Dear climbers,

I hope that you’ve been enjoying the new facilities that we’ve developed this year: the New Lead Area, Comp Wall, Outside Boulders and, of course, the long-awaited Loft Wall and Loft Boulder.  I know that I’ve been enjoying it! We’ve also built a Roundhouse in the Garden and developed our new website.  I’ve had so many people come and tell me how great they think the new areas are and how proud to be part of the Castle because of its atmosphere and its values. That encouragement means a lot to me- thank you.

Developing the new walls inevitably caused some disruption and area closures, but that’s all in the past. The good news is that the next phase of development (yes, there’s more!) shouldn’t be so disruptive. We are presently designing The Wells, four new tall wall areas in the Engine House below the current Café level floor- three of which will be dedicated lead areas and one which will have up to six autobelays. We expect to open the first room in Spring 2014.

I’m very proud to work for a company that is built around the core values of Quality, Sustainability and Integrity. Our vision is not to just make more and more money, but to be a better climbing centre, a better employer and a better neighbour. Instead of just pulling the profits out of the company, we’ve always heavily re-invested so that we can maintain the highest standards and give you, our customers, the best experience whether that’s in the Climbing Centre, the Café or the Shop.

In order to achieve this we do need to review our prices regularly. From 1 January 2014 there will be a slight increase to most of our payment plans of around 2%. Direct Debit, our most popular payment plan will be increasing from £45 to £47 per month.  This will enable us to continue our pace of development so that you have more climbing walls to enjoy next year. We’re also going to upgrading our entry system and online booking system to make it quicker and easier for you to get climbing. 
We’ll continue to organise events for our local and community such as the Garden Party, Xmas party, climbing competitions, masterclasses and gear/boot demos.  Uniquely for our industry, sustainability is at the core of every decision we make and we continue to make progress towards our 2015 Environmental Targets.  By continuing to support The Castle, you are helping us achieve this.

Thank you and happy climbing in 2014!

Audrey Seguy, Managing Director