Intermediate Climbing: Trad Climbing Adventures in Cornwall
Intermediate Climbing Courses and Trad Climbing Experiences in Cornwall
What is trad climbing? Learn traditional climbing techniques on real sea cliffs with our climbing courses in Cornwall.
An Introduction to Trad Climbing in Cornwall
If you’re an indoor climber or tackled a few routes outside, this is your chance to go further. Our intermediate trad climbing courses in Cornwall are designed for climbers with some experience who want to learn more — whether that’s tackling harder routes, seconding a lead climber, or starting to explore the gear and techniques behind ‘trad’.
So, what is trad climbing? It’s a more adventurous form of climbing where the protection is placed and removed as you go — no bolts, just gear, skill and judgement. We’ll introduce these principles at your pace, with no pressure to lead unless you’re ready to progress.
Courses are typically based at the world-class granite cliffs of Sennen — a truly unforgettable location and one of the best things to do in Sennen Cove if you’re into adventure. With expert coaching and completely bespoke sessions, you’ll build real confidence and develop the skills to take your climbing further.
Learn the Ropes on Real Rock
Follow your instructor up classic lines as you learn gear placement, rope systems, and sea cliff technique — all at your own pace.
Climb Harder, Try New Techniques
Whether you want to improve footwork or test yourself on tougher routes, we’ll tailor the day to challenge and inspire you.
Climb Cornwall’s Iconic Crags
Experience some of the best single-pitch climbing in the country — including legendary lines like Demo Route at Sennen.
Our intermediate courses are totally tailored — just you (or you and your partner) working with an experienced instructor to push your skills forward. We’ll start the day by chatting through your goals and shaping the session around them.
Want to climb harder and refine your technique? We’ll choose routes to suit your ability and focus on movement, footwork and body positioning. Want to go deeper into trad climbing? We can cover ropework, anchor building, gear placements, and problem-solving — hands-on and at your pace.
Much of the day will be spent seconding your instructor on classic single-pitch routes. This gives you a real taste of how climbers operate on sea cliffs like Sennen: moving as a team, placing and retrieving gear, and learning how trad protection works in practice.
All of this takes place on the granite cliffs of West Cornwall — and there’s nowhere better. With stunning sea views, pristine rock, and quiet crags, Sennen is the ideal place to take your next steps in traditional climbing. These climbing courses in Cornwall aren’t just about learning—they’re about building confidence, developing real skills, and enjoying the journey.
Not sure if this is the right level for you? We also offer a beginner course for those just starting out, and an advanced course for experienced climbers ready to lead. Get in touch if you’re unsure — we’ll help you choose the best fit.
“It was an amazing day, Matt was fantastic, very knowledgeable and adapted the day to our needs and wishes. We learnt so much and felt like we were climbing with a friend. What an experience and with the most jaw dropping background. Can’t recommend Matt highly enough!”
Vikki M., June, ’19
Take Your Next Steps as a Climber
Learn the Nuts and Bolts of Climbing in Cornwall
Trad Climbing Starts Where Top-Roping Ends
If you’ve ever asked, “What is trad climbing?”, this course is your answer — not in theory, but on the rock. For many climbers coming from indoor walls or beginner days out, seconding a trad route is their first real glimpse into how traditional climbing works.
Rather than simply following ropes from above, you’ll be seconding a lead climber — removing gear, reading the route, and understanding how protection is placed in real time. You’ll see anchor systems up close, learn what makes a safe placement, and gain insight into how trad climbing balances risk, skill and judgment. It’s the ideal next step for anyone looking to move beyond top-roping and experience what real climbers do on the sea cliffs of Cornwall.
Our trad courses in Cornwall are also perfect for those who want to progress without pressure. There’s no need to lead — unless that’s your goal. You’ll have the option to explore knots, gear handling, and ropework skills like belaying from above or setting up simple anchors, all at your own pace.
Whether you’re curious about anchor building and gear, or just want to climb more adventurous lines than you’d find on a beginner day, this is your path forward. It’s about building trust — in your belay, in your movement, and in yourself.
They had an absolutely awesome time and were buzzing afterwards.
Intermediate Rock Climbing
£180 per day
(For one or two people)
The minimum age for Intermediate Rock Climbing is 10-years-old. Note that children younger than 14 years of age must be accompanied by an adult to participate on this course.
Trad Climbing with a View
There’s nothing quite like trad climbing on a granite sea cliff, with waves crashing far below and golden lichen beneath your fingertips. These aren’t indoor walls or tiny inland crags — they’re wild, beautiful, and unforgettable.
Our routes are chosen not just for progression, but for experience. Every climb helps build your head for heights, trust in the rope, and belief in your own ability. Whether you’re pulling through a crux or pausing to take in the view, these are moments you’ll remember long after the chalk has washed away.
This is Cornwall rock climbing at its best — exposed, adventurous, and utterly brilliant.
Get a sense of the experience — take a look at our climbing gallery from across Cornwall.
Cornwall’s Trad Climbing Specialists
At Kernow Coasteering, we don’t just guide climbers — we live this stuff. When we’re not out with clients, you’ll find us exploring new routes, checking conditions, and chasing the best sea cliff lines the Cornish coast has to offer.
With years of experience on these granite crags, we know every gear placement, tide window, and hidden gem. Whether you’re a solid indoor climber ready to make the leap, or just want to climb in a place that’s as scenic as it is serious, you’re in safe hands.
This course is just one part of what we offer. You can read more our climbing philosophy and background and check out our climbing gallery to see what a day out looks like. Or, have a look through our reviews to see what other climbers have said.
If you’ve got questions, drop us a line via the contact page — we’d love to chat.
Still Wondering If This Course Is Right for You?
You’re not the only one! Here are some of the most common questions we get about our intermediate trad courses — from what you’ll learn to what makes the sea cliffs in Cornwall so special.
