LET'S GET THE NATION CLIMBING

Perfect for family days-out
Beginner climber friendly
Loved by seasoned climbers
As seen in
Why we exist

Our bold mission

Substation was born out of the aligned love for the great outdoors between two friends.

Our founders, Sam & Si, are two Northerners with a passion for outdoor fitness, mountain biking and adventure. As epic as their hobbies were, there was the reality of UK weather commonly being wet and dark so they were driven to explore some indoor alternatives, which is where they truly discovered bouldering. The experience of indoor climbing immediately captured their core interest as a brilliantly unique activity that celebrates community where novices can climb side by side with experts.

Now Sam & Si will be the first to put their hands up and admit to not being climbing pros, by any stretch, but with a true belief in the power of climbing bringing people together and being a huge asset to their physical and mental health; Substation was created.

Keeping it ethical

It ain't easy being green, but the world (and your great grandkids) will thank you for it. We believe that normal folk can only do so much, and that businesses should shoulder much of the responsibility.

Here's just a few ways that we dedicate ourselves to being as environmentally conscious as possible.

Minimise single-use plastics
We reuse our holds where possible
We pay at least a fair, living wage, to all our employees
We're powered by a green energy company
All clothing is 100% organic
...plus loads more. just ask.

food, friends & fitness

Our customers have met some of their besties (and partners!) on our walls. Great environments make for great memories and that's why our promotions are deliberately structured to encourage bringing a pal.

Like anyone's gran will tell you, everything's better on a full stomach - which is why we partner with some of the best to offer sustainable and locally sourced food at our venues. Keep those belly rumbles at bay.

Varied levels & newbie friendly
Hot & Cold food on-site

a home away from home (kinda)

Eat
Work
Play

Prepare yourself for jealous colleagues

Say hello to the coolest hot-desking space since that time you had to take a business meeting mid-holiday in Italy. We've got just about everything you could need to hate work that little bit less:

Piping hot artisan coffee
Speedy & stable public Wi-Fi
The nearby sound of people having fun
Snacks at arms reach

Nothing beats a quick climb between calls. I genuinely feel that its helped me become more productive.

★★★★★

Why climbers love it here

Excellent

Called in to take alook at what all the fuss was about - and can highly recommend it! Food offering is excellent and the staff could not be more helpful. Had a tour around the climbing area and yoga studio. The facilities are excellent and the place has a real vibe about it.

— Ben
★★★★★

Amazing Centre

Great climbing centre with passionate staff. The cafe offers a great selection of food and drink, either for a mid climb refresh or as a destination in its own right. Substation seems to do a good job as there's a refreshing mix of familiar & fresh faces that keeps the energy high.

— Doug C
★★★★★

A fave

I've been here 6 times in the last year with family and friends and it gives me a real buzz. The climbing routes are varied for ability which make for interesting challenges. Resets often enough make each visit a bit different and the space is big enough that you don't get bored. Highly recommend!

— Michelle
★★★★★