UKC

So obviously we have a few chain stores but why are there no dedicated, independent climbing shops? Has there been any in the past that were unsuccessful? Only been in the South West for a few years so trying to get some info if anyone knows! Thanks.

In reply to climbhannahclimb:

I think dedicated climbing shops are the exception rather than the rule anywhere in the country. I can only think of a handful of places that match your criteria nationwide and even those have branched out into areas other than climbing gear.

In reply to Luke90:

Yeah branching out into other areas is pretty much a given but in terms of having a good range of stock from a large variety of brands seems few and far between? I like to look at it all and have a play rather than sitting at home online comparing. Shops seem to have just enough to get by. Correct me if I'm wrong!

In reply to climbhannahclimb:

This is a fine shop:

http://www.dicksclimbing.com

In reply to The Pylon King:

Thanks Pylon, ideally looking further SW, Cornwall/Devon, Bristol is a long way on public transport!

In reply to climbhannahclimb:

Unfortunately this great little shop is going
http://www.moorland-rambler.co.uk/

In reply to climbhannahclimb:

ok, although Bristol is SW

In reply to climbhannahclimb:

The Barn

In reply to climbhannahclimb:

Penrose outdoors in Truro, although the climbing side of that has fallen off in recent years - and it didn't help when Cotswold moved in right across the road.

Outback Trading in Helston, although I've not been in in a couple of years and climbing gear was very much a sideline in any case.

Martin

In reply to climbhannahclimb:

taunton leisure do a bit of climbing gear,based in taunton but have a shop in bristol and exeter too

great, thanks guys

In reply to climbhannahclimb:

Dart Rock Climbing Centre in Buckfastleigh keep some stock and can get in a good range. The great thing is the staff are all climbiers and can give great advice.

In reply to grump gnome:

I got my first rack from dartrock. I wish I could give more information but my memory has faded over the last 5 years. the owner knew i wanted to get into trad. Appeared one day with a bundle of kit (everything I needed to get started) and gave me a really really good price. Recommend massively!

Taunton leisure is good too, would stock everything the average climber would need.

Dicks climbing is also totally brilliant. I think he does free postage for orders over £50(?) or something. So save the money on public transport and get it sent to your door

In reply to maisie:


I can't understand how it never occurred to Penrose that it was they that should have moved onto Lemon Quay; they must get such little passing traffic there. It's a shame, the staff are good and friendly, the ski section is useful and I guess the only ski shop in Cornwall(?), but Cotswolds have completely stolen the march on them. Shame really, can't see them lasting.

In reply to climbhannahclimb:

another vite for Dicks

In reply to climbhannahclimb:

I too vouch for dicks, sure its in Bristol; but then you can go climbing in avon with you shiny new gear afterwards!

I've got all the gear I need, I just like playing with kit is all I've been meaning to get on the sport up there for a while so maybe it's time for a day trip!

In reply to climbhannahclimb:

Another vote for Dick's, Top bloke, BMC style discount as standard on all prices (for everyone, not just BMC members( discount already factored into his site prices), fast delivery too.