This morning was spent looking at different ways of setting up the big abseil at Nesscliffe. It has become one of the better known abseils for many miles due to it’s size (approximately 45m) and impressive views across to the Breidden Hills, but one which I haven’t spent much time working on in the past. However, with plans to make more frequent use of this fantastic Shropshire  venue, I though it was time I gave it the attention it deserves.

The nature of the sandstone rock makes it particularly important for any gear placements to be solid, spreading the forces over a large mass of rock, rather than expecting a convenient crack to hold under strain. However, with a little experimentation, I managed to find a setup that ticked all the right boxes before putting it to the test with a few descents.

A couple of walkers seemed very confused as to why anyone would step over a 45m vertical cliff, but I enjoyed it anyway!