Residential Trip Residentials London & South East Surrey
High Ashurst offers schools an exciting outdoor learning experience in the heart of the Surrey Hills, with programmes tailored to the age, needs and learning outcomes of each group.Students take part in practical activities such as climbing, high ropes, archery, orienteering and woodland skills, with opportunities to challenge themselves, solve problems and work together. Activities are led by experienced outdoor education instructors and can be adapted around the outcomes a school wants to achieve.
A visit is about more than adventure. Pupils develop communication, teamwork, confidence, independence and resilience while learning through practical experiences outside the classroom. Teachers can choose from day visits or residential experiences and work with SOLD to create a programme suited to their pupils.
We have special rates for schools in quieter months
Off Peak Winter Residentials
"All the adventure, all the activities—at a fraction of the price!"
This winter, we are offering brilliant, fully inclusive residential packages that will get your young people out of the classroom and into the outdoors.
Winter residentials are an excellent opportunity to foster strong bonds amongst new year groups!
These trips are fantastic for boosting confidence, enhancing teamwork skills, and encouraging children to collaborate more effectively.
It's a perfect way for everyone to get to know each other better right at the beginning of the academic year.
A comprehensive outdoor learning programme will keep them exhilarated during the day.
In the evenings they will enjoy a warm and toasty stay in our deluxe log cabins at High Ashurst, whilst enjoying home-cooked meals and as much hot chocolate as they can drink!
All of our outreach days can be tailored to fit your needs and desired learning outcomes.
Here are some popular requests:
Activity days to improve personal and social development
New "year group" induction days or leavers' celebration days
End of year fun days
Open day events for the public or organisations
Progressive activity programmes on a weekly basis
National Curriculum-linked activity sessions
Themed days, such as: History, Maths, Literature, Science
'All classes' orienteering or team building days for teacher training
We will create a bespoke outdoor learning programme for the young people in your school.
What activities are available during educational visits in 2027?
Abseiling
Abseiling involves being in control, with assistance, of two ropes descending down a flat wall. Different challenges can be set depending on the confidence of the participant. Challenge by choice will be explained and then one at a time the participants climb the stairs, which are situated inside the climbing tower, and at the top of the tower the instructor will meet them to be clipped in. The instructor will then explain how the ropes work and step-by-step the participant will be lowered and abseiling will commence.
Archery
Safety rules are given, followed by an explanation of the bows and arrows and how to shoot, covering standing positions etc. Once the group is clear then one at a time they step up and shoot three arrows with the guidance of the instructor, once they are clear on technique and have all been seen by the instructor, they get a couple of practise rounds and time permitting games may then be played.
Challenge Course
Low level (non-harnessed) ropes course, comprising of various team exercises aiming at group cohesion and teamwork development. Thirteen individual elements are linked together in a circular course with the objective of getting round without touching the ground.
Climbing
The session starts with some low level climbing, called bouldering or traversing, developing the trust between the climber and their supporting partner, who has to 'spot' the climber to make sure they are in contact with the wall.
Bouldering and traversing is limited to 1 metre. Then the instructor talks the group through ascending and descending the wall using a 'gri-gri' (an assisted braking belay device).
When one person is climbing the rest of the group will be supporting the climber or belaying.
Evening session
This session runs from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.
During a typical evening session, we'll take a leisurely stroll around the site to learn about the history of High Ashurst and discover some interesting facts about the local nature.
This will be followed by some fun games to get everyone moving before settling down for the night.
We'll then gather around a cosy campfire for a debrief with the instructors to reflect on the day and get ready for what's ahead.
If you have any specific content you'd like to discuss, feel free to chat with your programme lead beforehand!
There are three elements - Incline Log, Cat Walk and Trapeze.
High Ropes 1
Incline Log walking from ground level up a five metre incline log, turning round at the top ready to run back down the log and experience a "flying" sensation.
The cat walk accessing the catwalk via a ladder, climbing up onto a horizontal log seven metres high. Walk along the 12 metre log and back to half way, where there are several options, of varying difficulties, to descend.
Individual trapeze climbing up a ladder to a six metre high platform and jumping from the platform out to catch a trapeze. The trapeze can be moved out depending on the ability of the group.
High Ropes 3
Team orientated task area, comprising crate challenge, Jacob's ladder, all aboard and two-person trapeze.
Where all group members are involved in either the activity or helping with safety by belaying of other members.
Crate challenge crates are stacked up while up to four group members climb together, as the rest of the group build up the stack.
Up to four team members tackle the 4 metres wide ladder together offering assistance to one another. As the team progress higher the runs on the ladder get further apart posing more of a challenge as the team develops their technique.
