The North Face Climb Festival 2026

Compete alongside some of the world’s best climbers in a spectacular Deep Water Solo event  with The North Face and be part of a unique celebration of climbing culture. Beyond the competition, connect with fellow athletes through workshops, community sessions and exclusive talks from some of the sport’s most influential figures, including Alex Honnold, Conrad Anker and more...

 

CLIMBING COMPETITIONS:

The Deep Water Solo qualifying rounds will take place on Friday 17th July for Men's & Women's, with the Deep Water Solo Quarter, Semi and Final rounds taking place on Saturday 18th July.

For all athletes competing - also those who do not qualify for the Quarter Finals on Saturday - there will be the chance to compete in a Dyno competition on Friday 17th July evening on a voluntary basis. 

Royal Victoria Docks 

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FAQs

Q: Who can apply to compete at Climb Festival 2026?

• Amateur climbers 18+ are allowed to enter the competition. Competition athletes should have a climbing ability level of 5.12+ and must be able to demonstrate strong swimming ability and confidence in deep water, including resurfacing after falls, treading water, and swimming safely to an exit point.

Q: What if I fall into the water during my climb?

• There's a place to change and dry off once you exit the water. If moving on to the next round, it's recommended to bring a different pair of dry shoes and clothes to change into. While dropping into the water is inherently risky, there is a water sfaety team and medic on standby for any potential issues. 

Q: What is the competition format? 

• There are 4 rounds:​ Qualifying Round : 120 climbers. Each Climber gets 1 chance to climb the wall. Your fastest time or highest climb will be recorded. The top 30 fastest times for men and women will move on to the next round.​ ​ Quarter Finals: 60 climbers. Each Climber will get 1 chance to climb the wall. The top 16 fastest times for men and women will move on to the next round.​ ​ Semi Finals: 40 climbers (20 men and 20 women) compete for top time or height competition ending in a head-to-head competition. ​ ​ Finals: 10 Fastest times per men and women will compete for the top 3 places. Official rules and regs will be available via the Athlete portal by the end of June.

Q: When should I arrive?

• Athletes should arrive from 8am each day to check in 
• Mandatory safety briefing at 9am each day, please ensure you are onsite at least 15 minutes before
• Detailed warm up schedule will be shared via the Athlete portal by end of June

Q: What do I need to bring with me?

• In a clear bag only, please bring the following: ​ ​ - Climbing shoes and chalk bags (as many as you require)​ - Change of clothes (as many as required)​ - Food and water (also available to purchase onsite)​ Water and snacks will be available free of charge within the athlete area - ID for check-in

Q: What athlete facilities will there be?

• Bathrooms, showers, and secure storage during active climbs.
• Sauna, Plunge pool and cold pool within the Athlete Recovery Zone
• Warm up equipment and tools
• Warm up wall on the barge behind the competition wall

Q: How do I get off the wall structure after climbing? 

• There are two ways:​ 1. You can jump into the water below.​ 2. Competitors can down climb to a lower point, hang and drop.​ 

Q: Is there a prize for winners?

• Both men and women top 3 Deep Water Solo competitors receive the following:​ ​ 1st place  £5,000​ 2nd place £3,000​ 3rd place £2,000

Q: Can the general public climb the wall?

• The competition wall is for registered competitors only. There will be opportunities for the general public to climb onsite throughout the duration of the festival on public bouldering walls. 

Q: Will there be food and drinks to buy? 

• Food and drink concessions including alcohol will be available onsite via local vendors. 

Q: Will the event continue in bad weather?

• Climb Festival 2026 is an outdoor event, in the case of overcast weather with rain, the event will go ahead. Please ensure you check the forecast before setting off to the venue and pack appropriate clothing. Safety precautions will be taken to ensure the wall is safe for climbing. 

Q: What is the location for Climb Festival 2026?

• The event village is infront of London City Hall (E16). The main access gate is located on the north side of the docks, close to Royal Victoria DLR and Custom House stations.

  What3words: ///sport.life.files

 

 

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Organized by: The North Face

The North Face Climb Festival 2026 is an event organised by The North Face.

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