NOT SO TRAD, Southern Lesbian & Gay Climbers are a gay and lesbian climbing club, largely based in London but with members spread across the south of England.

We are a very friendly group of climbers of all ages, grades and aspirations. The group is mixed; at the moment we have as many women as men. We welcome all gay, lesbian, bi-sexual and transgender climbers and their friends to enjoy climbing in a fun and friendly atmosphere and to progress in the sport.

NOT SO TRAD are into all styles of climbing: trad climbing (leader placed protection), sport climbing, alpine climbing and bouldering, as well as top-roping on southern sandstone. We trad climb, but we are NOT SO TRAD.

NOT SO TRAD developed from a club based within the Gay Outdoor Club. However the members felt that a closer association with the British Mountaineering Council (BMC) was an important part of our development as a club. In particular we wanted to have a visible presence of lesbian and gay climbers within the larger institution that is the BMC, as well as to support BMC activities and campaigns.

Our main meet is weekly at THE CASTLE climbing wall in North London, followed by a swift social in the local pub. As well as our regular indoor meetings, NOT SO TRAD have a program of weekend or longer trips each year including Portland, Wales, Lake District, Cornwall, Peak District as well as at least one international trip. Most trips take place in the summer, and involve camping. On weekday evenings during the summer we include after-work trips to Kent, to hone skills before the essential pint in the pub and last train home. We also have social events, such as barbeques, trips to the cinema or just a pint. All our events are great fun to join, whatever your level of experience.

NOT SO TRAD were recently featured in Climber magazine. To check out the article and get personal perspective from one of our members, click here.

If you are interested in joining NOT SO TRAD, look through this website, read our FAQ and check out our JOIN US page for contacts and details about how to get involved.