All aboard up to four team members climb the pole individually and when all members are at the top, holding onto each other, they lean back putting their trust in the other team members.
Three-person trapeze up to three people climb the pole and wait at the platform for the rest of the participants. When all are there they jump for the trapeze together. The trapeze can be moved out depending on the ability of the group.
Mountain biking
Practical clothing is a must and an ability to ride a bike is very important.
Minimum inside leg height is 26 inches.
Helmets are provided, gloves and glasses are encouraged to be worn.
Local/Set High Ashurst route and return for bike cleaning and maintenance.
Mountain biking - group session
Participants must have basic cycling skills, including the ability to start, stop, and manoeuvre their bike in open spaces and around other cyclists without causing incidents or collisions.
Non-riders:
If a non-rider is present, staff will try to accommodate them where possible. However, the main focus will be on ensuring the group of riders has the best experience.
Non-riders will need to stay at the base during any cycling journeys, and no further cycling instruction or liability will be provided by SOLD.
The leader must be on a bike.
Mountain biking - onsite
Starting with tuition in basic bike safety checks, moving on to practical application of brakes and gears.
Skills course to improve and develop technique to discussing what is required for an off site ride.
Mountain biking - offsite
Usually part of a progressive programme, a High Ashurst onsite session must have taken place first to allow instructor to assess suitability of the group.
Ranges of venues are available such as Headley Heath etc. New areas can be set up.
Orienteering
Depending on the ability of the group, orienteering can be started off at many levels, from simple number and compass games to using a fixed post course onsite, and advancing onto participants setting up their own courses and giving them to other members of their group to complete.
Team Tasks
Uses collective knowledge, inventiveness, communication and common sense to achieve success at the chosen and set challenge. In a team of up to ten, an instructor will challenge the group to succeed at a series of problems, mental or physical (sometimes both). The instructor can adjust the game to make it more or less challenging for the group. An ideal exercise to look closely at group dynamics.
Woodland skills
To enhance your group's experience and learning, we're now offering a choice of specific activities.
If you have a 3-hour Woodland Skills session you will be able to choose two activities from the list below
If you have a 1.5-hour Woodland Skills session you will be able to choose one activity from the list below.
Fire lighting; Look at the basics for fire lighting, covering a few different methods for the group to light their own fires, finishing with a group fire and popcorn, reflecting on fire safety.
Shelter Building; Discover survival shelter techniques using natural resources, tarps, and twine. Groups will plan, negotiate, and build their own shelters together.
Cooking on an open fire; Experience the joy of cooking over an open flame. Learn life skills by preparing and cooking simple food (usually basic bread). Please let us know about any dietary requirements.
Woodland Crafts and Tools; Get creative using natural materials and basic tools to make a memorable craft. Learn safe tool use (bow saws, palm drills, loppers). This activity requires a group leader to help supervise.
This gets the group thinking about drawing maps and greatly builds on map reading skills.
Abseiling involves being in control, with assistance, of two ropes descending down a flat wall. Different challenges can be set depending on the confidence of the participant. Challenge by choice will be explained and then one at a time the participants climb the stairs, which are situated inside the climbing tower, and at the top of the tower the instructor will meet them to be clipped in. The instructor will then explain how the ropes work and step-by-step the participant will be lowered and abseiling will commence.
Archery
Safety rules are given, followed by an explanation of the bows and arrows and how to shoot, covering standing positions etc. Once the group is clear then one at a time they step up and shoot three arrows with the guidance of the instructor, once they are clear on technique and have all been seen by the instructor, they get a couple of practise rounds and time permitting games may then be played.
Challenge Course
Low level (non-harnessed) ropes course, comprising of various team exercises aiming at group cohesion and teamwork development. Thirteen individual elements are linked together in a circular course with the objective of getting round without touching the ground.
Climbing
The session starts with some low level climbing, called bouldering or traversing, developing the trust between the climber and their supporting partner, who has to 'spot' the climber to make sure they are in contact with the wall.
Bouldering and traversing is limited to 1 metre. Then the instructor talks the group through ascending and descending the wall using a 'gri-gri' (an assisted braking belay device).
When one person is climbing the rest of the group will be supporting the climber or belaying.
Evening session
This session runs from 6.30pm to 8.30pm.
During a typical evening session, we'll take a leisurely stroll around the site to learn about the history of High Ashurst and discover some interesting facts about the local nature.
This will be followed by some fun games to get everyone moving before settling down for the night.
We'll then gather around a cosy campfire for a debrief with the instructors to reflect on the day and get ready for what's ahead.
