Thornbridge Outdoors
Nestled in the heart of the Peak District, Thornbridge Outdoors stands as a premier outdoor education centre. The facility offers remarkable opportunities for both individuals and groups to explore and learn in nature’s classroom.
The Thornbridge Outdoors centre experienced team brings passion and expertise to every adventure programme they deliver. With its breathtaking surroundings and top-tier facilities, Thornbridge Outdoors has earned its reputation as a leading destination for outdoor learning and personal growth in the region.
About Thornbridge Outdoors
Thornbridge Outdoors sits in a brilliant spot in the Peak District National Park, making it easy to reach places like Bakewell, Sheffield and Great Longstone. The centre offers loads of outdoor activities right from its doorstep, with amazing access to hiking trails and cycling routes across Derbyshire.
Groups can pick from different ways to stay. They can sort their own meals and activities, or ask the staff to plan everything. The expert team runs programmes for schools, friends and activity clubs that want to learn new skills.
The activities list is huge:
- Rock climbing at Froggatt and Stanage
- Walking the Gritstone Edges
- Abseiling
- Canoeing
- Caving
- Cycling
Thornbridge Outdoors works with people of all ages and skill levels. School groups often come to build team spirit, while hobby groups visit to boost their outdoor skills. Many people love sitting round the campfire after a busy day exploring the national park.
The location near Ashford in the Water means visitors can enjoy both quiet countryside and nearby towns. Every activity is matched to what each group wants to achieve, whether that’s learning new skills or just having fun outdoors.
Activities at Thornbridge Outdoors
The outdoor activities that Thornbridge Outdoors features give many exciting adventures led by skilled instructors. Guests can tackle climbing walls and bouldering challenges, or explore natural caves and old mines in the local area. The grounds provide perfect spots for den building and orienteering tasks.
Water enthusiasts can try canoeing whilst adrenaline seekers might prefer the high ropes or abseiling courses. A low ropes course offers team-building fun closer to the ground.
Thornbridge Outdoors provides cycle hire for exploring the stunning Peak District trails. Walking routes suit all abilities, from gentle strolls to challenging hikes.
Key Activities:
- Rock climbing and bouldering
- Caving and mine exploration
- High and low ropes courses
- Orienteering challenges
- Environmental activities
- Canoeing adventures
- Walking routes
- Cycling trips
Tailored skills courses are available for individuals and small groups, with custom training programmes to match specific needs. These can take place at the centre or other chosen locations.
Bike Trails and Cycle Hire
The 850-metre bike and trike trail offers a gentle loop around the grounds of Thornbridge Outdoors with modest gradients. Young riders can build confidence and develop cycling skills in a safe environment.
An exciting pump track sits next to the main trail, featuring a dedicated skills area where cyclists can practise bike control techniques. More experienced riders can test themselves on the technical rock garden located in the woodland area with qualified coaching available.
Free bike hire is included with any instructor-led cycling session. The regularly maintained fleet includes:
- Small bikes for primary school ages
- Medium bikes for secondary school ages
- Adult-sized bikes
- Trikes for beginners
Guests staying at Thornbridge Outdoors without a booked instructor can rent bikes from Hassop Bike Hire, conveniently situated along the Monsal Trail nearby.
The varied trail options cater to different skill levels:
- Beginner: Main loop trail
- Intermediate: Pump track and skills area
- Advanced: Technical rock garden (with coach)
Time at Thornbridge Outside Activities
Single-Day Trips
The convenient placement near major cities makes Thornbridge Outdoors perfect for day trips. Groups can reach the centre in 20 minutes from Buxton, 30 minutes from Chesterfield, and 40 minutes from Sheffield. Derby sits just an hour away, whilst Manchester and Nottingham are only 70 minutes distant.
The space welcomes groups of all sizes, from tiny teams of 3 to large parties over 100 strong. Visitors can pick from guided activities with trained staff or self-led sessions using the grounds. Meeting rooms are ready for workshops or gatherings too.
