Who are we?
Your host is Ollie Jay, a qualified teacher of Outdoor Education (PGCE from Bangor, North Wales) with a BSc in Exercise and Health; a National Governing body qualified instructor for sea and inland kayaking (level 4 coach), open canoeing (level 3 coach), dinghy sailing, climbing & abseiling (SPA holder), mountain biking and skiing. With 20 years experience of coaching and instructing a wide range of activities and clientele, Ollie is also a member of the Institute of Outdoor Learning (IOL).
Here is my Google map showing meeting points
Please click here to find common meeting places on Google maps. Once on the page click on the place you want on the left and then you can get directions or print the map. Zoom in and out and change to satalite view also.
What do we provide?
A high quality coaching, guiding and expedition service (in a wide range of activities) to individuals, small groups of adults and families (U18s if accompanied by a parent or legally appointed guardian). Having worked full time in North Northumberland since the summer of 1999 I have amassed a huge amount of experience in this area and developed many relationships with the Land owners and Businesses and people who work in the area and pride myself in my knowledge of the Outdoor Environment and its importance - something I like to pass on to my clients.
Equipment wise:
Open Canoeing or Kayaking you will get:
A seat in a kayak or canoe, a paddle, a personal floatation device (B/A), a basic cagoule and a spray deck if kayaking. We have new wetsuit longjohns that can be used for wet training if required.
Climbing:
We provide harnesses, helmets and all the necessary ropes and safety gear for the climbs.
What should I wear?
Outdoor Activities, especially waterbased ones can be wet - no surprise there - so what sort of clothing should I wear?
For water based activity we recommend you wear polyester type thermal base layers with a fleece over your top. We will provide a basic cagoule which will keep the wind off and protect you from any splashed water. We would advice wearing a cheap pair of waterproof trousers over your legs for the same reason. Through the colder months dry suits are the best option but some people wear long john type wetsuits, personally I find these can be uncomfortable unless they are wet - so good for practicing rescues and surfing. An alternative to a neoprene layer (wetsuit) is a fibre pile and pertex layer. These come in salopettes and jackets and are made by various manufacterers - try sailing gear also. Footwear - an old pair of trainers, wet suit booties with a solid base or solid sandals. Cut down wellies are great if you have ankle straps on waterproof trousers.
Land based activities similar to above but wear solid boots/shoes for approaching the crag and wear a waterproof jacket instead of the cagoule we offer on the wet stuff.
Once you have decided you like a particular sport then we can give you advice on the various types of clothing on offer.
Who is it for?
The North Northumberland and Scottish Borders area is the ideal venue for the first time explorer, as well as the more experienced outdoor enthusiast. Families, couples, individuals and small groups are welcome.
It is our policy not to take out large groups as it is felt we should protect the environment and earn a welcome from people who live and work in the area. It is important that our grandchildren can enjoy it as we do.
What can I do?
Come out and experience the outdoor environment with a qualified and experienced guide.
Develop your technical skills and improve your approach to learning, allowing you to go further in your chosen activity.
Explore some of the more remote areas of the UK as well as some other areas of the world with our expedition programme.
A wide range of activities can be undertaken and the level will be determined by your experience and personal needs.
Get out and about in safety
Have you always wanted to experience the outdoor environment but felt it was too intimidating?
The idea of using a local guide (we are based in North East England but operate throughout the world) is that you can ensure that the chosen destination or trip will suit your personal needs and that your safety will be a major consideration.
Incidentially we have 5 million pounds worth of public liability insurance and this is a must if you are using anyone to provide activity coaching/ guiding for you!
Where are we?
We are based in Berwick-upon-Tweed, north Northumberland but we also run expedition courses.
Do we do Activity Vouchers?
Yes we do. We sell Vouchers that are valid for 12 months that can be purchased for Xmas or Birthday pressies etc. They come with a photo of the activity on a card that is blank for your special message. Prices are on the list as for a normal activity cost and the voucher is suitable for one or two people. Once the recipient has the voucher they need to contact us directly to arrange a date that suits both parties. Summer gets very busy so tell them to book early to avoid disappointment if there is a certain day in mind.
