FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

We truly care about the quality and value of the experience you will get from us – from enquiry stage, all the way through to the completion of your activity or course. We’re always striving to give you reasons to book with Rock and Moor again and again!

This is something our lovely clients have taken time to comment on in reviews which can be found on Tripadvisor, Google and Facebook. We’re very grateful! It’s a joy to build such a great community of guests, who experience, learn and fulfil ambitions with us.

We keep our maximum group sizes small, so that you gain the most from your time with us, and so we can focus on personalising your experience as much as possible. This way your activity or course will be taken at your pace, to suit your level of confidence and skills (without too much hanging about or queuing!) Specialising in tailor-made private courses means we offer high quality activities, of exceptional benefit to our clients, and at great value.

Our guide/instructor Mike Roberts is one of the most highly qualified around (MCI, RCDI, MLS, VCL, LCLA, IRATA L3) and has several decades of experience. You couldn’t be in safer hands, and his depth of knowledge is superb.

From beginner taster sessions to advanced skills courses, Mike has the expertise and knowhow to make excellent judgements, answer questions, and tailor activities to best suit your individual goals.

Mike’s combination of Mountaineering and Climbing Instructor (MCI), Vertical Cave Leader (VCL), IRATA Level 3 qualifications, together with past and present membership of the Dartmoor Search & Rescue Team and Devon and Mendip Cave Rescue Teams is unique. His depth of knowledge and lifelong passion for the activities we provide is inspirational.

Mike is a member of the MTA (Mountain Training Association) and AMI (Association of Mountain Instructors), with First Aid qualification and insurance always up to date.

Meanwhile, behind the scenes, Helen Cox is the most enthusiastic person you can imagine about helping other people to get outside and enjoy the outdoors. She has been passionate about the activities herself, from childhood. She prides herself in giving excellent service, and will do all she can to ensure everything runs smoothly for our guests, with all questions answered in a timely manner. You are a person to us, not simply another client, and we love to help facilitate your adventures and skill progressions through time.

Rock and Moor is based in beautiful South Devon, England. Owners Helen and Mike are Devon born, and despite travelling widely in the UK, living in and exploring places around the World, they are deeply rooted in this stunning area. Learn more about us here!

Most of our activities are located on or around Dartmoor National Park and the South Devon Coast of Devon. However, we also cover North Devon, Cornwall, Somerset, Dorset and mountainous areas of the UK.

To book an activity or course with Rock and Moor, please contact us to discuss what you’d like to do, and when.

It is helpful if you can let us know any relevant details such as:

• What activity or course is of most interest to you (or if you need help deciding, that’s fine too!)
• Who will be in your party (with ages of any children)
• Any notes about your previous experience
• What you’d like to gain from the activity or course
• Dates that would suit you

We can then discuss, coordinate diaries and make a plan!

Of course, we would be very happy to help with any questions you may have at any time. We aim to create the perfect experience to suit you.

Unless otherwise specified, our activities and courses are booked on a private basis, to maximise the quality of your time with us, and allowing us to personalise the content to meet your requirements.

We offer activities and courses from beginner, intermediate and advanced level. Individuals, families, small groups and all ages can be catered for. If you are unsure which activity or course would suit you best please contact us and we will be very happy to advise.

The courses shown on our website are suggestions, but they can be adapted to suit your individual interests and goals. We tailor the experience to your level of experience, skill and confidence.

If you would like a longer or shorter course duration, or would like to book a combination of several types of activities, please just let us know!

As we specialise in bespoke courses and activities, unless otherwise stated, it will be run on a private basis for you, and anyone else you invite to join you. As such, you may book as an individual adult, multiple adults, or as a family group – it’s up to you!

Any children need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

All of our activities and courses are suitable for children.

For Rock Climbing and Abseiling, generally we’re able to choose a venue and tailor activities to suit the child’s confidence and ability. For very young children it totally depends on their level of confidence and understanding on the day. We’ve had some 4yr olds who love climbing and can’t get enough – and others who just aren’t into it at all, despite encouragement on the easiest options.

For Adventure Caving, if children are fairly able and outdoorsy, they should be fine caving. Very rarely, children/adults get to the entrance of a cave and decide it’s just not for them. If they are happy to go through the entrance, they will usually continue to thoroughly enjoy the adventure! Pridhamsleigh Cavern and Goat Church Cavern are suitable for all ages (mobility is the key factor). The suitability of Bakers Pit Cave depends largely on prior caving experience and the ability to closely follow instruction, as this is a conservation cave. Swildon’s Hole caving trips have a minimum age of 10yrs as this can be quite a strenuous and committing activity (particularly the Full Trip to Sump 1). Please contact us to discuss if unsure!

