Heriot Watt University Wall, Edinburgh
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Opened: 1970's
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The climbing wall is situated on the university campus grounds, in the Centre for Sport and Exercise hall. It is an old style, grey brick wall, which has been built on the back wall of a large sports hall.
In the 70's, this wall, like large lapeled shirts was state of the art ... but both have seen their day! However, in its favour, the wall is a good size and height, and remains a useful facility for teaching the basics of climbing. With belay ledges in place, anchors and belay techniques can be practised, and existing wall features will ensure techniques such as jamming, lay backing and chimneying can be mastered. |
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Overall verdict:
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Out dated wall, good for beginners and teaching purposes, but otherwise uninspiring.
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By bus: From Edinburgh, catch a number 25a, 35 or 45. These take you to the campus.
By train: Closest station is Wester Hailes. From here, catch a bus.
By car: From Edinburgh City Centre, head west on the A71. When you reach roundabout for the bypass go straight over. You'll pick up signs for Heriot-Watt - follow signs. If coming on the bypass, take the exit for Calder (A71), then follow signs for Heriot-Watt.
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Address:
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Centre for Sport and Exercise, Heriot-Watt University, Riccarton, Edinburgh, EH14 4AS
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Tel:
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0131 451 3000
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Web:
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n/a
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Wall Description:
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The wall is constructed from grey bricks with concrete blocks erected at angles to create lay backs, bridging and chimney features. Concrete ledges provide belaying points and cracks have been created for fists and finger jams. Other holds use brick edges, chipped holds or real stone inserts. Top ropes are in place for the length of the wall.
Lead/ top-rope walls
Easiest route: none set
Hardest route: none set
Classic of the crag: The regular fist jam crack - a nightmare jam if you have small hands!
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Opening Hours:
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Mon-Sun: 0900-2115 (the wall may be closed at times when other activities are taking place in the sports hall - call reception to check).
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Entry Fee:
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£1.90 per session
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Entry Requirements:
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Climbers with existing experience can apply to be put on the approved users list which allows them to use the wall either as individuals (with certain restrictions), or with other approved users. Children under 16 are allowed entry if accompanied by an adult.
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Equipment Hire:
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Harness and boots available to hire for £1. |
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Other facilities on offer:
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Racquet sports, ball sports, cardiovascular suite, free weights.
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Showers:
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Yes
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Food:
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Café on Campus open daily from 1130 - 1400. Vending machines also on site.
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Kids Club:
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Only during the summer holiday period (out of term time).
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Courses/Instruction on offer:
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Yes. Rock climbing courses are available for those with little or no rock climbing experience. The courses focus on providing a sound approach to belaying, protection and rope management.
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Shop:
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No
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Famous names who train there:
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No famous names these days, though a few top notch climbers have come through the doors of Heriot-Watt. |
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Best Nearest Pub(s):
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Students Union, maybe not the best, but certainly the nearest and cheapest! |
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Best Nearest Food:
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On site restaurant and café
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