KIDS | Previews
CLIMBING CLIP 'N' CLIMB Edinburgh International Climbing Arena, Ratho
It’s a bold claim to say anything works for ages 4–84, especially a physical activity. But Clip ’n’ Climb is nothing if not bold. It’s unlikely they’ll have many octogenarians knocking on their door, but the new arrival at Edinburgh International Climbing Arena certainly has a broad appeal.
Having not climbed since I was a teenager, my levels of fear and excitement pre-climb were well matched. Similarly my 13-year-old daughter, a climbing newbie, was swinging wildly between curiosity and sheer terror. Sufi ce to say, her i rst words the following morning were: ‘I wish I was climbing.’
If you’ve never been to the EICA at Ratho, prepare to be awestruck. Built in a former quarry, Europe’s largest indoor climbing arena is a sight to behold, with walls that just go up and up. Tucked cleverly into one corner, Clip ’n’ Climb is far more palatable for the novice climber or younger visitor. Each of the 15 colourful walls presents its own challenge, some easier than others. ‘The Trifi d’, for example, looks great but is tough to get hold of, while ‘The Big Cheese’ (my personal fave) offers smooth grips and easy footholds.
Within seconds of our brief safety talk i nishing, the
fearless under-tens are scaling the walls with ease, likewise the brave teens. Due to trust issues, grown-ups take a little longer to truly believe the rope and harness will hold our weight as we push back into nothing. But, of course, it does. The more courageous you feel, the higher you go and the greater the sense of achievement.
Knowing the informative, and endlessly encouraging instructors are on-hand to clip and unclip you is a constant source of comfort. Not everyone will have the energy, skill, strength and love of heights to conquer all the walls in an hour, but that’s what repeat visits are for. We’ll be back. (Kelly Apter)
Edinburgh’s international children’s festival
(cid:116) The world’s best theatre and dance for children and young people (cid:116) 14 shows from 9 different countries (cid:116)(cid:1)Exciting programme for all ages (cid:116) Family tickets @ £8 per person Pick up a programme in venues around Edinburgh or go to imaginate.org.uk
FAMILY FRINGE OPENING WEEKEND (28-29 May) at the National Museum of Scotland Performances and free activities all day - perfect for primary-aged kids
76 THE LIST 7 Apr–2 Jun 2016