Come and make the most of the sunny south coast in the middle of summer!

If you’ve never tried DWS then Portland is a great spot to start. Access to the routes is easy, grades go down to sport 4+, and there are plenty of short routes over very deep water (including several traverses where you’re only just off the surface). Add to this high tides through the middle of the day, on both days and it’s like bouldering with a large, blue, splashy mat!

For those who want to push things a little harder, there are safe 3-star routes all through the grades, up to 7b+ (!).

Accommodation is within walking distance of the crag and if the sea state is not suitable for DWS there are plenty of sport climbing, walking and (rocky) beach options in the area, as well as trad. and other DWS options within an hour’s drive.

The Plan

Meet up at the accommodation on Friday night (although those who live closer are welcome to join us on Saturday morning). Climb Saturday and Sunday, before heading home Sunday afternoon / evening.

There are a large number of routes and grades at Portland Bill, so two days will give us plenty of time to explore. DWS is very much like bouldering, short intense bursts interspaced with chatting / recovering, so there will be plenty of time for swimming, paddle boarding and eating ice creams! There is also plenty of sport climbing in the area, if you want to mix it up.

What to bring

Swimmers, large beach towel, small hand towel, optional wetsuit, liquid chalk, climbing shoes, waterproof sun lotion, anything else you want for the beach (i.e. paddle board, snorkel, etc.)

Services

There is a supermarket on Portland, as well as plenty of pubs and takeaways. Portland Bunkhouse also has a kitchen and a BBQ area.

Accommodation

Lilla and I will be staying in the Portland Bunkhouse (http://www.portlandbunkhouse.com/index.php). At £17 per night and walking distance to the crag (as well as several sport climbing crags), what’s not to like?!

For those who would rather camp, there is a basic campsite just up the road, at Sweet Hill Farm (https://www.pitchup.com/campsites/England/South_West/Dorset/Portland/sweet-hill-farm/?type=4)

Food

If the weather allows then I will be making full use of the bunkhouse’s BBQ area on the Saturday night! There is also a fully equipped kitchen and plenty of takeaways and pubs.

Transport

Car is by far the easiest way to both get to Portland and around it. However, the nearest station is just over the causeway in Weymouth and so (if Covid allows) we could organise a pickup from there.

Details

Start: 30/31 July

End: 01 August

Organisers: Will & Lilla Beaumont

Venue: Portland Bunkhouse (DT5 2JT) & the cliffs near the Lobster Pot takeaway (DT5 2JT)