On our Navigation Courses, we try to make it as much fun and engaging as possible for children. Children over 8yrs or so are likely to gain more from the course than very young children.

Hill Walking and Mountaineering activities involve a certain level of stamina, and this can vary with the individual child. We will be happy to discuss this with you and tailor the activity accordingly.

Our courses are operated on a private basis, unless otherwise specified. We like to be as inclusive as possible, and will always endeavour to design your course or activity to best suit the age ranges, interests and abilities of participants.

Please remember that each child will need a parent or legal guardian with them. This person can either participate or observe their child/ren rock climbing, but would need to participate in activities that involve moving over a wider area such as caving, navigation, hill walking and mountaineering.

We strive to provide safe and enjoyable courses and activities, where you gain a lot from your time with us. We want you to be happy and have a fun and rewarding experience.

Of course, in the UK we can’t guarantee the perfect weather on every occasion! However, we will use our experience and do all we can to choose the best location to take advantage of the most favourable conditions according to the weather forecast at the time. This does mean that some flexibility regarding the location is important.

Most activities can continue safely on a wet weather day – indeed caving in Pridhamsleigh and Bakers Pit in Devon can go ahead in all weather. However, if you are booked to go on a surface-based activity or to go caving in an active streamway cave and the forecast is truly dire and/or dangerous, we will be sure to discuss alternative options with you.

If you’ve never been climbing outdoors with ropes before, and want to get a feel for the basics, you might like to try a half or full day Rock Climbing & Abseiling Taster, or Guided Climbing Day (or two!)

If you’ve already got the hang of belaying, perhaps from time spent at an indoor climbing wall, and want to get off the plastic onto real rock, or join a climbing club, you would likely benefit from a two day Safe Second Course.

As with all our courses, these are normally run on a private basis, and we will help you progress your skills and enjoy some great rock climbing routes as much as possible in the time available. Please contact us to discuss your ambitions!

If you’d like to improve your rock climbing skills, we offer several course suggestions to suit every level, and help you learn.

If you want to ensure you’ve nailed the basics, please check out our rock climbing fundamentals courses. Depending on which you choose, these will help your confidence with seconding skills, refresh your current knowledge and ensure you’re up to speed with current best practice, or simply spend time improving on your current skill set – from whatever level you’re currently at.

Our Learning the Ropes courses focus on top rope and abseiling rigging, helping you safely set up your own climbs as part of an independent partnership.

If you’d like to Learn to Lead Climb, we cover the skills necessary for Sport Climbing, Trad Climbing and Sea Cliff Climbing.

For more Advanced Outdoor Ropework, we have Technical Rigging, Belay Masterclass and Improvised Self Rescue courses.

Should you wish to focus on a particular aspect of your climbing, we offer several Climbing Workshops. These work on whichever aspects you feel may be holding you back, whether that be your movement techniques, head game when it comes to height or falling, ability to place and judge good gear placement for protection, learning which knot to use when and more.

In the end of the day, all our courses are run privately for you (unless otherwise specified) and the content can be designed as a Bespoke Rock Climbing Course based on your interests and ambitions. We’ll be very happy to discuss the possibilities with you!

We will provide all of the essential rock climbing and abseiling equipment that you need to participate. If you have your own, you are very welcome to bring it with you.

All you need to bring is comfortable clothing appropriate to the day. It is always worth packing a warm layer and waterproofs. If you have climbing shoes, please bring those, or trainers to climb in if you don’t.

You will also need to bring a drink, any snacks, and a packed lunch if it’s a full day activity.

Do please contact us if you have any questions!

We don’t have any minimum or maximum age limits for rock climbing courses, and can take family groups comprised of several ages – no problem! Multi-generational activities are great way to create memories together!

The rock climbing / abseiling taster session or course will be tailored to your party.

For rock climbing and abseiling, all children need to be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. This person can just observe rather than participate if they don’t want to join in – but of course it’s fun to take part!

We are based in South Devon in England, and our rock climbing and abseiling courses mainly take place on Dartmoor National Park tors or surrounding crags and sea cliffs in Torbay. Examples include Dewerstone Rock, Haytor, Hound Tor, Chudleigh Rocks and Meadfoot in Torquay.

