Boulder Hut

Boulder Hut, now known as Climbing Hut, operates an indoor bouldering and climbing center in Ellesmere Port, with another location in Shrewsbury. The company was founded in 2016 by climbing enthusiasts Samantha Oxford and her former partner Antony White, who combined their passion for the sport to establish the facility. The project was brought to fruition through various funding efforts, including a successful equity crowdfunding campaign on Crowdcube in 2017 that raised over £386,000, and a £70,000 loan from MSIF.

The business operates as a leisure facility providing a comprehensive climbing experience for all ages and abilities. The Ellesmere Port center, housed in a 17,000 sq ft unit, features over 1,000 square meters of climbing space, including a 44-meter competition wall, and more than 250 climbing routes. Its business model centers on pay-per-session fees and membership subscriptions, with options like the "Ultimate Bouldering Pass" offering unlimited access. The facility caters to a wide range of clients, from toddlers in the "Boulder Zoo" and "Boulder Play" areas to experienced climbers and competitive athletes. They also offer structured sessions like kids' clubs, parties, beginner socials, and autism-friendly sessions.

A key feature is the color-coded grading system for climbing routes, allowing users to track their progress. The center also includes a plant-based café serving vegetarian and vegan food, and a retail shop. Initially launched as Boulder Hut, the company aimed to be the first dedicated bouldering center in the area and now operates under the Climbing Hut brand, with plans for expansion.

Keywords: bouldering center, indoor climbing, climbing gym, leisure facilities, rock climbing, Ellesmere Port, Shrewsbury, climbing instruction, kids climbing, Boulder Zoo, competition climbing, climbing membership, adaptive climbing, vegetarian cafe, family activities, recreational facilities, physical fitness, climbing training, group climbing, Crowdcube funded