Beginner Rock
Climbing

Beginner climber ascending granite face at Trewavas Head in Cornwall

Beginner Climbing Cornwall

Cornwall is a great place to start climbing

Ready to try rock climbing for the first time? Whether you’re looking for fun things to do in Cornwall for adults or an unforgettable outdoor experience for families, our beginner climbing sessions are designed to make your first steps on the rock as easy and enjoyable as possible.

We usually climb at Trewavas Head, one of Cornwall’s most spectacular and beginner-friendly sea cliffs, with panoramic views and plenty of safe, accessible routes. If you’ve ever wondered how to start rock climbing as a beginner, this is the place to do it. On occasion, we may also visit other crags — including Roche Rock, a striking granite outcrop steeped in history and legend.

Young climber tackling a beginner-friendly granite crack at Trewavas Head
SAFE CHALLENGES FOR BEGINNERS

Climb Real Rock With Confidence

Take your first steps on the rock with easy, beginner-friendly climbs at Trewavas. Learn the basics in a supportive setting with expert instruction every step of the way.

Beginner abseiler descending a sea cliff in Cornwall with scenic ocean backdrop
ABSEIL YOUR FIRST CLIFF

Step Back Over the Edge

Experience the thrill of abseiling at one of Cornwall’s sea cliffs. It’s safe, beginner-friendly, and fully guided — perfect if you’re wondering how to start rock climbing.

Sea cliffs at Trewavas — stunning and accessible for beginner rock climbing in Cornwall
WILD COASTAL SCENERY

Climb by the Sea at Trewavas

Towering above the Atlantic, this unforgettable crag offers stunning views and an ideal setting for beginner climbing in Cornwall — no indoor wall compares.

If you’ve ever wondered how to start rock climbing as a beginner, this is the place to do it. Our expert instructors will get you on the rock quickly and safely, teaching you the fundamentals as you climb. Nervous? That’s normal — but you’ll be amazed how quickly your confidence grows with a rope above you and the right support behind you.

You don’t need any experience, special gear, or superhuman strength — just a sense of adventure. We’ll supply all the equipment, show you how it works, and guide you through everything step by step. You’ll build skills as you go, with plenty of encouragement and zero pressure.

The crags we use offer a wide range of routes, from gentle beginner climbs anyone can do, to harder challenges if you’re feeling brave. Whether you’re climbing solo, with friends, or bringing the whole family, sessions are relaxed, flexible, and tailored to your pace. Take on as much climbing as you like, or simply enjoy the stunning views, take photos, and soak up the wild Cornish atmosphere.

“Great day rock climbing with Matt. Fun and informative. Got us going with the basics and we were amazed by what we achieved. Highly recommend Matt for a great day of adventure.”

Andy R., April ’19

Try Rock Climbing by
the Sea in Cornwall 

Our beginner climbing courses are the perfect way to start rock climbing in Cornwall — with big views, great routes, and expert support.

Trewavas, Roche and Beyond – Cornwall’s Best Beginner Crags

We usually base our beginner rock climbing sessions at Trewavas Head, near Porthleven and Penzance — a spectacular sea-cliff venue with panoramic views, excellent access, and a variety of climbs ideal for all levels. With solid rock, a peaceful setting, and plenty of space to set up routes, it’s perfect for learning the ropes in a stunning and safe environment.

On request, we also run sessions at other venues — including Roche Rock in mid-Cornwall, a dramatic inland outcrop of granite steeped in Cornish myth and legend. These locations give us the flexibility to tailor each session to the group, the conditions, and the type of adventure you’re looking for.

Wherever we go, you’ll have the chance to climb several different routes, learning techniques along the way. We’ll cover the basics of movement, how to trust the rope, and, if you want to, some fundamental ropework skills such as belaying and tying in. Whether you’re climbing solo or with friends and family, it’s a fun, active day out in the wilds of Cornwall, with expert support every step of the way.

Want to know what it costs to get started? Check our full climbing prices here.

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Had a fantastic day climbing on the coast near Rinsey Head. Definitely the highlight of our trip! Thank you again Matt and we will be back.
Kylie C.
April, 2025
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We had a fantastic day climing with Matt. Being total climing newbies Matt put us at ease with his professional approach and knowledge.
Rob C.
March, 2023

Read reviews from beginner climbers.

