The crags are probably the most heavily used in the country. It consists of a thin weathered crust over lightly compacted sand. Once the crust has been worn away, rapid erosion occurs. Climbs are done using a top rope, or solo. Due to the softness of the rock, careful positioning of the rope and belay are necessary as any weighted rope moving over the rock will cause immediate and permanent damage.
Some crags have unique environmental features.
Climbing is monitored by English Nature, the government conservation agency, which has legal powers to protect these sites and, if necessary, to restrict or ban climbing in the event of damage to the rock or its environment. In order to preserve the fragile sandstone environment, and to respect the right of others to enjoy these crags, please follow this code at all times. THE ROCK Malicious Damage 1. Do not deface the rock in any way, for example by carving graffiti, chipping new holds or enlarging existing holds. Always wear soft-soled footwear.