Fairlop Waters - Boulder Park

 

 

London Climbing Guides opinion



Fairlop Waters Bouldering Park is somewhat of an enigma, not much information can be found and it doesn't really have a dedicated website! We have managed to pull together some information about this unique outdoor bouldering park, set in the picturesque Fairlop Waters in Redbridge. The boulder park consists of nine individual man-made boulders, jam packed with decent routes. This really is a must for any London climber and best of all it's completely free to access!

 

We have been to Fairlop Water's Boulder Park recently and updated the Gallery, we also have written a blog about our day.

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Climbing at Fairlop Waters - Boulder Park 



The Boulder Park is the UK’s largest boulder park and is based in the London Borough of Redbridge, a stones throw from Fairlop tube station on the Central Line. The Boulder Park consists of nine individual boulders which are constructed in sprayed and carved concrete. The boulders are built from concrete and vary in heights and shapes to cater for all standards from novice to expert. They are all designed for solo climbing and are a great place to practice bouldering and traversing skills. 

 

Getting there

 

Conveniently situated on the East end of the Central Line (one stop before Hainault), Fairlop Waters Boulder Park is easily accessible from London. From Liverpool Street it took us about 35mins. When you exit Fairlop Tube take a left under the bridge and walk down the main road for about 1/2 a mile. Fairlop Waters is on the right hand side of the road and you can't miss it. From the main entrance swing a left where you will see the Boulder Park sign, walk down the track with the water to your right and you will pass by a few outdoor play area's. After a few hundred yards you will see another sign outlining the risks of climbing on the boulders (read the sign carefully). The boulders are dotted around behind the trees just to the right of the sign. 

 

Other information

There is a small club house connected to the golf course where you can by drinks and snacks, but they dont serve food. Plus it's a long walk to the town if you need anything, so come prepared with any essentials, first aid kit and all your bouldering equipment.

 

There is gravel shingle under all of the boulders which does provide minimal protection from falls, however Fairlop Waters takes no responsibility for any injuries sustained whilst climbing. So as always climb within your ability and take precautions when climbing - i.e. wear the right clothing, shoes, use chalk and make use bouldering mats etc.

 

 

Map, Routes and Grades

 

​Grades at the boulder park range from a very easy f1 up to about a f6a on

The Font scale.

 

Boulders ​​

A. The Magical Mushroom Boulder

B. The Prominent Prow

C. The Arches

D. Dumbo the Elephant

E. The Enormous Roofed Block

F. Fairy's Cave

G. Twin Peaks

H. The Petit Block

I. The Final Boulder



Check out the Fairlop Water Boulder Park Mini Guide for detailed information on

routes set on each of the boulders