Beginner Rock Climbing
in Cornwall

£75 per person

(full day activity)

The minimum age for Beginner Rock Climbing is 9-years-old. Note that children younger than 14 years of age must be accompanied by an adult to participate in any of our coasteering adventures.

Abseiling — Time to Go Over the Edge

No beginner climbing day is complete without trying a bit of abseiling. As well as being an essential rope skill, it’s a thrilling way to cap off your experience — and often a surprise highlight.

Whether you’ve abseiled before, maybe at a climbing wall or urban venue, or it’s your first go, stepping backwards off a Cornish sea cliff is something else entirely. The initial drop gives a rush of adrenaline, but it quickly gives way to calm focus as you ease yourself down the rock face, supported by the rope and coached every step of the way.

You’ll soon be grinning from ear to ear — and asking if there’s time for one more go.

Browse our climbing pictures.

Beginner climber making their way up a granite route in Cornwall
Young climber abseiling with instructor guidance on a sea cliff at Trewavas
Adult climber enjoying a relaxed route on the granite cliffs of Cornwall
Climber navigating a narrow granite chimney on a coastal crag in Cornwall
Beginner climber making their way up a granite route in Cornwall

Cornwall’s Rock Climbing Specialists

Kernow Coasteering is one of the leading providers of guided rock climbing in Cornwall. Whether we’re teaching first-timers or climbing for fun ourselves, you’ll often find us on the county’s sea cliffs, making the most of this incredible landscape.

We specialise in beginner-friendly outdoor climbing sessions — no experience needed, and no indoor walls in sight. If you’ve ever asked “Is climbing in Cornwall safe?” or “Do I need a guide for outdoor climbing?” — the answer is yes, and that’s exactly what we’re here for. We provide expert instruction, all the equipment, and access to some of the most scenic and adventurous crags in the region. You can also learn more about all our climbing sessions here.

Explore the rest of our site to learn more about our intermediate climbing courses, where you can build confidence on traditional gear, or take things further with our advanced climbing sessions, including lead climbing and classic multi-pitch routes along Cornwall’s spectacular sea cliffs. When you’re ready to get started, just message us to ask more and we’ll take care of the rest.

Have questions? We have answers!

Just book a session — we’ll take care of the rest. We provide all the gear, teach you how to use it, and introduce the key techniques you need to get started on real outdoor rock.

Our main beginner venue is Trewavas Head, near Porthleven, a stunning sea cliff with excellent beginner routes and incredible views. We occasionally use other crags by request — including the distinctive Roche Rock Cornwall’s inland climbing gem, a dramatic granite outcrop known for its striking setting and rich local folklore.

If you’re new to climbing, absolutely. Our guides don’t just manage safety — they make the experience more enjoyable by helping you learn skills, overcome fears, and get the most from your day on the cliffs.

Yes, we are passionate abChildren as young as 5 years old can join our beginner climbing sessions. We tailor each session to the group’s needs and abilities, so younger participants can enjoy a safe, supportive introduction to climbing.

Any climbers under 14 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.out rock climbing too! Embark on beginner climbing days or challenge yourself on Cornwall’s sea cliffs with our tailored climbing experiences.

Nothing — we provide everything. From harness and helmet to climbing shoes and ropes, it’s all included. Just bring comfortable clothes, water, and your sense of adventure.

If you’re thinking about getting your own kit, check out our guide: Everything You Need to Know About Buying Climbing Gear for Beginners.

It can look intimidating, but the routes we use are chosen to suit total beginners. With a rope above you and a guide beside you, you’ll be surprised how achievable and rewarding it can be.

 

Yes — especially with qualified guides. All our sessions are led by experienced instructors, using professional safety equipment and techniques. If you’re feeling nervous, we’ll help build your confidence at a pace that suits you.

Definitely. Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or as part of a couple, climbing is one of the most memorable and exciting things to do in Cornwall for adults — especially if you’re looking for something a little different.

Young climber smiling as she tops out on a beginner top rope route in Cornwall
Close-up of a climber’s fingers gripping a granite ledge on a rock climb
Boy stretching for the anchor chains on a chimney climb in Cornwall
Girl top-roping near the top of a broad sea cliff on Cornwall’s south coast