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The Oaklands Centre
Capel Garmon Road
Betws-y-Coed
Conwy, NORTH WALES
LL26 0RB

T: 01690 710500
F: 01690 710420

oaklands@wirral.gov.uk

The following activities are what you could choose to do on any course.  All costs including meals, instruction, transport at the Centre, equipment and clothing are covered by our standard prices. Click here for the PRICE LIST

Single Pitch Rock Climbing and Abseiling
This is how most people are introduced to rock climbing.  Opportunities to learn climbing techniques, how to use specialist equipment and how to ascend and descend.  In good weather this will take place on crags in the locality, in poor weather there is the option of using indoor climbing walls.
Mountain Walking and Scrambling

Walking in the mountains, perhaps doing a ridge walk, hopefully a summit. Scrambling is rough walking over steep ground, where hands are needed for support, usually on higher mountain ridges.  Being on the edge of the Snowdonia National Park means that we are excellently situated for mountain walking and scrambling.  We can also offer lower level walks in less rugged terrain.

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Gorge Walking

Usually a wet activity, a journey up or down a gorge, involving scrambling, perhaps a swim and some slides.  It is one of the most popular activities on offer. 

There are different levels of gorge in the area:

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Gorges where the group can travel without using a rope but are involved in scrambling activities.

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Gorges where students may have to wait as each member is roped up a rock climbing section. 

Sea Level Traversing
An adventurous activity where you journey along a section of coastal cliff.  This may involve the use of climbing techniques and equipment and is often a wet activity.  Most sea level traversing will take place on the Anglesey coast.

Kayaking & Canoeing

Canoeing accross Llyn Geironydd

Opportunities exist to either kayak or canoe on local lakes, rivers and the sea.  We are able to cater for the complete beginner to confident paddlers who want to develop their paddling/coaching skills.
Kayaking is usually a solo boat, paddled with a double bladed paddle. The canoeing we do here is often referred to as Canadian or Open Canoeing.

Kayaking a drop on the River Dee

Mine Exploration

Traversing a flooded chamber in Rhywbach Slate Mine

Exploration underground in either natural caves or man made mines, some are walk in walk out whilst others involve the use of ropes.  There is a wealth of social history surrounding the mines of North Wales  and a trip under ground will give you a fascinating insight into the way things were.
Problem Solving

We can arrange a series of problem solving activities, which will be fun, challenging and involve teamwork.  These activities can be done purely for enjoyment or in order to learn about effective teamwork, planning and communication.  The activities will be physical but will need some degree of thought and can be tailored to suit your needs.

Raft Building
A fun activity, which can be run as a competition if you wish.  The participants build a raft and paddle it over a set distance.
Orienteering
An activity using maps to find various control points.  Orienteering is generally a competitive activity and is suitable for all ages and abilities.  We have access to 3 orienteering courses on the Oakland's site and there are plenty more in the locality.

NON STANDARD ACTIVITIES - the following activities may incur costs not included in our standard pricing structure due to increased staffing ratios or the need for extra equipment. Either ring us on 01690 710 500 or email oaklands@wirral.gov.uk to discuss you requirements.

Multi-Pitch Rock Climbing
This is where the crag is higher than one rope length, the climb may be quite long and students will be attached at various points to await their turn to climb. We have a wealth of multi pitch climbing in the area from mountain crags, to limestone escarpments and sea cliff climbing.  This can be for beginners or the more experienced climber.
Ratios 1:3
Mountain Biking
We are excellently situated for mountain biking from beginners to experts; there is something suitable for all.  We hire bikes locally at reduced rates for you and offer instruction and advice on routes.
Dry Slope Skiing
There are two dry ski slopes in the area, which can be used.  Price and ratios on request.
Pony Trekking
Pony trekking can be arranged on your behalf with local stables.  There are some great rides in the area for beginners and the more experienced.
White Water Rafting
This is a fun activity involving traveling down a white water river in an inflatable craft.  We do not have rafts at the Oaklands Centre but can negotiate reduced rates at a nearby Centre on your behalf.

INFORMATION

We tailor courses to meet the aims and requirements of our students. Course programmes are arrived at through discussion with visiting groups and staff.

Activities are offered from the most basic levels to advanced and specialist courses.

Ratios - maximum ratios are set for many different reasons.  Our standard working ratio is 1 instructor to 12 group members (including group leaders or staff).  This takes into account safety, group management, transport, equipment and environmental issues as well as the task of teaching in the outdoor environment.  Some specialist courses or groups with special needs may require different ratios.  Please contact us on 01690 710 500 or email us to discuss your requirements

 

 

 Last Revised: 06/11/2008 Copyright © 2002 The Oaklands Centre. All rights reserved.