Summer camps
During the summer period we are open to alumni, families and those with a connection to the University, including staff and students. Summer camp residents have access to activities such as sailing, paddle-sports, gorge walking and rock climbing.
What to expect from your stay
We run two different types of weeks for residents:
- Family weeks revolve around led activities with our expert staff. There are options from beginner to advanced. You are also welcome to have your own adventures or even have the day off! It is a holiday you know!
- Friends’ weeks focus on your own adventures. Our staff provide safety cover on a section of the lake and can provide advice for trips near to the centre.
There is an expectation that camp residents are competent for self-led sessions on all weeks.
Camps are based on self-catering and accommodation is mainly in dorm style bedrooms for each family. The centre is well resourced with a commercial kitchen, including a fast dishwasher and lots of crockery and pans. There are social spaces that include a lounge, games room and classroom space as well as seating outside overlooking the lake.
Bookings
Our week-long camps are open to current and former University staff, students and alumni.
The normal format is that you arrive Sunday evening and activity sessions are available Monday to Friday, departures are on Saturday morning (6 nights)
Information for the coming year is usually available around mid-January with bookings open at the end of January or early February.
Bookings are usually in very high demand and are offered on a first-come-first-serve basis. Each camp has a limited number of spaces. You are recommended to book as soon as bookings open.
To receive the information as soon as its available you will need to add your name to the mailing list. You can contact us for the link by sending us an email.
How to book your place
Submit an online booking form to secure your place. Forms can be requested by emailing us. Each person attending (aged over five years) must also pay a membership/registration fee of £10.00.
Activities
Our staff are very knowledgeable and experienced, so if you’ve never tried something before or want to develop your skills, we will be happy to help offer advice or lead a specific session.
All safety equipment required for the activity is included such as wetsuits, waterproofs, rucksacks, harnesses, helmets, flotation devices, and paddles.
During Family Camps, some evening activities may be held on various nights’ usually with a family focus.
Daily activities available
- Canoeing
- Kayaking
- Mountain biking
- Sailing
- Stand-up paddle boarding (SUP)
- Walking
- Windsurfing
- Abseiling
- Climbing
- Full mountain days
- Giant SUP
- Gorge walking
- Led mountain biking
- Open water swimming
- River paddling
Questions about our summer camps?
For more information about summer camps or to join the mailing list, contact the Raymond Priestley Centre.