X3 New Development Coming Soon

New Development Coming Soon

Work has started on the newly discovered Crag X3. Dave has visited the quarry twice recently. The quarry is formed from sandstone of the Brithdir Beds, which is very hard and massively bedded, meaning it contains very few horizontal breaks. Two bolt lines (a crack line and a chimney) have already been placed (estimated Fr. 5c) and gardening has revealed the potential for at least four more routes, upto Fr. 6c, upto a maximum height of 80ft.

The quarry is still in a very dangerous state with television-size boulders still coming off with little more than a light touch, and consequently were keeping the location a secret until these have been dealt with.

We'll keep you updated.

Updated X1 Topos

Spiderman Open for Business

As work progresses at X1, the impressive Spiderman overhang is finally open for business! This has got to be one of the most formidable overhangs in South Wales and would challenge the more stalwart amongst us.

Any takers?

Barland Quarry, Bishopston one Autumn Morning

Barland quarry is a hidden gem!

Located just off the road between Bishopston & Kittle just before you reach the surf shop (not sure what its called) the entire face is pure slab pocked with erosion. Some places were smear heaven whilst others caused a few fried eggs as we slid off. There are numerous short jaunts to the left of the main face which we had a couple of hours slugging up with a couple of optimistic dynos thrown in.

The main climb shoots right up the centre where there is a short respite from a small ledge. From here a summit attempt can be mounted. Dave took the lead first but after cocking a leg onto the overhang lost his mojo and belayed down to recover! Luckily he'd placed some gear just above the overhang so when I launched myself up it I was relatively safe. Still, scary climb though, as there is little for the fingers to grip. We had an awesome time here anyway and would recommend it to middle of the range climbers, maybe a little advanced for complete beginners though. Mental!

Please note that no formal permission has been gained to enter the quarry so climbers should keep a low profile!