The Arc (The Climbing Academy)

About

The Arc is a welcoming climbing centre in Chippenham offering bouldering, roped climbing and auto belays. All ages are welcome and over 70s climb free of charge. The site features a striking outdoor climbing wall, a free skatepark and a cafe which is open to the public 7 days a week, with views across Westmead from the bright interior or from extensive wooden decking – which is dog-friendly.

Bouldering is the easiest way to get into climbing. It is low-level climbing over mats without the use of harnesses. You do not need to book to go bouldering and you do not need to complete a course. Just come along and we’ll talk you through the rest. You can hire all equipment on site.

If you would like to try the ropes too, we offer one-off tasters for visitors to try all types of climbing in a fun intro session. We also run regular classes for kids, sociable sessions for parents with under 5s and roped climbing courses to get you started.

Climbing is a great sport for physical and mental health that can be enjoyed by all ages, making it perfect for a family day out. It’s a fun alternative to a gym providing a full body workout that can be tailored to suit your abilities. Walls of all angles offer varied challenges, from steep overhangs to balancy slabs. Climbing is an active way to build confidence, develop problem-solving, get fit and have loads of fun.

The Arc is fully wheelchair accessible.

We welcome birthday parties and other groups. Individuals can pay-per-visit or sign up for a monthly pass. We have a new member deal that offers a discounted first month of climbing. The Arc is part of The Climbing Academy which operates 3 centres in the southwest (The Mothership and The Church are in Bristol) and 2 in Glasgow. A climbing pass allows free entrance to all TCA centres at no extra charge.

The Arc cafe serves a range of hot and cold food including seasonal specials, burgers and pizzas all freshly made on-site, along with delicious coffee, cake and ice cream. The centre is adjacent to Westmead Open Space with beautiful walks and a wooden sculpture trail.

You don’t need to book to boulder and you don’t need to do a course. You just watch a safety video and sign forms. Under 16s must be supervised by a registered adult. Each adult can supervise up to 2 others per visit.

The Arc staff will give you a warm welcome and our cafe is open 7 days a week.

For more on this offer visit The Arc offers page.