Our Story | Ghyll Head

Ghyll Head’s story begins long before it became an outdoor education centre.

The main house dates back to around 1719, when the site was part of a small working mill - first used for smelting, later for bobbin and saw production supplying the thriving textile trade of the North West. The mill relied on the power of Ghyll Head Beck, a stream that still runs through the grounds today, connecting the site to the surrounding landscape in both history and spirit.

By the late 1800s, the industrial activity gave way to grand homes along the lake shore, and Ghyll Head became a peaceful residence overlooking Windermere. The quiet woodlands, sweeping views and access to the water made it an inspiring place long before it became a centre for outdoor learning.

In the 1950s, the O’Flynn family ran Ghyll Head as a children’s hotel and nursery - a place of care, play and learning for young children while their parents worked abroad.

Then in 1966, Manchester City Council purchased the house and boathouse for £25,000, transforming it into an outdoor education centre for the city’s children and young people. Under the leadership of Ken Ogilvie, the centre officially opened in April 1967, welcoming its first school groups from Levenshulme Grammar and Ryder Brow in Gorton. The mission was simple and remains unchanged today: to help young people grow in confidence, independence and connection through outdoor experience.

Vintage photo of a large house with children playing outside on tricycles and a slide.

Two boys sitting in armchairs reading books beside a fireplace.

Old-fashioned playroom with toys, slide, and rocking horse.

Through the 1970s and 1980s, Ghyll Head became a cornerstone of outdoor learning in the region, expanding its activities, facilities and educational approach.

Under Dave Rogers, who led the centre for 20 years, Ghyll Head marked its 25th and 40th anniversaries and saw the founding of the Friends of Ghyll Head - a vital group that raised awareness and support for outdoor education across Manchester.

In the 2000s, as the centre continued to evolve, Graham Jones and later John Cresswell and Julie Cunningham took over leadership. The Friends group grew into the Manchester Outdoor Education Trust, expanding opportunities for young people and supporting outdoor learning across the city.

A major investment by Manchester City Council in 2019 marked the start of a new chapter for Ghyll Head. The centre was carefully upgraded to keep its character while creating welcoming, modern spaces for future generations.

Working in partnership with GLL, the site was given new life - with refreshed accommodation, improved accessibility and updated learning areas. The main house was restored, the bungalows and boathouse improved, and new social and dining spaces added to support group visits of all sizes.

Wooden camping pods and a smiling girl wearing a helmet on a ropes course.

The investment also introduced The Hive Pod Village - a flexible, fully accessible area designed for families, schools and community groups. It’s become a favourite for inclusive stays, offering space for connection, relaxation and adventure in the heart of the Lakes.

In 2022, new activity areas, including a low ropes course, were added to help young people grow in confidence, teamwork and independence through hands-on challenges and play.

The investment secured Ghyll Head’s future as an inclusive, modern centre for outdoor learning and adventure.

Today, Ghyll Head is a thriving, inclusive centre that continues to deliver high-quality outdoor education for schools, SEND groups, youth organisations, and families.

We work closely with partners such as Manchester City Council, Barnardo’s and We Love MCR Charity, supporting families, developing young leaders and opening up opportunities for everyone to experience the benefits of outdoor learning.

Our story is still being written - by every pupil, teacher, youth leader and family who steps through our doors and discovers what they’re capable of.

Two children in waterproof gear laughing and splashing in a lake.

How it all began

A home with history

From children’s home to outdoor education

Decades of learning and change

Investment and new beginnings

Today and beyond