Caving Experiences

Introductory Caving

A weekend of subterranean exploration, suitable for novices, discovering the unique underground world of Yorkshire’s famous caves. In the company of qualified and knowledgeable instructors and with all specialist equipment provided, you only need moderate fitness and flexibility, and an adventurous streak to venture into the depths.

Intermediate Caving

For those with some previous underground experience who want a taste of the vertical, this course offers an opportunity to descend and ascend pitches within cave systems in order to access the more difficult, less frequented areas. Detailed instruction from qualified cavers plus all specialist equipment are provided to further your underground aspirations.

Advanced Caving

For those who have experienced caving and want to take it further. Whether you want to learn to rig a cave safely so you can become independent or maybe you just want an experienced and qualified caver to do all the work for you whilst you follow into the more adventurous caves in Yorkshire! Our advanced course will be tailored to those on it so you’ll be guaranteed to get the most from your time.

Please enquire for prices. 

 

Accommodation

Camping

We are now offering camping space for up to 36 people - a truly 'in tents' experience! 

You can bring your own tents or we can arrange to supply them for you. Camping groups will be allocated their own washing and dining facilities. 

Camping is a great value way to enjoy a residential activity programme, and itself offers additional opportunities for learning and personal development.

Sports Complex

The sports complex can be booked on a fully- or self-catered basis and can accommodate a total of 36 people in dormitories varying in size from 2 to 12 beds.  

It has a combined dining and lounge area and is equipped with a stairlift for those with limited mobility.

The Lakehouse

The Lakehouse is our newest addition to the Centre completed in 2023, it has lovely views out over the Lake. 

 

Lakehouse building plan.

The Stables

The Stables can be booked on a fully catered basis and can accommodate a total of 36 people in dormitories varying in size from 2 to 8 beds. 

The Stables feature a dining area and separate communal lounge, as well as 3 downstairs, wheelchair-accessible dormitories with adjacent accessible showers and toilets. 

FAQs

Can we run our own Activities using your equipment?

Sorry no - because of the training requirements and risk assessments we have to put in place we can't let you do your own adventorous activties. We do allow ball games, wide games and problem solving on the field during your down time but you will need to bring your own equipment. 

Do we need to bring any bedding?

Carlton Lodge provides all bedding even for the self catered.The exception is those that are camping in their own tents.

Do you have risk assessments?

Yes, risk assessments cover all aspects of our operations and a risk management summary is available for group leaders.

Does Carlton Lodge cater for disabled and special needs?

Yes we do. The Stables accommodation is fully accessible and all activities can be adapted to any need.

Does Carlton Lodge cater for special dietary requirements?

Yes. With prior warning the majority of special dietary requirements can be catered for.

Is Carlton Lodge a no smoking site.

Yes smoking is not allowed on site or in any Centre vehicles. 

Is your centre accredited?

Yes. We conform to UK national governing bodies codes of practice where applicable and the centre is licensed by AALA (Adventure Activities Licensing Authority).

What activities can I do and how long do they last?

There are four activities per day. Start time 9.30am until 4.30pm with an hour for lunch. Each activity lasts 1 hour 30 minutes. We also offer inclusive packages which include evening activities between the hours of 7.00pm and 8.30pm.

Who can use Carlton Lodge?

Anyone. Our specailty is working with organised groups of young people. We recommend that minimum numbers should be eight but if you have less, please get in touch and we will do our best to help. 

What People Say

Paul and I would just like to say how grateful we are for the activity weekend that you put on for us recently.

Bex, Scott and George were absolutely superb hosts from the moment we arrived throughout the activities until we left the following day.

With yourself and your colleagues supporting us internally you made it a very enjoyable weekend for our very boisterous rugby team.

The accommodation and facilities were exactly what we needed and we would highly recommend this to anyone thinking of making a booking.

 

Andrew Wheelhouse & Paul Ripley Kippax Welfare ARLFC U12’s
What People Say

Another perfect visit, thank you Heart

Clifton Community school
What People Say

"A great experience for our team, delivered well and in a great location. Highly recommendable" 

Kippax Welfare
What People Say

Thank you for another fantastic experience at Carlton Lodge. Our students (with many additional needs) have had an unbelievable time. The staff have made every activity fun and have been kind and encouraged yet always challenged our students. 

King James
What People Say

"I particularly enjoyed the zip wire because i felt like i was flying"

Tom W, Aged 12 
What People Say

“I am writing to say a giant THANK YOU for making Carlton Lodge the best experience of my life!”

Jasmin, aged 10
What People Say

We can honestly say this is the best residential we have ever attended. 

Thorpe Primary School - June 2018
What People Say

Everyone loved it and didn’t want to leave, even with the snow.

12th Harrogate, St.Marks, Brownies
What People Say

“The rooms were excellent and the food was gorgeous!”

James, Aged 9
What People Say

“The instructors made me smile because I knew I was safe in their hands.”

Kaitlyn, aged 10
What People Say

"This was our best visit ever, mainly due to Sam and Jake who totally understood our students. The Catering staff were so friendly and of course the food was delicious"

King James School - Sept 2018
What People Say

"We were extremely impressed by the professionalism, enthusiasm and patience that your instructors showed in every activity."

Youth Worker, Hull
What People Say

“It was the best school trip ever, I would like to go back and do it all again.”

Maddison, aged 10
What People Say

 “Always a real pleasure to come to Carlton Lodge. A lovely setting, amazing friendly staff and comfortable accommodation. Can't wait for next year for more of the same.”

Ings Primary School - May 2018
What People Say

"The group were all encouraged and supported to achieve their goals - amazing instructors!"

College Tutor, North Yorkshire
Adventure Activities Licensing Authority
AHOEC Leading Outdoor Learning
BCA Approved Provider
Rated 5 for food hygiene
Institute for Outdoor Learning
Quality badge awarded by Council for Learning Outside the Classroom
Mountain Training Association