Climbing and Caving for Kids: A Parent's Guide to Outdoor Adventures in the Peak District

Children are natural climbers and explorers. Give them a gritstone boulder or a cave passage and they'll be off before you've finished doing up their helmet. Climbing and caving build confidence, teamwork and resilience, and they're brilliant fun to do together as a family.

We've been running outdoor adventures for families and young people in the Peak District for over 20 years. Here are the questions parents ask us most.

How old do children need to be?

• Ages 4 to 12: children can take part through private bookings, with or without their parents. Our family taster is a half-day session on real rock for ages 4 and over, and we can also arrange private caving, biking and hiking days for families.
• Ages 13 and over: young people can join our standard courses that are open to the public, including climbing, bouldering, caving and navigation.
• Under 16s need a parent or guardian to complete a participation form before the course.

Our mountain biking courses are for adults (18 and over), but we can arrange private family rides.

Courses for ages 13 and over

Is it safe?

Yes. Safety comes first on everything we do. Pure Outdoor is licensed by the Adventure Activities Licensing Service (licence R2331) to work with under 18s, all our instructors are qualified and experienced with young people, and we hold full public liability insurance. We keep groups small, choose venues to suit the age, ability and weather, and provide all the technical and safety equipment.

What's a family climbing session like?

We'll meet at The Adventure Hub in Bamford, sort out helmets, harnesses and shoes, then head to a friendly gritstone crag with short climbs and a safe area at the bottom. The instructor sets up ropes and teaches everyone the basics, then it's time to climb. Younger children often love the challenge of reaching the top, and many finish with an abseil. Parents can climb too, or help with the belaying under the instructor's supervision.

What about caving?

Caving is a fantastic family adventure, especially in wet weather. It's a steady temperature underground all year, and children love the crawls, squeezes and stalactites. We choose beginner-friendly caves with walking-sized passages and give everyone an oversuit, wellies, a helmet and a headtorch. For families with children under 13, ask us about a private trip. Read our caving for beginners guide to see what's involved.

What should children wear and bring?

• Comfortable, stretchy clothes they can move in (no jeans), plus warm layers and a waterproof
• Trainers or walking boots
• A packed lunch, snacks and a drink
• For caving: synthetic layers rather than cotton, warm socks and a change of clothes for afterwards

We provide all the specialist kit.

Tips for a great day

• Keep it fun. There's no pressure to reach the top. Every bit of progress counts.
• Let them lead. Children often surprise their parents with how brave they are.
• Bring treats. A snack at the top of the crag goes a long way.
• Book a private session if you'd like the day built entirely around your family.

Ready for an adventure?

See our family activities in the Peak District or give us a call on 01433 424164 and we'll help you plan a day around your family and where you're staying. Running a school or youth group? See our schools and youth groups page.