Where It All Started
Our Activities Grew
More Trees!
Going on an adventure
Burnley FC In The Community
Whitehough Outdoor Centre first opened its doors in 1938 and was originally built as a Camp School. During the war years, it was used as an open-air school for children who were prone to the widespread rise of tuberculosis during that time. After Word War Two, Whitehough returned to its original use.
Campcraft and physical activity were offered to groups, along with field studies, local studies, games, dance and crafts. Later, more adventurous courses were added, with treks along the Pennine Way and expeditions to the Scottish Isles, the Dolomites, the Alps and Iceland taking place throughout the 1960s, 70s and 80s.
From the 1970s, the site was developed to offer opportunities for nature study; ponds were dug and trees and shrubs were planted for field studies.
Adventurous outdoor activities such as caving, climbing, high ropes and mountain biking were gradually added to programmes for schools, forming the basis of visits through the 1980s.
Unfortunately, the Centre was closed in 2015 for two years, before Burnley FC in the Community assumed operations in 2017, developing and reopening the site to the community and saving Whitehough Outdoor Centre in the process.
Frequently Asked Questions
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What should my child/children wear/bring?
The most important thing is that participants wear clothes that are fine to get wet and dirty, but will also be warm, dry and comfortable.
Before the visit you will be issued with a suggested kit list but don’t worry if your child doesn’t have the exact clothing listed. We have a small selection of boots, wellies and waterproofs which can be borrowed if necessary!
We recommend that any valuable items/electronics/phones are left at home for safekeeping.
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What food is served?
It is really important that everyone eats at every mealtime, as the activities that the groups will take part in are physically demanding.
Breakfast is usually continental style and will include cereal, fruit and toast/croissants, but hot options can be requested by the school/group at the time of booking (if the Pendle Hill Walk is part of the booked programme children will be given a hot option on that day).
As most of the activities take place on-site, lunch is served in the dining hall and will vary from day to day. Across a typical week lunch includes sandwiches, paninis, jacket potatoes with a choice of fillings or soup and a roll. There will be a snack, cake and/or fruit to follow.
Participants will be asked to play a part in choosing the menu for the week in advance of their stay.
We can cater for all dietary needs/allergies and if you would like to discuss any specific needs your child has, please feel free to contact us on 01282 615688.
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What are the sleeping arrangements?
Most visiting groups sleep in dormitories. The dorms are split into male and female buildings and also have staff accommodation incorporated.
In each room there will be a bunk bed and a single bed. There will also be a sink, a large wardrobe and drawers. A duvet, pillow and bed linen are all provided.
Toilets and showers are situated at the end of the dormitory block. All the showers and toilets are in separate cubicles.
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Is there phone reception or internet access?
Whitehough is in a rural area, and phone signal can be intermittent, but there is WiFi available onsite.
Testimonials
Take a look at what people have to say about Whitehough Outdoor Centre. If you have something kind to say about your time with us at Whitehough then please send your testimonials over to whitehough@burnleyfc.com.
Instructors Were Brilliant
During their stay, the group learned perseverance skills; they didn’t give up when the activities became tough. They also learned to encourage each other and work well as a team.
We will remember our visit because the instructors were brilliant, and they created a great relationship with the children. Kate, who did our catering, and Andy were also great – thank you very much! All the activities were great and we can’t wait to come back.
Improved Significantly
Lots of individuals improved significantly in terms of confidence and self-belief. The instructors were great, they were very knowledgeable and built up relationships with the children who all had a great time.
Overall, we had a fantastic time! The site is well run by the staff at Whitehough, who supported our idea of letting the children have the same instructor for the whole visit.
Teamwork Skills
During their stay, the group achieved independence and teamwork skills. We will remember our visit because of the very knowledgeable and fantastic instructors. Kate and Andy were also superb – thank you! We were made to feel very welcome and look forward to returning.
The Grounds
Whichever activities you choose, you’ll be in a beautiful setting surrounded by nature. Our site sprawls over 22 acres of natural woodland, fields and water features that give a real sense of escape and adventure. Use the map of our site for a more detailed look at the features on offer.
View our updated Whitehough Terms & Conditions (correct as of August 23rd 2021).