FAQ

Operating in the north west of England as we do, the one thing Outdoor Elements cannot organise is the weather!  We will take into account the time of year and the expected weather when suggesting activities for our customers but sometimes July can feel like February. We like to see this as all part of the outdoor experience and Outdoor Elements continue to operate in all weather conditions so we recommend dressing for the forecasted weather. In exceptional circumstance of severe weather events such as high winds or extreme cold it may be necessary to offer an alternative activity or venue or even postpone to another date. This happens very rarely. Outdoor Elements will offer advice on suitable clothing to wear within a kit list issued at the time of booking.  Keep an eye on the weather.

Outdoor Elements provides all the specialist personal protective equipment (PPE) for the activity such as helmets, harnesses and buoyancy aids. We will issue a kit list with suggestions of what you should wear and recommend extra layers as it is cooler in the woodland where activities take place. Just don’t wear your best gear and be prepared to get mucky. It’s all part of the fun!

Generally the activities are suitable for age 8 to adult. We find that children younger than 8 do not have the motor skills required with the upper limit depending on how physically fit and willing the person is. Our activities are adaptable to all ages however and we have worked with customers age 18 months to 90+ years. We do have woodland discovery programmes for nursery and primary age children; plus party packages suitable for ages 5-7. 

For most activities Outdoor Elements works with a ratio of 1 instructor to 10 participants. Depending on the activity and the venue we can offer activities for up to 100 people. Generally, groups of between 10 and 50 people is more usual.

We don’t have a set price list as such because we like to offer a bespoke solution to each individual enquiry. We like to think we offer a great service which is value for money. If you make an enquiry detailing: type of group, number in group, which activities, preferred timings and locations we will endeavour to provide a quote and programme within 2 working days.

It is best to send an email with all your details and requirements.  We can then send through a quote and confirmation on availability.  If you wish to go ahead, please confirm via email and then we will email a booking confirmation with T&Cs, a medical form, kit list, participation statement and an invoice.

We ask for a 50% deposit to secure the booking unless you issue a purchase order number from your organisation.  Payments can be done via online banking or you can post a cheque.  The balance is then required 4 weeks prior to the day of the activity. If the booking is for within four weeks, then the full amount is to be paid within 48 hours (bank transfer or cash).

Outdoor Elements carries full professional indemnity, public Liability and employers’ liability insurance for all activities. Our insurance does not cover you for personal accident however and you may decide you would like to take out your own insurance. Your instructors will fully explain any risks involved in the activity and as long as you follow the advice and instructions given then you will be perfectly safe. Statistically outdoor pursuits and adventure activities are a lot safer than most team sports such as five-a-side football.

Yes, risk assessments are available for all activities and outdoor venues. These are available upon request.

Our pricing structure is based on a group of 10 people as a minimum so if you want to book an activity individually this can work out a bit expensive.  We can work with smaller groups, just split the cost between those attending.

No.  None of the activities we offer to schools or groups of young people under the age of 18 (not accompanied by a parent or carer) come under current licensing regulations.

Yes. All Outdoor Elements staff have clearance from the Disclosure and Barring Service. And these are updated at regular intervals.

If arriving in a coach or double deck bus please follow these alternative directions to avoid congestion on School Lane (South of Trapp Lane).  At the traffic lights (junction of A6068 with A671) continue straight ahead towards Nelson. Take the first left onto Slade Lane and continue onto Whins Lane. Caution narrow bends.  After 1km at the cross roads turn left onto Trapp Lane.  Outdoor Elements is on the right after 500m.  Drive directly into the car park as it is possible to turn in the car park.