Our Story

City Bloc was born in 2009, when Ben Meeks (CEO) and fellow GB climbing alumnus worked together to bring Leeds very first bouldering wall. The vision was to create an awesome place for climbers to train with their friends. Climbing without ropes offers a more sociable approach to improving fitness, even for those with no intention to ever climb outdoors.

Our original walls are a product of our founders’ extensive climbing experiences, gained from competing worldwide. In 2020, we decided to expand our offerings by adding a dedicated competition-style room and a gym. This expansion showcased our commitment to creating a vibrant, social, and versatile space for climbers of all stripes.

Everything from the training area and comp wall, to investment in the latest holds is presented through the knowledgeable lens of Ben, who has competed, coached and routeset in the industry for the last 20 years.

City Bloc is an inclusive space that caters for the complete beginner, right through to members of the GB Climbing Team. Quality route setting means there’s a problem to solve no matter what the level. For the most experienced climbers, our competition style route setting challenges ability and encourages creativity. The friendly team love to share their knowledge, so hints and tips are up for grabs to those that want them.

City Bloc is 100% independently owned, giving it its authentic feel and unique aesthetic. Climbing is at the heart of everything we do, which gives soul to the ever growing City Bloc community we have today.

Looking back at City Bloc

We’ve been going since 2009…. here are some bits of footage from early on….

Bloc Party

Our in-house competition Bloc Party is renowned … drawing talent from across the Country. Here are our highlights from 2021!