The sprawling mass of boulders under the Cuttings cliffs provides an interesting and varied (if a little esoteric) bouldering venue. The development of the Cuttings Boulderfield coincided with the first commercially available bouldering mats and it is hard to imagine bouldering here without one.
The high concentration of problems and generally smooth rock suit both circuits and sessioning. A bouldering mat is essential since the landings, whilst not overtly dangerous, tend to be rocky. The boulders are generally small in stature and sit-starts are the norm.
The boulderfield can be conveniently divided into two main sectors - north and south. The southern sector sits below the ruined Rufus Castle and the New Cuttings. The northern sector extends beyond The Cuttings cliff. A continuous path links sectors and is referred to in this guide as the Main Boulderfield Path. Another path hugs the coastline around the perimeter of the boulderfield and we have referred to this as the coastal path.
For those unfamiliar with the Boulderfield navigation can be difficult. It is best to stick to paths whenever possible. When going 'off-piste' the extensive areas of scree should be preferred over vegetated areas - the brambles and thorns are plentiful and unforgiving.
The areas in the southern sector of the Boulderfield are fewer, smaller and usually quieter than the northern sector. Consequently the approach paths are less trodden and some searching may be required for the more hidden problems. The highlights are The Highball Wall and the Rainy Day Roof, but there is plenty of variety and many of the other boulders are worth seeking out.
The northern sector of The Cuttings Boulderfield is more established, more extensive and more frequented than the southern. This is where well-known problems such as Nu Breed, Lightning Strike and Liquid Sunshine are found. The northern sector is subdivided into seven reasonably distinct areas as shown on the map opposite.