Two New Skills Workshops Are Here

If you’ve ever stood on a hill looking out across the Peak District and thought “I wish I knew how to do this properly on my own” then this is for you.

Over the last couple of years of leading hikes, I’ve noticed the same thing come up again and again in conversations on the trail. People want to explore more independently. They want to plan their own hikes, understand the map in their pocket, and feel confident heading out with friends without worrying they’re missing something important.

But getting started can feel a bit overwhelming.

What kit do you actually need?
How do you know if the weather is safe?
What happens if you lose the path?

So I’ve created two new small-group skills workshops in the Peak District to help answer those questions and give you the confidence to start exploring more independently.

Beginner Hiking Skills Day

The Beginner Hiking & Outdoor Skills Workshop focuses on the foundations of hiking safely and comfortably. We’ll cover things like choosing the right kit and footwear, understanding mountain weather, nutrition and hydration, emergency essentials, basic navigation and general hill skills.

It’s designed for anyone who wants to start planning and enjoying their own hikes without feeling like they’re just winging it.

Beginner Navigation Day

If you’ve ever relied entirely on the blue dot on your phone, the Beginner Navigation Skills Workshop is all about learning how to navigate with a map and compass.

From understanding contours and grid references to following a route and relocating yourself if you get a little turned around, we’ll break navigation down step by step while practising it out on the hill.

Navigation can seem intimidating at first, but once it clicks it’s one of the most empowering outdoor skills you can learn.

Small groups, plenty of time to learn

Both workshops run in small groups of just four people, which means plenty of time to ask questions, practise the skills and build confidence throughout the day.

They take place in the Peak District and run from roughly 9:30am–4pm, with tickets starting from £50 per person.

If you’ve been wanting to feel more confident heading into the outdoors, whether that’s planning your own hikes or learning how to navigate without relying on your phone - these workshops are a great place to start.

You can explore all the upcoming outdoor skills workshops here.