For many, an outdoor residential trip is one of the highlights of their school days. For some, it is inspirational, even life-changing.

Over the years, tens of thousands of children and young people from local schools and other groups across the country have had a taste of adventure in the picturesque surroundings of our Bewerley Park Outdoor Learning Centre in Pateley Bridge, coming away with new-found confidence, friendships and memories that often last throughout their lifetime.

And now an exciting new era for outdoor adventure and connecting with nature awaits following the launch of a new 84-bed accommodation block.

The £3.2 million project boasts 14 ensuite bedrooms, each hosting a maximum of six young people, accommodation for visiting staff, a drying room and breakout spaces to help groups reflect and review learnings.

Our executive member for education, learning and skills, Councillor Annabel Wilkinson, said: “This is an exciting moment for children and young people who can continue to enjoy an immersive outdoor experience, learn valuable new skills and spend time in modern facilities.

For many children, it is the first time they’ve spent away from home, but by the end of their school residential adventure trip their confidence will have grown massively.

“This new space represents a significant step forward in North Yorkshire Council’s commitment to providing high-quality, sustainable learning environments for young people.”

She added: “I would like to thank communities surrounding the site for their patience and cooperation whilst works have been carried out and express our gratitude to those involved in bringing the original vision for this new block to life.”

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Visitors can enjoy 16 exciting outdoor and adventurous activities at the popular facility. These include canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, caving, ghyll scrambling, mountain biking, rock climbing, sailing, orienteering, bushcraft and walking.

Councillor Andrew Murday, who represents the Pateley Bridge and Nidderdale division, said: “The Bewerley Park Outdoor Learning Centre has been a fantastic facility for six decades.

“Children have an outstanding experience during their stay here, be it learning about nature or taking part in exciting adventure activities or simply forging friendships, and are supported by a highly qualified, experienced and passionate team.

“I am delighted that all visitors will enjoy a good night’s sleep in modern facilities after fun-packed days at Bewerley Park.”

The redevelopment has been designed by architects and engineers at Align Property Partners, the council’s property consultancy, who have worked closely with the authority’s outdoor learning and property services.

As well as Bewerley Park, we have a centre at East Barnby near Whitby with the coast on the doorstep and the North York Moors National Park as a backdrop.

Find out more and book your visit to Bewerley Park Outdoor Learning Centre.