Overnight Programmes
The team crafts custom programmes for each group’s goals during their stay. These tailored experiences often focus on:
- Building confidence
- Learning new skills
- Growing independence
- Taking on challenges
- Meeting curriculum needs
- Working as a team
Most groups choose 3-day or 5-day stays, though shorter and longer visits work well too. The central spot in the Peak District lets teams start activities by 11am on day one and keep going until lunch on the final day.
The skilled staff make sure every moment counts. They plan each day to match what groups want to achieve. This might mean:
Morning Activities:
- Rock climbing
- Caving
- Hiking
Afternoon Sessions:
- Team challenges
- Nature studies
- Adventure sports
The centre offers full support throughout each stay. Guests can use:
- Modern shower blocks
- Dining facilities
- Activity equipment
- Indoor spaces
Groups often mix outdoor adventures with quiet time indoors. This balance helps everyone get the most from their visit.
Places to Stay at Thornbridge Outdoors
The Lodge (Sleeps 38)
The Lodge offers self-contained housing for up to 38 guests. This welcoming space features several sleeping areas with comfy beds.
The Lodge
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A well-equipped kitchen gives groups everything needed for meal preparation. The dining space lets everyone gather together to eat and chat.
The Lodge includes these handy features:
- Free WiFi throughout
- Modern washrooms
- Large drying room for wet clothes and gear
- Spacious common areas
- Fully fitted kitchen
- Dining tables and chairs
The Base Camp kitchen area comes with:
- Cookers and ovens
- Refrigerators
- Storage space
- Cooking equipment
- Tableware and utensils
Groups can spread out in the communal spaces to relax after busy days outdoors. The drying room helps keep gear and clothes clean and ready for the next adventure.
The Farm Centre
The Main Living Quarters (Sleeps 38)
The spacious accommodation spans a single floor and features nine well-appointed bedrooms. Each room combines bunk-beds and single beds, with two rooms specially designed to sleep three people each and offering wider doorways for wheelchair access.
The Farm House
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The bedding includes fresh duvets and linens for guests to arrange their beds. Separate toilet and shower facilities are available for men and women, plus an accessible bathroom with shower for those with mobility needs.
Common Areas:
- Comfortable sitting room
- LED television
- Blu-ray player
- Wi-Fi connection throughout
- Large dining space
- Fully-equipped kitchen
The kitchen comes fitted with professional-grade equipment perfect for preparing meals for large groups. For outdoor dining, guests can enjoy the barbecue area with garden seating.
Accessibility Features:
- Single-level layout
- Wide doorways in select rooms
- Dedicated accessible bathroom
- Smooth flooring throughout
- Easy access to all facilities
Room Configuration:
| Type | Number | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Rooms | 7 | Bunk/single bed mix |
| Accessible Rooms | 2 | 3 beds each, wide doors |
The central position makes it easy to reach all site activities. Staff quarters can accommodate up to 6 group leaders alongside 32 guests, making it ideal for educational visits and group stays.
The Farm Estate at Thornbridge Outdoors
Woodlands (Sleeps 10, Adapted Access)
This modern adapted accommodation sits nestled among mature trees with stunning field views. The space welcomes up to 10 guests in thoughtfully designed rooms. The accessible bedroom fits 4 people with a ceiling hoist system, featuring a bunk bed, single bed, and adaptable profiling bed. A second room houses 5 guests with two bunk beds and one single bed.
The central living area serves multiple functions – it transforms from a cosy lounge into a dining space or meeting room for 12 people. A 50-inch wall TV, Blu-ray player and Bluetooth speaker provide entertainment. The space includes a fold-down king bed, sofa bed, dining table for 10, and soft seating for 5. A well-equipped kitchen sits next door.
Beautiful bi-fold doors open onto a private deck and patio with outdoor furniture. A fenced woodland garden features a barbecue area.
Accessibility Features:
- Step-free access throughout
- Wide doorways for wheelchairs
- Maxi Sky remote hoist (200kg limit)
- Adapted en-suite with adjustable sink
- Invacare Accent profiling bed (145kg limit)
- Dedicated disabled parking space
The retreat works best for mixed groups including both adapted access needs and able-bodied guests. Fresh bed linens and duvets come ready for each stay.
