Reach new heights at Warrington's climbing centre in a church

There are plenty of places to work up a sweat in Warrington, but only one where you can do it beneath the roof of a church. The Northwest Face, based at St Ann's Church on Winwick Road, has become the town's go-to indoor climbing centre, and its unusual setting is only part of the appeal.

Inside, the scale is impressive. The centre offers around 14,000 sq ft of climbing terrain, with a 50ft lead wall carrying 24 lines and some 80 routes. In total there are 54 climbing lines, covering top ropes and lead climbing, along with eight auto belays that let climbers practise without a partner holding the rope. For those who prefer to stay closer to the ground, a spacious bouldering area of around 100 square metres offers shorter, punchier problems over thick matting.

What makes the Northwest Face stand out, though, is its welcoming atmosphere. The centre prides itself on being friendly to climbers of every ability, from complete beginners trying the sport for the first time to experienced climbers training for trips to the crag. Courses are available for those who want to learn the ropes properly, and there is gear to hire for anyone who has not yet invested in shoes and a harness.

Families are well catered for, too. Kids' climbing clubs run for children aged six and over, and the centre hosts birthday parties, making it a popular choice for young climbers who would rather scale a wall than sit through another soft-play party.

Climbing has enjoyed a surge in popularity in recent years, helped by its arrival at the Olympics, and indoor centres have become social spaces as much as training grounds. At the Northwest Face, a shop and café mean there is somewhere to refuel and compare notes after a session.

Its location, a short hop from Warrington town centre, also makes it easy to reach for climbers across the borough and the wider Cheshire area, and generous opening hours mean it fits around the working week. The centre is open from 10am to 10pm on weekdays and from 10am to 6pm at weekends.

Sessions can be booked by calling 01925 650022, and more information is available at northwestface.com.