For decades, the building at 75 High Street was Woolworths — a place woven into the everyday memory of Bideford.
Parents bought pick ’n’ mix here. Grandparents queued at the tills. For many residents, it simply “was always there.” One local, now in his seventies, recalls it stretching back as far as he can remember.
Archival documentation suggests the retailer signed a 65-year lease when it opened in the 1960s — reportedly paying just £500 a year in rent at the time. By modern standards, it is a striking figure, and a reminder of how dramatically High Street economics have shifted over the past half-century.
When Woolworths closed, it left more than an empty shop. It left a gap in the town’s rhythm.
Today, the building has been reimagined as The Pocket Climbing Gym and Cafe — a bright, active, family-friendly space that is once again drawing steady footfall into the town centre.
A Structured Pathway for All Ages
At the heart of The Pocket is its clear, colour-coded grading system, guiding climbers from complete beginners through to advanced athletes.
The Grade Board sets out the progression:
VB – V0 (Green): Entry-level routes for first-time climbers and young children
V1 – V2 (Yellow): Developing balance and technique
V3 – V4 (Blue): Intermediate strength and movement
V5 – V6 (Red): Advanced problem-solving climbs
V7 – V8 (White): Elite-level challenges
Routes are reset regularly, and a Winter Bouldering League keeps climbers motivated during the colder months.
The structure makes it accessible for newcomers while offering genuine progression for those who want to “keep their hand in” year-round.
Separate Adult Training Space
Beyond the main family area is a dedicated adult room, offering a quieter and more focused environment for experienced climbers.
Midweek evenings see regular attendance from older climbers and returning enthusiasts — many choosing indoor training as a practical alternative to outdoor climbing during winter.
With no booking required for general sessions and unlimited session time once inside, access remains straightforward:
Adult entry: £12
Junior (U14): £10
Monthly Direct Debit: £45
Climb cards: £50 or £100
Shoe hire: £4
Chalk hire: £2
Safe, Warm and Family-Friendly
Perhaps most importantly, the space works for families.
Parents can sit comfortably in the integrated café at the front of the building, with clear visibility of the climbing wall. Hot drinks, snacks and locally sourced treats are available, creating an environment where families can stay for extended sessions rather than rush in and out.
After-school clubs run from £11.50, holiday basecamp sessions operate during school breaks, and birthday parties are available from £20 per head.
Opening hours are:
Monday to Friday: 10am – 9pm
Saturday and Sunday: 10am – 6pm
The Pocket Climbing Gym and Cafe is located at 75 High Street, Bideford, EX39 2AA.
Telephone: 01237 439 900
Email: thepocketbideford@outlook.com
Website: https://pocketbideford.com
A Different Kind of High Street Anchor
Woolworths represented one era of High Street life — retail, routine and reliability.
The Pocket represents another — experience, wellbeing and community.
Instead of carrier bags, visitors now leave with chalk on their hands. Instead of browsing aisles, they read routes and test balance. The building that once sold sweets and stationery now builds strength, confidence and connection.
The name on the fascia has changed.
But the building is once again doing what it always did best — bringing people together.
And in a changing High Street landscape, that may be the most important transformation of all.
