Why Outward Bound?

Level up from NCS

Enjoyed the adventure phase of your National Citizen Service? You ain't seen nothing yet!

At Outward Bound we're about more than just in-grounds activities, or jumping in a canoe for the heck of it. Every one of our adventures includes at least one overnight expedition, where everything has its purpose. So if you end up paddling somewhere or climbing up something you can be sure it's part of a much more meaningful journey.

A different kind of outdoor centre

We believe our most memorable and rewarding days happen out in the wild, away from the comforts and distractions of everyday life and deep in the mountains

Sounds a bit like NCS, right? Sure! But here's the thing. The charm of Outward Bound is not in our familiarity, it's that we'll give you an experience you won't find at a regular outdoor centre.

An experience where friendship comes easy and achievement is hard earned. Where you can explore your talents, but also try your hand at some serious activities.

Like multi-day expeditions fuelled with flapjack, and canoe journeys with a purpose . We'll even teach you the ways of our (in)famous jog and dip.

View courses, dates and venues

Mountains

Experience the unpredictability of the great outdoors in genuine wild locations

Mentors

Gain useful skills for life and knowledge from expert instructors and mentors.

Mates

Go on life-changing journeys, with new friends from across the UK and around the world.

I could see and feel a change for the better

Our son, Jasper, attended an Outward Bound programme at Loch Eli. This story is about the experience we shared as parents before he left and once he returned home.

Read the blog

From NCS to Outward Bound

My Outward Bound 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.