If you have any specific content you'd like to discuss, feel free to chat with your programme lead beforehand!
There are three elements - Incline Log, Cat Walk and Trapeze.
High Ropes 1
Incline Log walking from ground level up a five metre incline log, turning round at the top ready to run back down the log and experience a "flying" sensation.
The cat walk accessing the catwalk via a ladder, climbing up onto a horizontal log seven metres high. Walk along the 12 metre log and back to half way, where there are several options, of varying difficulties, to descend.
Individual trapeze climbing up a ladder to a six metre high platform and jumping from the platform out to catch a trapeze. The trapeze can be moved out depending on the ability of the group.
High Ropes 3
Team orientated task area, comprising crate challenge, Jacob's ladder, all aboard and two-person trapeze.
Where all group members are involved in either the activity or helping with safety by belaying of other members.
Crate challenge crates are stacked up while up to four group members climb together, as the rest of the group build up the stack.
Up to four team members tackle the 4 metres wide ladder together offering assistance to one another. As the team progress higher the runs on the ladder get further apart posing more of a challenge as the team develops their technique.
All aboard up to four team members climb the pole individually and when all members are at the top, holding onto each other, they lean back putting their trust in the other team members.
Three-person trapeze up to three people climb the pole and wait at the platform for the rest of the participants. When all are there they jump for the trapeze together. The trapeze can be moved out depending on the ability of the group.
Mountain biking
Practical clothing is a must and an ability to ride a bike is very important.
Minimum inside leg height is 26 inches.
Helmets are provided, gloves and glasses are encouraged to be worn.
Local/Set High Ashurst route and return for bike cleaning and maintenance.
Mountain biking - group session
Participants must have basic cycling skills, including the ability to start, stop, and manoeuvre their bike in open spaces and around other cyclists without causing incidents or collisions.
Non-riders:
If a non-rider is present, staff will try to accommodate them where possible. However, the main focus will be on ensuring the group of riders has the best experience.
Non-riders will need to stay at the base during any cycling journeys, and no further cycling instruction or liability will be provided by SOLD.
The leader must be on a bike.
Mountain biking - onsite
Starting with tuition in basic bike safety checks, moving on to practical application of brakes and gears.
Skills course to improve and develop technique to discussing what is required for an off site ride.
Mountain biking - offsite
Usually part of a progressive programme, a High Ashurst onsite session must have taken place first to allow instructor to assess suitability of the group.
Ranges of venues are available such as Headley Heath etc. New areas can be set up.
Orienteering
Depending on the ability of the group, orienteering can be started off at many levels, from simple number and compass games to using a fixed post course onsite, and advancing onto participants setting up their own courses and giving them to other members of their group to complete.
Team Tasks
Uses collective knowledge, inventiveness, communication and common sense to achieve success at the chosen and set challenge. In a team of up to ten, an instructor will challenge the group to succeed at a series of problems, mental or physical (sometimes both). The instructor can adjust the game to make it more or less challenging for the group. An ideal exercise to look closely at group dynamics.
Woodland skills
To enhance your group's experience and learning, we're now offering a choice of specific activities.
If you have a 3-hour Woodland Skills session you will be able to choose two activities from the list below
If you have a 1.5-hour Woodland Skills session you will be able to choose one activity from the list below.
Fire lighting; Look at the basics for fire lighting, covering a few different methods for the group to light their own fires, finishing with a group fire and popcorn, reflecting on fire safety.
Shelter Building; Discover survival shelter techniques using natural resources, tarps, and twine. Groups will plan, negotiate, and build their own shelters together.
Cooking on an open fire; Experience the joy of cooking over an open flame. Learn life skills by preparing and cooking simple food (usually basic bread). Please let us know about any dietary requirements.
Woodland Crafts and Tools; Get creative using natural materials and basic tools to make a memorable craft. Learn safe tool use (bow saws, palm drills, loppers). This activity requires a group leader to help supervise.
This gets the group thinking about drawing maps and greatly builds on map reading skills.
Which curriculum topics do we cater for?
Bushcraft School Trip
Discover the art of bushcraft and learn practical outdoor skills in a fun, hands-on environment. From lighting fires and building shelters to understanding nature, foraging and using natural resources, participants develop confidence, teamwork and problem-solving skills while enjoying an exciting experience in the great outdoors.
Prehistory
>Outdoor Learning
>Physical Education
>Team Building
>Vikings
>Romans
Saxons
PSHE Transition Days Teamwork and resilience
What size groups do we cater for?
Accommodation
Overall Capacity: High Ashurst can accommodate up to 236 residential guests split between cabins and bell tents.
The log Cabins can accommodate 96 people.
