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Inspiring confidence, teamwork and self-belief through unforgettable outdoor experiences in the lake district.

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Group of children and adults paddling a canoe on a calm lake with hills in the background.

Ghyll Head Outdoor Education and Activity Centre is Manchester City Council’s outdoor learning centre, based in the heart of the Lake District National Park. Our setting provides the ideal environment for children, young people and groups to develop through challenge, discovery and adventure.

Every course is carefully tailored to your group’s needs and interests, ensuring a safe, inclusive and memorable experience for everyone.

Our team, setting and approach make Ghyll Head a truly special place to learn and grow.

Puzzle outline with white text: Tailored to every group

Book outline with white text: Expert instructors

Tree outline with white text: Authentic Lake District setting

Hands over group of people outline with white text: Welcoming and inclusive

Find the right stay for your group. At Ghyll Head, every visit offers something unique - experiences that build confidence, connection and a love for the outdoors.

Learning through adventure

Practical outdoor learning that builds confidence, teamwork and independence.

Explore school stays

Child putting on helmet before outdoor activity at Ghyll Head.

Challenge. Teamwork. Fun.

Outdoor activities that encourage problem-solving, cooperation and growth.

See all activities

Children sailing on lake windermere at Ghyll Head.

Rest. Reflect. Recharge.

Welcoming accommodation designed for comfort, connection and space to unwind.

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Glamping pods at dusk at Ghyll Head centre.

Stronger together

Team-building and group stays that bring people closer through shared experiences.

Plan your team day

Adults laughing during outdoor event at Ghyll Head.

Every visit to Ghyll Head helps people grow, connect and experience the outdoors in new ways.

70 + years

delivering outdoor education in the Lake District

5k+ learners

growing through adventure every year

100 acres

of woodland, water and adventure space to explore

97%

of visitors say they’d love to return

What teachers, group leaders and visitors say about their time at Ghyll Head.

"What a fantastic experience and brilliant resource for our children. Our group had the opportunity to take part in so many different activities that they wouldn't usually do. It was a pleasure and a privilege to see them develop in confidence and find their 'inner strength' over the two days that they were away. Thank you to ALL of you for your enthusiasm and commitment to outdoor education."

- Meryl Blackburn, Assistant Head, Chorlton Park Primary School

"As my first experience of a residential, the bar has been set high for what I expect from all others I go on, in my teaching career. I thought you were so inclusive in an environment that could easily not be. You definitely built our children’s resilience in such a short amount of time. Thank you again, enjoy the next few weeks before summer camps start."

- Rachel Welch, Teacher, St John Fisher and St Thomas More Primary School

Ghyll Head Outdoor Education and Activity Centre

Where learning meets adventure

What makes us different

Choose your experience