CHARM has been thinking about organising a stay over at the Ghyll Head Outdoor Education and Activity Centre, Manchester City Council’s Outdoor Education Centre in the heart of the Lake District National Park.
CHARM members, Sam and Jane visited the centre in October to check out if it would be suitable. Below you can read Sam’s account of their visit.
At this months CHARM Society meeting as a result of the report we agreed that we will organise a stay over at the centre as a way of growing our sense of community and shared experiences.
Ghyll Head Outdoor Education centre…… a little piece of Manchester in the tree covered slopes of Lake Windemere
by Sam
This outdoor education centre was purchased by Manchester Council in the 60’s to provide an inexpensive opportunity for school children, workers and groups of people to experience the great outdoors. We
Discussing walking and opportunities for people in the City to fully experience the countryside, we got to talking about Ghyll Head.
Everyone we got to talking about the place had heard of it. My mum had been with her work and my sister with her school. I suppose living in Manchester means your never more than a few people away from someone who’s been.
Having never experienced the place personally, me and Jane decided to take a look for ourselves.
I travelled with Jane in the car, Jane drove and I fell asleep. The journey took less than two hours and we were kindly welcomed by John, Paula and workers at the project who kindly fed and watered us whilst answering our questions.
The walk around the grounds revealed climbing walls, zip wires and an empty teepee. Conversation led to the activities available; gorge walking, kayaking, orienteering, rock climbing or simple walks amongst other outdoor pursuits.
The campfires ready to be lit and cosy Pods evoked hazy memories of Scout trips and summer evenings with friends. The essence of this outdoor centre is friendship, team members building and inclusivity. You couldn’t get a more perfect setting for it. The centre fosters important moments and memories essential for living. Their aim is to literally give you the time of your life.
You can visit anytime of the year. The accomodation is divided into three options according to your preference.
The large house (formerly a children’s home now the hub of Ghyl Head), with room for up to 60 people,
a separate bungalow housing up to 29 or the little outdoor pods nestled in the wooded area that surrounds the house.
Groups of 12 or more are assigned a guide for activities that cater for all individuals of all types and abilities.
There is an option to self cater or pay for prepared meals, depending on budget.
Prices are reasonable too.