The two bell tent villages can accommodate a total of 12 adults and 128 young adults.
Deluxe Log Cabins (Horizon, Outlook, Viewpoint): Each cabin sleeps up to 20 guests across six bedrooms featuring sturdy wooden bunks, plush seating, ensuite bathrooms, and fresh linen. They include a spacious living area and a kitchenette stocked with hot drinks. On-site catering is required for these cabins.
Accessible Cabin (Pinnacle): Built specifically for guests with high mobility needs, this cabin sleeps up to 20 guests across four bedrooms. Features include electrically adjustable beds, underfloor heating, and ensuite bathrooms with height-adjustable basins and showers.
High Ashurst offers two bell-tent villages that provide a simple, ready-made camping experience for school groups and youth organisations.
Each village area has a total of:
2 leader teepees with 3 beds
8 bell tents for 8 young people in each
1 communal teepee for meeting with seating, mains power, a fridge and a kettle
A shelter for group activities and socialising
Overall Capacity: High Ashurst can accommodate up to 236 residential guests split between cabins and bell tents.
The log Cabins can accommodate 96 people.
The two bell tent villages can accommodate a total of 12 adults and 128 young adults.
Deluxe Log Cabins (Horizon, Outlook, Viewpoint): Each cabin sleeps up to 20 guests across six bedrooms featuring sturdy wooden bunks, plush seating, ensuite bathrooms, and fresh linen. They include a spacious living area and a kitchenette stocked with hot drinks. On-site catering is required for these cabins.
Accessible Cabin (Pinnacle): Built specifically for guests with high mobility needs, this cabin sleeps up to 20 guests across four bedrooms. Features include electrically adjustable beds, underfloor heating, and ensuite bathrooms with height-adjustable basins and showers.
High Ashurst offers two bell-tent villages that provide a simple, ready-made camping experience for school groups and youth organisations.
Each village area has a total of:
2 leader teepees with 3 beds
8 bell tents for 8 young people in each
1 communal teepee for meeting with seating, mains power, a fridge and a kettle
A shelter for group activities and socialising
Groups with Special Educational Needs & Disabilities (SEND)
At SOLD, we believe that outdoor experiences can and should benefit any and every person, regardless of physical, mental or psychological needs.
From training, planning and delivery, to equipment and building new facilities, inclusion is always front of mind in every aspect of our work.
We believe that the benefit of learning, developing and enjoying oneself in the outdoors are for everyone, no matter their needs. This is especially true for young people for whom opportunities for personal development are vital.
Our instructors have extensive experience in working with young people with Special Educational Needs (SEN) and disabilities in groups with mixed needs and abilities.
Teacher Checklist
Enhanced DBS Check
Get Risk Assessments
LOtC Quality Badge
Institute of Outdoor Learning
British Activity Providers Association
Duke of Edinburgh Award
RYA Centre
Paddle UK Centre
AHOEC Gold
£50m PL Insurance
Who are High Ashurst?
Surrey Outdoor Learning and Development (SOLD) is committed to achieving positive personal development through outdoor experiences that challenge the mind and body.
We offer fully catered, comfortable, and safe group accommodation across our outdoor centres, giving young people and groups the immersive experience of spending days and nights, out in nature.
Our Residential Experience
Multi-day packages designed for primary, secondary, and higher education groups that combine outdoor adventure with character building, self-reliance, and team building.
Group Bookings: Overnight stays and full-catering solutions for youth clubs, Scouts, Guides, sports teams, religious groups.
Gold DofE Residentials: At SOLD we are a proud Duke of Edinburgh's Approved Activity Provider. We help all young people, no matter their background, achieve personal excellence with The Duke of Edinburgh's Award (DofE). Following the principles of DofE is our dedication. These principles focus on personal and social growth, achieved through shared outdoor experiences.
Specialist and Inclusive Stays: Tailored overnight options for young people with SEND or complex needs, with fully accessible facilities, small staff-to-participant ratios, and adaptive support.
Accommodation Types Across Our Sites
High Ashurst (Dorking) - Offers wooden cabins with bunk rooms, dedicated leader rooms, and communal spaces, as well as seasonal bell tent villages for a true woodland camping experience in the Surrey Hills.
Henley Fort (Guildford) - Features historic fort-style indoor accommodation alongside Yurt accommodation for an unforgettable, atmospheric group stay.
Thames Young Mariners (Richmond) - Provides seasonal bell tents style camping and lakeside accommodation right on our 25-acre private site
Every enquiry gives you a chance to win trips and workshops for your school - We are giving away a free trip for every week of the Autumn term!
Dorking Surrey RH5 6DG