2 The Woodlands (Sleeps 4)
This Grade II listed cottage sits within the original archway building, blending modern comforts with preserved character features. Tall ceilings, leaded windows and a classic fireplace add charm to the updated space.
The ground floor offers a snug sitting room with Smart LED TV and Blu-ray player. A separate kitchen-diner comes fully equipped for family meals. Outside, guests can enjoy a private patio garden with picnic bench and barbecue.
Upstairs, the main bedroom features a super king zip-link bed that splits into singles when needed (advance notice required). A second room contains a bunk bed, perfect for children or additional guests. A modern shower room serves both bedrooms.
The cottage sleeps 4 guests comfortably. Fresh duvets and bed linens are provided for self-making. Guests should bring personal towels for their stay.
Key Features:
- Historic archway setting
- Flexible sleeping arrangements
- Private outdoor space
- Modern entertainment systems
- Fully-equipped kitchen
A perfect blend of period charm and practical comfort makes this an ideal base for small families or groups exploring the surrounding woodlands.
Camping at Thornbridge Outdoors
The spacious camping grounds at Thornbridge Outdoors offer a peaceful spot for groups to experience outdoor living. The flat, protected field welcomes up to 40 campers, with extra space available for bigger groups upon request. Youth organisations, school groups, and families often choose this site for their adventures.
The unique Teepee Village adds an exciting twist to traditional camping from spring through autumn. Nine cosy teepees dot the landscape, each fitting five children or three adults comfortably. Guests need to pack their sleeping bags, pillows, and mats. Extra tents can join the village for groups under 40 people.
Base Camp sits next to both camping areas and serves as the central hub. The modern kitchen comes with all needed tools and equipment for group meals. Inside, the dining room fits 60 people, with extra seating outside for sunny days.
Facilities include:
- Clean male and female toilets
- Hot showers
- Outdoor washing sinks
- WiFi in Base Camp building
The site creates a perfect balance between basic camping and modern comforts. Groups can enjoy the fresh air while having access to essential amenities. The mix of traditional camping spaces and teepees lets visitors choose their preferred outdoor sleeping setup.
The Grounds at Thornbridge Outdoors
The sprawling 30-acre grounds at Thornbridge Outdoors sit in a picturesque area of the Peak District near Bakewell. Guests can freely explore the spacious property and take part in various outdoor activities and games within its safe boundaries.
A direct link to the Monsal Trail offers visitors excellent walking and cycling opportunities through scenic Peak District landscapes. The traffic-free trail connects seamlessly with the grounds, making it perfect for outdoor adventures.
Important notes for visitors:
- No dogs permitted on-site (assistance dogs exempt)
- Some activities require supervision from qualified instructors
- Outdoor seating available throughout the grounds
- Multiple meeting spaces for group activities
Accessibility
Thornbridge provides several accessible buildings and activities for guests with mobility needs. The specially-designed Woodlands building sits at ground level and includes hoists and an accessible shower room. The Lodge offers another ground-floor option with wheelchair-friendly spaces and a wet room.
Adaptive equipment helps make outdoor activities possible for all guests. The facility maintains a fleet of bikes and trikes in different sizes, plus a tandem bike for shared rides. Modified high ropes courses feature hoists and special harnesses to help participants take part safely.
Special schools often visit the centre for customised programmes. Skilled instructors adapt activities to match each person’s abilities and comfort level.
Accessible Features:
- Ground-floor accommodation
- Hoists and adaptive equipment
- Wheelchair-friendly facilities
- Modified high ropes course
- Range of adapted bikes and trikes
- Specialised harnesses
- Accessible shower rooms and wet rooms
- Personalised activity programmes
The experienced staff focus on creating meaningful outdoor experiences that work for every visitor’s needs and abilities.
Contact Thornbridge Outdoors
For more information about Thornbridge Outdoors, please get in touch using the Contact Form below!
