OUTDOOR ADVENTURE IN NORTH DEVON

Yes, Skern Adventure is open to the public. A range of activities can be booked directly online via our activities page, while others can be arranged by contacting the team. Sessions are instructor-led and available for a variety of ages and abilities.

Skern Adventure was established in 1976 and has been delivering outdoor experiences for 50 years. Since moving to our current Appledore site in 1982, we have grown to include a second centre at Abbotsham, expanding the range of activities and experiences we offer.

In some circumstances we may be able to arrange the following:

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• Bookings made the day before
• Bookings online for the Appledore Adventure Club need to be made before 12 noon the day before.
• Last minute pool hire
• Last minute RIB charter

With the exception of the above we require at least 24 hours notice for most activities.

This depends on the type of booking. For school and group residentials, costs are typically based on the overall programme rather than individual activity choices, although some optional extras—such as visits to local attractions—may incur an additional charge. For direct bookings, certain activities can be selected and booked individually online, with pricing shown per activity. Our team is always happy to help clarify options and costs based on your booking type.

As with all outdoor activities, there is an element of risk, but at Skern Adventure this is carefully managed to ensure it remains at a very acceptable level. We are regularly inspected by a range of external bodies, including the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority, Paddle UK, the RYA, the Health & Safety Executive, local education authorities, and our insurers. In addition, we carry out regular risk assessments across all activities and wider site operations, including fire safety, catering, accommodation, and security. This thorough approach ensures a safe and well-managed environment for all visitors

All instructors at Skern Adventure are fully trained and qualified to deliver the activities they lead. They hold up-to-date first aid qualifications, are assessed as competent, and are regularly monitored to ensure high standards of safety and delivery. We follow national governing body guidelines and fully comply with Activity Licensing regulations, ensuring that all activities are led by appropriately qualified staff.

No, participation is always encouraged but never forced. At Skern Adventure, our programmes are designed to offer a mix of activities—some you may find easy, others more challenging—so everyone has the chance to enjoy and achieve something. While no one will be made to take part in an activity they’re uncomfortable with, our instructors will always encourage you to have a go and support you in building confidence. It’s a great opportunity to try new things and discover what you’re capable of.

Yes, we can cater for a wide range of dietary requirements. Our meals are known for both quality and quantity, with vegetarian and vegan options available as standard. We can accommodate specific dietary needs and allergies—please let us know in advance so we can plan accordingly.

Yes, there may be other groups on-site during your stay. We carefully manage group bookings to ensure a suitable mix of guests at all times. Accommodation is provided in separate, secure units, giving each group their own dedicated space while still enjoying the wider centre facilities.

Across both Skern Adventure centres, children are never off-site without supervision, and there are always both Skern staff and group leaders resident on-site. Buildings are secured at night, with locked doors and restricted window openings, while still allowing safe exit in case of emergency. Each site is well lit, with gates locked overnight to maintain a secure environment. All staff are carefully vetted as suitable to work with children and hold up-to-date DBS checks. When unaccompanied children visit, a dedicated member of staff is assigned to provide additional support and supervision.

Many activities at Skern Adventure take place on-site. For off-site activities, transport is provided using our own minibuses or a trusted local coach company. Our minibuses are Passenger Carrying Vehicles (PCV) operated under a licence, regularly inspected, and driven by qualified PCV-licensed drivers.

Activities at Skern Adventure run in most weather conditions. Each day, and again before every session, we assess the weather to ensure it is safe to proceed. In some cases, conditions such as strong winds or cold temperatures may make certain activities unsuitable. When this happens, we provide suitable alternatives so the programme can continue safely. Safety is never compromised.

Our group ratios vary depending on the activity, with most sessions operating at up to 1:10. For younger groups, ratios are typically reduced to around 1:8. Teaching staff are welcome to join activities, and we always work within the recommended ratios set by the relevant governing bodies for each activity.

All specialist equipment is provided and maintained to high standards, with regular safety checks carried out. Please bring suitable clothing for outdoor activities, appropriate for the weather and conditions.

No for overnight stays at both of our centres beds are made up for your arrival with duvets and pillows. You will however need to bring your own towel.

Very little.  Almost everything is included and any extras will have been clearly detailed before you book.  We do have a small shop on-site that sells toiletries, sweets, drinks, postcards and t-shirts etc. We are happy to accept payment by card over the phone (01237 475992) and provide a voucher to be exchanged in the shop on your child's arrival.

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Comfortable clothing and suitable footwear are recommended so visitors can move safely and easily. All specialist equipment is provided, and our instructors will guide groups through everything they need to know on the day.

Yes! Archery can be included in a school residential. Sessions are run by qualified instructors in a safe, supportive environment and are a firm favourite with visitors. It’s a great way to build confidence, focus and teamwork. Just let our team know when booking and we’ll do our best to include it in your programme.

Yes, everyone is welcome! Please be aware that all activities require pre-booking.  Some activities need to be set-up or we may need specialist trainers on the premises, so we need to know in advance who is coming.

