chalk.
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Famous names who train there:
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None known
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Best Nearest Food:
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Café in leisure centre, or for good, simple and cheap traditional try the Scotch Oven bakery on Callendar's High Street.
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