Outdoor Activity Sessions

Wooden boardwalk leading over a pebble beach to a sandy shore with people enjoying a clear sunny day by the sea.

Flexible, instructor-led activities for individuals, families & groups

Skern Adventure offers a range of outdoor activity sessions for individuals, families and groups on the North Devon coast. Whether you are looking to try something new, build confidence or spend time outdoors, our activity programmes are designed to be accessible, well-structured and enjoyable.

We provide guided activity sessions for children, young people and adults, with options to suit different ages, abilities and experience levels. Activities include instructor-led sessions, bike hire along the Tarka Trail and access to on-site facilities such as our outdoor heated pool. Sessions are available as half-day, full-day or multi-day bookings, with flexible options to suit your plans.

We also offer tailored experiences for groups and seasonal programmes, including holiday clubs for children aged 8–16. Through the Devon HAF programme, eligible children aged 8–11 can access funded activities and meals during school holidays.

Activities

Abbotsham Activity Bookings

Skern Abbotsham offers a wide range of activities across land and water, including high ropes, climbing, assault courses, a purpose-built lake, and coasteering along the North Devon coastline.

Sessions are instructor-led and suitable for a variety of ages and abilities, with activities available to book directly online. Explore the full range of activities and plan your visit.

Person wearing protective gear and blue helmet riding a mountain board downhill on grass.
Child wearing helmet and life jacket jumping across large inflatable balls in a water obstacle course while others watch.
Group of children wearing helmets and harnesses preparing for outdoor rope climbing activity with instructor checking safety gear.
Smiling woman wearing sunglasses, a black cap, and a bright green shirt standing with arms crossed on a beach.

Appledore Adventure club

Our adventure holiday club runs throughout the school holidays, for children aged 8 - 16 years. Choose a morning, afternoon or full day, or book for the whole week. Ideal for busy working parents looking for somewhere fun and exciting to entertain their children.

Bike Hire

Our bike hire centre is perfectly positioned in Bideford with direct access to the Tarka Trail. We offer a wide range of well-maintained bikes for all ages and abilities, making it easy for everyone to enjoy the adventure.

Person cycling on a tree-lined path covered with autumn leaves during daylight.
Two people wearing helmets and harnesses climbing a wooden outdoor climbing wall with holds, under a clear blue sky.

Day visits

Skern Adventure offers day visits for individuals, families and groups looking to take part in outdoor activities on the North Devon coast. Whether you are planning a full day of activities or a shorter, guided session, our programmes provide a structured and accessible way to experience the outdoors.

Activities include kayaking on the estuary, surfing on North Devon’s beaches, climbing and archery, with options available to suit a range of ages and abilities. Our team can help you plan a day that fits your interests, time and group size, ensuring you get the most from your visit in a safe and supportive environment.

Swimming pool hire

Our heated outdoor pool is available to hire for groups, friends and families.  A qualified lifeguard is on duty at all times, and to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the pool is limited to a maximum of 20 swimmers at any one time.

Outdoor swimming pool with clear blue water next to a building with colourful kayaks lined up against the wall.
Group of children in wetsuits lying on surfboards on the beach practicing paddling techniques with an instructor in a green jacket.
Child wearing helmet and harness climbing a wooden pole with metal rungs against a blue sky.

HAF Programme

As part of the Devon HAF scheme, children aged 8–11 years who are eligible for free school meals can now enjoy a fun-filled afternoon at one of our Skern Adventure centres – completely free of charge. Each session includes a nutritious hot meal on arrival, followed by a variety of engaging and active outdoor activities designed to encourage confidence, teamwork, and new skills – all in a safe and supportive environment.

Whether it’s exploring the outdoors, trying out exciting challenges, or simply having fun with new friends, our HAF sessions offer children a chance to enjoy meaningful experiences during the school holidays.

How late can I book?

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

  • 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.

Modern wooden building with large glass windows and picnic tables outside on a sunny day.

Our centres

Our two Skern Adventure centres in North Devon offer different settings, different activities, and the same focus on great days out. From coastal experiences at Appledore to high-impact land-based adventure at Abbotsham, each location provides a safe, well-run environment where friends and families can get active, try something new, and make the most of their time outdoors.

Looking for the next adventure?

Get in touch with our friendly team.

Group of 25 adults posing outdoors on grass under trees, wearing casual clothes including green polo shirts and shorts.