Yes, archery is a safe and well-managed activity at Skern Adventure. All sessions begin with a full safety briefing and take place on a clearly designated range. Activities are closely supervised by trained and qualified instructors to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Booking with us is easy. Simply complete the enquiry form on our website or give us a call, and our team will guide you through the process. As programmes vary depending on group size, age, and activity choices, we’ll check availability and help tailor the right experience for you. Some activities can also be booked directly online via our activities page.

Yes, the assault course can be included as part of a school residential at Skern Adventure. At Abbotsham, groups can take on our wipeout-style, water-based course, while Appledore offers a smaller, land-based version. All sessions are led by qualified instructors in a safe and supportive environment, and are a firm favourite with visitors. It’s a great way to build confidence, focus, and teamwork. Let our team know when booking and we’ll aim to include it in your programme.

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Yes, our assault courses are available to the public at both centres. At Skern Abbotsham, you can take on our wipeout-style assault course with water elements, which can be booked online via our activities page. At Appledore, we offer a smaller, land-based assault course, with bookings arranged directly through the centre team.

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Please bring old trainers or water shoes that can get wet (no flip-flops or bare feet), a swimsuit to wear under your kit, and a towel for afterwards. We recommend comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting wet, along with a warm layer for after the session. All specialist safety equipment, including wetsuits, buoyancy aids, and helmets where required, is provided by Skern Adventure. On sunny days, we also suggest bringing sunscreen and a water bottle.

Yes, bodyboarding can be included as part of a school residential at Skern Adventure. It’s a popular and engaging activity that can be tailored to suit the age, ability, and confidence of each group. All sessions are led by qualified instructors, with full safety briefings and appropriate equipment provided. Activities are planned around tides and sea conditions, and we work with you in advance to ensure the programme meets your objectives while keeping everyone safe and engaged.

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Yes, our bodyboarding lessons are open to the public at selected times throughout the season. Sessions are led by qualified instructors and are suitable for a range of ages and abilities, from beginners to those with some experience. All necessary equipment is provided. Availability depends on dates, tides, and sea conditions, so we recommend getting in touch in advance to check session times and book your place.

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If the weather or sea conditions aren’t suitable, we always have alternative options. Our instructors continually assess conditions and will adapt the session to keep everyone safe and make the most of the day. This might mean running a different watersports activity, switching to a land-based session, or rescheduling where possible. Safety comes first, and we’ll always aim to provide a fun, worthwhile experience regardless of the conditions.

Yes, climbing can be included as part of a school residential at Skern Adventure. It’s a popular activity that can be tailored to suit the age, ability, and confidence of each group. Sessions are led by qualified instructors, with full safety briefings and equipment provided. The activity supports key outcomes such as confidence-building, problem-solving, teamwork, and resilience, making it a valuable part of any residential programme.

Yes, our climbing walls are open to the public at selected times. Sessions are instructor-led and suitable for a range of ages and abilities, including beginners. All equipment is provided, and sessions run subject to availability and conditions. You can book online via our activities page or contact the team for more information.

Yes. All climbing sessions at Skern Adventure begin with a full safety briefing delivered by our qualified and experienced instructors. Participants use approved, regularly inspected safety equipment, and every session is closely supervised. All activities are run in line with industry best practice and comprehensive risk assessments, with safety as our top priority.

Yes, our high ropes courses at both centres are open to the public at selected times throughout the year. Sessions are led by qualified instructors and are suitable for a range of ages and abilities. All safety equipment is provided, along with a full safety briefing before the activity begins. View our activities page to check availability and book online, or contact us for more information.

Safety is our top priority on our high ropes courses. All sessions are led by qualified, experienced instructors and begin with a full safety briefing. Participants wear appropriate safety equipment, including helmets, and are securely clipped into a continuous safety system at all times. All equipment is regularly inspected and tested to ensure it meets current safety standards, and instructors closely supervise the activity throughout.

Yes, kayaking can be included as part of a school residential at Skern Adventure centres. Sessions are led by qualified instructors and are tailored to the age, ability, and confidence of the group. All safety equipment is provided, and activities are planned around weather and water conditions. Kayaking is a great way to develop teamwork, confidence, and water skills while giving pupils an enjoyable and rewarding outdoor experience.

Yes, kayaking is open to the public at both Skern Adventure centres. Sessions are led by qualified instructors and are suitable for a range of ages and abilities, including beginners. All necessary equipment is provided. Availability can vary depending on conditions and demand, so we recommend contacting our team in advance to check session times and book.

On the whole activities are carried out regardless of the weather. Each morning, and just before starting an activity, an assessment is made about the weather. Sometimes strong winds can make kayaking unsafe, in which case an alternative activity will be found. Safety is never compromised.

Yes, surfing can be included as part of a school residential at Skern Adventure centres. Sessions are led by qualified instructors and are adapted to suit the age, ability, and confidence of the group. All safety equipment is provided, and activities are planned around tides and sea conditions. Surfing is an exciting way to build confidence and resilience, while giving pupils a memorable coastal experience.

Yes, our surf lessons are open to the public at selected times throughout the season. Sessions are led by qualified instructors and are suitable for a range of ages and abilities, from complete beginners to those with some experience. All necessary equipment is provided. Availability depends on tides, sea conditions, and demand, so we recommend getting in touch in advance to check session times and book.