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Most climbers know Staffordshire through the cliffs in the Moorlands around the Roaches which are at the heart of the Peak district.

Situated above Tittesworth Reservoir and Leek, the Roaches have become a hub for rock climbing due to their accessible and varied climbing routes, which are suitable for enthusiastic beginners through to the world-class climbers.

Photo: Getty Images

The rock formation climbs, which are mainly limestone, go as high as 1 and a half thousand feet. As you might expect at that height, there are great views, and you can even see as far as Snowdon in Wales on a clear day. The Roaches do get busy at the weekends, especially during summer with both climbers and walkers.

Some of the best craggs include:-

• Towards Buxton - Staiden Quarry, Harper Hill
• Towards Leek - Roaches, Hen Cloud, Ramshaw Rocks and Bach Forest
• To Ashbourne - Dovedale Crags, Beeston Tor
• To Monyash - Alderly Cliff, Matlock Crags

To find out more about climbing at the Roaches visit the websites on the right hand side of this page.

Equipment

There are many important pieces of safety equipment needed for climbing. The most obvious is a helmet, which protects you from stones and rocks falling on your head.

Most climbers also wear climbing shoes, though some prefer bare feet. Climbing shoes are very tight, with pointed toes, and are made of a kind of rubber. They are in fact usually made out of old aircraft tyres, because of the excellent grip which results.

Aside from clothing you'll need harnesses and ropes for safety when you climb. Equipment can be expensive and has to be replaced every few years, for safety reasons. A cheaper way of taking part in the sport is to join a proper club, which will provide kit.

Upper Limits indoor climbing wall

Indoor climbing centre

"Upper Limits" is the only indoor climbing wall in Staffordshire and is based in the pretty Peak Park village of Longor, near to many of the outdoor climbing hotspots.

The centre is run by Ken Weston, a climber with more than 35 years experience. It has training everyone - from absolute beginners to disabled to experienced climbers. You can learn basic and advanced climbing, caving, abseiling and even try your hand at archery!

You can contact the climbing wall by calling 01298 83149/83857 or email kweston@leek.ac.uk