alien rock.

Top rope and lead climbing wall

alien rock is our original wall, first opened in 1994. We have a dedicated top rope and lead area and up to 200 routes ranging from 3+ and above.

We offer hire equipment including shoes, harnesses, and belay devices. Our on-site coffee shop provides a convenient spot to relax and refuel between climbs.

ALIEN ROCK AND THE ALIENS

alien rock combines a fantastic selection of climbing surfaces that all fit ingeniously into the vaulted ceiling of the former church building. Many of the features were handcrafted on-site and are truly unique.

The wall was built by the three partners: Steve, Malcolm and Reuben, with some assistance by a few friends and local climbers and opened on 2nd April 1994. Before holds were commercially available all the original bolt-on holds were handmade on-site in a cement mixer!

Climbers visit us for our welcoming atmosphere, unique setting and awesome team. Not to mention the famous heating system that keeps us warm and cosy during the harsh winter months!

When it first opened, alien was the first dedicated climbing wall in scotland. Today we are your local independent climbing wall in Edinburgh.

Join our friendly community of climbers and become an “alien”

Top rope climbing

Plenty of routes for everyone. Each line has three distinct colour-coded routes to the top.

Lead climbing

For those climbers with more experience, the 12 overhanging lead lines provide a greater challenge.

Warm up area

There is nothing more old school than our bouldering room… a good place for a quick warm up while you wait for your climbing partner!

Cafe

An integral part of climbing: coffee, soft drinks, flapjacks and snacks are available in our cafe area.

Viewing area

Take a break between climbs or keep an eye on the kids during their sessions.

Shop

We have a small shop with all the essentials to get you started and keep climbing.

Rope climbing at alien rock

Independent climber?

There's no need to book ahead. Simply drop in with your climbing partner, say hello, and we'll get you started with the necessary paperwork. Check out our pricing and restrictions below.

New to climbing?

Our experienced instructors will help you get started! We have a link for all our courses down at the bottom of the page or you can check out our how to get started page.

If you are not sure or have questions about accessibility, don’t hesitate to give us a call, we are always happy to help.

Registration

Registration is free, all climbers must register at reception and new climbers must fill in a registration waiver (no need to book in advance).

As a registered member, you can supervise up to two beginners.

Age restrictions

  • Over 18: Can climb if they are members or are supervised by a member.
  • Between 14–17: Can climb if they have completed a parental consent form or are supervised by a member.
  • Under 14: Can climb only if supervised by a member.
  • Minimum age: Children must be supervised at all time on the floor by an adult.

Supervising parents

If you are belaying and not climbing, you can access the wall free of charge. Harness hire for belayers is also free of charge.

Prices and memberships

One pass, two centres!

All our day passes give you unlimited access to both centres within the same day. alien bloc and rock are only 10 minutes apart by bike. You can boulder, top rope and lead all on the same day!
PEAK
after 16:00 weekdays and all times at weekends.
OFF PEAK
before 16:00 weekdays.
ADULT
£13.00
£11.00
CONCESSION

"CONCESSION" are persons over 60, full time students and those
unemployed. Proof of status required.

CONCESSION
"CONCESSION" are persons over 60, full time students and those unemployed.
Proof of status required.
CONCESSION
"CONCESSION" are persons over 60,
full time students and those unemployed.
Proof of status required.
£11.50
£9.50
UNDER 16
£8.00
£7.50
BOOT HIRE
£3.50
£3.50
HARNESS HIRE
FREE
FREE

Monthly membership

Our monthly membership is perfect for dedicated climbers. Membership includes a month of unlimited climbing at both of our centres, along with exclusive offers on courses. A no frills rolling membership, free to set up at either of our centres and free to cancel at any time.
30 days pass non-recurring
£60
Monthly membership
£45

Manage your membership

If you already have a membership, use this link to access your account, update details and see past transactions.

Opening times

alien rock
Monday – Friday: 10.00 am – 10.00 pm

Saturday - Sunday: 10.00 am - 7.00 pm

Courses and groups

We offer a wide range of courses for any level, from complete beginners to seasoned climbers, for individuals or groups. Check out all our climbing courses or give us a call for more information.

Kids activities

We organise taster sessions, courses, parties and, for the more dedicated climber, a regular kids’ club. Find out how to get started with our short guide.
How to find us

There is plenty of free parking outside the building as well as bike racks and a slipway! 

If you could use a bit of extra guidance on how to find us, or have questions about our accessibility, give us a call on 0131 552 7211

A few more shots…