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  • BBC Breakfast covers the growth of indoor climbing with CEO Kath Hipwell

BBC Breakfast covers the growth of indoor climbing with CEO Kath Hipwell

  • February 11, 2026
Estimated read time: 1 minute

The growth of indoor climbing and bouldering is gaining more media attention with some exciting BBC Breakfast coverage today. ABC CEO Kath Hipwell was interviewed about the rise of climbing’s popularity, and the ease and accessibility of the sport nationwide.

Kath talked about how easy it is for anyone to get started in climbing thanks to the expansion of climbing facilities, quoting the large increase in walls across the country. The ABC’s “Find a Wall” feature was also referenced to help viewers find a climbing gym near them.

Climber numbers are at a record high and still growing amongst both adults and children. Unlike many sports, climbing draws just as many girls as boys – and is more popular amongst children than skateboarding, roller skating and roller blading combined.

Also featuring Olympic climber Erin McNeice and Depot Manchester manager Sian Chorley, the story was a great demonstration of the continued growth of climbing.

Watch the feature on BBC iPlayer today (11th February – appearing at around 6.45am and 8.53am) or see our clip compilation here.

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