Why Outward Bound?

Manchester Unlimited

Ian Brown once said Manchester's got everything except a beach. Well, at Outward Bound we've got beaches!

But we're way more than just sand and the sea! We're a chance to jump in feet first and make your own waves. To experience a summer like no other and explore nature, so when you get home you feel empowered with a sense of adventure.

Please accept marketing-cookies to watch this video.

Going on an adventure

The Oxford English dictionary defines adventure as: "An unusual and exciting or daring experience". But that doesn't mean we're after the next Indiana Jones or Lara Croft...

In fact, we're after people like you. People who want to take a leap in life. A leap from the living room to the lakeside, the make-up box to the mountain top, the group chat to the real-life chat.

Adventure isn't just exploring uncharted lands, it's about discovering your talent. Finding out what you're capable of and confronting the voice in your head that says "maybe tomorrow" and replacing it with "actually, today".

If this sounds like your cuppa tea, then apply now.

Choose your adventure

Apply for funding

What is Manchester Unlimited?

Since 2018, Manchester Unlimited has been enabling young people from across the Greater Manchester Combined Authority to take part in our summer adventures.

Removing the roadblocks that would otherwise prevent them from taking part and realising their potential.

In-short Manchester Unlimited exists to ensure Greater Manchester's next generation can achieve more than they think by offering opportunities and funding to those most in need.

Apply now

Frequently asked questions

Can I apply for funding?

Absolutely! Providing you're aged 11-19 and live in the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, anyone can apply.

It doesn't matter where you're at in life or where you're going - Manchester Unlimited is for you. Applications are assessed based on your appetite for adventure and determination to overcome whatever is holding you back in life.

That means if you're living in Bolton, Bury, Manchester, Oldham, Rochdale, Salford, Stockport, Tameside, Trafford and Wigan you can apply.

The Outward Bound Trust are proud members of Greater Manchester Youth network.

If you live outside of those areas check out our Summer Adventures and Adventure Fund pages for other ways to get involved.

What will I be doing?

An Outward Bound summer adventure is unlike any other summer experience in the country.

First things first, it's not about quad biking, archery or other in-grounds activities. We believe learning about yourself happens best out in the wild, away from the distractions of everyday life. That's why on Outward Bound you'll go on a breath-taking journey across land and water, amid some of the UK's most spectacular places, with the most amazing people by your side.

Our adventures run from the end of June, throughout July and August to the start of September. We have several course types to choose from ranging from short 5-day adventures to full-blown 19-day expeditions. The start date, location and course type is up to you.

Whatever you choose a summer adventure will give you the confidence to tackle the real world head on.

> Browse course dates, venues and prices

How much does it cost?

Our 5-day adventures are £499, 7-day £699, 14-day £1399 and 19-day adventures are £1,900.

But here's the deal: To you, the wonderful people of Greater Manchester, it can be less - potentially much less. You just have to let us know why you need the our support.

Manchester Unlimited is all about defying limitations, whether they be financial or otherwise we want to know about it in your application.

Funding is limited and may be restricted to specific dates so we recommend that you apply as early as possible.

Our adventures are all-inclusive, we can also provide a coach transfer service from Manchester Piccadilly to our Aberdovey centre for £50 (For the full list of pick up points and centres click here).

If money is not a limiting factor you can also sign up directly by applying directly on our Summer Adventures page.

> Apply Now

Is this really for me?

Not sure if this is for you? Why not check this out: 7 reasons NOT to go Outward Bound this summer - and how to get over them

If you're still unsure, have lots of questions or would just like to find out a little more feel free to contact us using @outwardbounduk on Twitter, or by messaging us on Facebook or Instagram. You can also email us using: enquiries@outwardbound.org.uk

Alternatively, if you'd prefer to speak to a human you can always call us on 01931 7400 00 [option 2]. Lines are open Monday - Friday 9am - 5pm!

We also have a list of commonly asked questions and answers about our summer adventures here.

Going from NCS to Outward Bound

My experience is one that I will remember and value for the rest of my life, and not because of the horrendously large amounts of hot chocolate or flapjack that we consumed.

Read Megan's blog

Lojska's summer at Outward Bound

Our Q&A with Lojska, a young person from Greater Manchester, who took on the Skills for Life Award at Aberdovey in summer 2018.

Read Lojska's blog