Urban climbing, also known as buildering, combines the thrill of traditional rock climbing with the unique challenges of urban landscapes. A recent video release captures this exhilarating sport through the eyes of accomplished competition climber Louis Parkinson as he explores the urban climbing scene in central London. Joined by pioneers of the sport, Alex and Bobby, Parkinson navigates some of the city's most iconic urban climbs, showcasing the sport's growing popularity.

The Historical Roots of Buildering

Buildering traces its origins to the late 19th century, with notable contributions from several climbing enthusiasts. In 1895, alpinist Geoffrey Winthrop Young began scaling the roofs of Cambridge University, later publishing a guidebook detailing routes at Trinity College. This pioneering effort marked the inception of buildering as a recognized sport.

A decade later, Harry H. Gardiner gained fame for climbing over 700 buildings across Europe and North America, often donning everyday street clothes and forgoing specialized equipment. In the early 20th century, George Polley, known as the "Human Fly," embarked on his climbing career, ascending over 2,000 buildings, including a famous climb that earned him a suit from a clothing store owner.

Buildering's Popularity and Legal Challenges

The early 20th century saw buildering flourish in New York City, reaching its zenith between 1915 and 1920. However, by 1920, concerns over safety and legality led to the prohibition of building climbing in the city.

Despite these challenges, the sport's appeal continued. In 1930, John Hurst updated Winthrop Young's guide, offering detailed route descriptions and expanding the sport's literature. The 1930s also saw the publication of a light-hearted account of undergraduate buildering at Cambridge, penned by Noël Howard Symington under the pseudonym Whipplesnaith.

Post-war years in Cambridge maintained the popularity of night climbing, with Richard Williams updating the Trinity buildering guide in 1960. The 1970s witnessed further literary contributions to the sport, with publications by F A Reeve and the pseudonymous Hederatus highlighting the ongoing allure of urban climbing.

Modern Buildering Icons

The 1970s and 1980s brought new icons to the forefront of buildering. George Willig's 1977 climb of the World Trade Center's South Tower and Gripped co-founder David Smart's 1980 aid climb of the CN Tower exterior with Gerry Banning marked significant milestones. Dan Goodwin's ascents of the world's tallest buildings in the 1980s and Alain Robert's numerous climbs since the 1990s have inspired a new generation of urban climbers.

Conclusion: Buildering's Growing Appeal

Today, as showcased by Louis Parkinson and his companions in London, buildering continues to captivate enthusiasts worldwide. Its rich history and the daring feats of its practitioners highlight the sport's unique blend of adventure, creativity, and urban exploration.