However, we also venture further afield to the Cornish sea cliffs (such as Bosigran, Sennen, Chair Ladder, Lands End and more), plus North Devon, Dorset and Somerset. We also go to several mountain areas for climbing and scrambling including Eryri/Snowdonia in North Wales which guide Mike has spent a lot of time climbing in, and even up to Scotland for longer courses.

Unless we’ve discussed other preferences, you can assume the crag will be South-Devon based, but we’re always happy to chat through the options with you!

It’s not necessary to be very aerobically fit for Pridhamsleigh Cavern and Bakers Pit Cave in Devon, and Goats Church Cavern in the Mendips. There will be plenty of time for rest stops whilst looking at cave features etc., but good mobility is necessary due to the nature of the caves, with some stooping, and crawling on hands and knees necessary at times.

For Swildon’s Hole Cave in the Mendips, good mobility is needed for the Short Trip to the 20ft Pot. For the Long Trip to Sump 1, reasonable aerobic fitness is also required as the way out is uphill, and against the flow of water. This journey is taken at a steady pace, with no rushing required, and stops along the way. Though, generally speaking, it’s good to keep moving slowly as much as possible so that you don’t get too cold.

Happily, caving at Pridhamsleigh Cavern, Bakers Pit Cave and Goat Church Cavern are safe in any weather! They do not have an active streamway, and the passageways we explore are above the water table, making them safe all year round – even if it’s apocalyptic outside (indeed, it’s nice and sheltered in there!)

Swildon’s Hole Cave is an active streamway cave, and the conditions inside the cave change depending on the levels of rainfall outside on preceding days, and at the time. Swildon’s Hole cave is easier to explore when water levels are low, and more exciting, atmospheric and challenging at higher water times – however – there is a point at which too much water in the cave makes it unsafe. We will only operate your caving trip when conditions are suitable, and offer alternatives in the unusual case of it being potentially dangerous. As is the case with all of our activities, safety is one number one priority.

Caving at Pridhamsleigh Cavern in Devon is ideal cave for beginners wishing to go adventure caving. The maze system means there are always options to take, depending on each person’s level of confidence (e.g. if some people want to go a more difficult way, others can go an easier way and meet up a few metres after).

Similarly, Goat Church Cavern in Somerset offers a beginners adventure caving experience.

We prefer people to have been caving with us once before before we visit Bakers Pit Cave in Devon so that we have first hand understanding of your ability. This is slightly more technical cave, and of special conservation importance for the formations and wildlife within it.

The Short Trip at Swildon’s Hole to the 20ft Pot is suitable for beginners. For the more strenuous and committing Full Trip to Sump 1, which involves vertical caving, we ask that you’ve been caving with us at least once before.

Comfortable, dark coloured clothing (ideally with synthetic/wicking fabric) that you don’t mind getting wet and muddy (please note – the mud will stain light coloured clothing!) It is recommended to bring a dark coloured towel and change of clothes for afterwards. All essential caving kit will be provided.

More details are found on the pages relating to the individual caving trips, or do please contact us for more information:

• Pridhamsleigh Cavern
• Baker’s Pit, near Buckfastleigh, South Devon
• Goat Church Cavern, Mendips, Somerset
• Swildon’s Hole, Mendips, Somerset

Pridhamsleigh Cavern is suitable for most ages, and we’ve taken people from 4yrs to well into their 70s who have thoroughly enjoyed themselves. The main factors to consider are mobility and sense of adventure!

Bakers Pit Cave and Goat Church Cavern are also suitable for most ages, as above.

The minimum age for caving trips at Swildon’s Hole Cave is 8yrs. This is because it is a relatively challenging cave (particularly so on the Full Trip to Sump 1).

For caving trips, all children need to be accompanied by a participating parent or legal guardian.

It is very normal to feel a little anxious about going underground, but it is wonderful to see the smiles on the faces of people who choose to ‘feel the fear and do it anyway’. Your guide will tailor the trip to the confidence levels of each individual in your party, and ensure everyone has fun!

Keeping our maximum group sizes small makes a BIG difference to the experience, and will maximise your enjoyment.

Starting with a cave such as Pridhamsleigh Cavern in Devon, is a wonderful way to introduce yourself to caving. You never know – you might get hooked like we have!

Don’t worry – caves are often like a maze – but your guide definitely knows where he’s going!

