Swanage, Dorset.

This extensive area of cliffs and coastline offers a huge variety of routes, both trad and bolted. Climbing above the sea gives the whole experience an extra dimension. With many routes accessed by abseil, in some areas you need to be leading at least VS in order to climb back out again! However, there are many gentler areas, such as Subliminal, Cattle Troughs and the bolted lines at Hedbury quarry.

A general view along the coastline, showing the typical limestone nature of the cliffs.

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The very atmospheric Second Corner, Severe, at Subliminal.

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Pedestal Crack, Diff.

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Good gear placement is obviously crucial, so use rests such as arm bars and leaning wedges to save energy when placing runners.

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The rock appears to be a conglomerate in places, but is in fact very sound - generally!

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Ledges at the bottom of most routes allow you to belay in relative comfort, although this is not always the case.

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The cracks and corners, particularly in the easier grades, allow for plenty of gear placements.

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A great place to spend the end of the day.

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