Mike Roberts has been exploring the many passageways of caves such as Pridhamsleigh Cavern and Bakers Pit Cave in Devon for well over 3 decades (plus many other caves around the UK and internationally), is a qualified Vertical Cave Leader and Local Cave Leader, and is even a member of a Cave Rescue Team in the Mendips where Swildon’s Hole and Goat Church Cavern are found. His knowledge of the tunnels in the caves is incredible, together with interesting facts about them, and he will add a lot of value to your experience.

We will give you the meeting point and time for your caving trip, where you will meet your cave guide and kit up.

We will provide all the essential caving gear that you’ll need to borrow, including caving oversuit, belt, helmet, torch and wellington boots.

You’ll then take a walk to the cave entrance, and make your way inside the cave – exciting!! Your guide will lead you on the adventure to explore the passageways, and learn about the geology and other interesting facts. They will tailor the route to your level of confidence and ability, and ensure you have a rewarding and fun experience!

Once you exit the cave, you’ll walk back to the start, and (depending on the cave) help to wash off the mud from your caving gear, before saying your farewells.

Where possible – and only if you wish – we will take pictures/videos from time to time to share, so that you have a memento of your amazing adventure!

Once you are confident with map and compass navigation techniques, it expands your horizons, confidence and safety. Using a mobile phone for navigation can certainly be a handy tool (and we can also teach you how to use navigation Apps) – but these rely on functioning technology in your hour of need!

A flat battery or malfunctioning device, can lead to a potentially dangerous situation. If you have the knowledge of how to use a map and compass to find your way, in daytime and night time, it can be a lifesaver. Not only that – it’s fun to learn!

If you’re planning on hike off the beaten track, map and compass skills can be invaluable.

We offer courses to suit you if you are a complete beginner, or have some knowledge but wish to refresh and improve your navigation skills. If you are already experienced but want to nail those micro navigation and night navigation skills in preparation for any ambitions you might have – we can help.

Our Navigation Courses can be browsed here. As you will see, we offer courses of various lengths, depending on how much depth of knowledge you’d like to gain.

We are very flexible, and can design a navigation course to suit your wishes and level. As our activities tend to be privately run for you, we will focus on your level of confidence and fitness to ensure an enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Our navigation courses are suitable for individuals, friends, families, couples. The course will be tailored to best suit participants in your party.

Dartmoor is a particularly good place to learn navigation skills with a map and compass, and a training ground perfect for everyone from school children to military personnel

Features to navigate by may be large and prominent or small and hidden, for challenges for all levels. Dartmoor’s varied terrain and weather provide further excellent practice opportunities.

The open moorland often has indistinct or non-existent paths, without sign posts. Distinctive features such as streams, tors, forests, stone walls and an ancient settlements provide useful landmarks and handrails, as clues to relate the map to your surroundings.

The feeling of remoteness gives you a realistic sense of why it’s so important and useful to have map and compass navigation skills, and sufficient route options to suit all levels.

Being able to navigate when the weather turns for the worse is an important skill for your safety. We will happily teach you the map and compass skills you will need if the visibility is poor, or if night draws in.

Happily, Dartmoor can provide all weathers to practice in, from glorious sunny days with expansive views to foggy conditions where you can’t see more than a few metres! It’s wild and rugged landscapes are a superb navigation training ground.

We can certainly help you with the hill and moorland skills that you need to prepare for a hiking challenge or expedition.

You may be curious to know how to plan a route, and how long it might take you for a day trip. Perhaps you’re planning a multi-day trek and want to learn about the various things to pack, prepare and consider. Or you may be thinking of heading into steep terrain, and want to know how to keep safe on consequential ground. Your MCI qualified instructor has a wealth of experience and knowledge and will help you safely your goals!

We can also help you experience the wilds of Dartmoor, off the beaten track on a guided hike.

Yes! If you want to go for a hike on Dartmoor in South Devon or walk the beautiful coast of Devon or Cornwall, we will be pleased to guide you.

We are so fortunate to be born and raised in the stunning Westcountry, exploring its wild and rural landscapes, rich in wildlife which is another passion of ours. We will be very happy to show you the sights – and help you explore off the beaten track if you wish. Some ideas can be found on our website, but we will be delighted to discuss further options with you.

This part is in development – please bear with us!

With a lifelong passion for being in the mountains, we have spent a lot of time hiking, scrambling and climbing in the UK’s mountainous areas.

Guide Mike Roberts spent time living and working as a guide in Eryri (Snowdonia) and knows the routes and conditions in North Wales very well indeed.

This part is in development – please bear with us! More details coming soon!