Scouting and other Young Persons Organisations
Our Sir John Lowther County Scout Activity Centre (SJLC) has been purpose-built for residential and non-residential activities and training for both adults and young people. The Centre is owned and run by us, Northamptonshire County Scouts. We have over 20 years of experience working with youth organisations and businesses at our county centre.
We have a wide range of both indoor and outdoor activities, a large function hall, meeting rooms and accommodation that can be hired all year round. Our forty-four-bed dormitory style indoor accommodation comes with full use of the main hall and self-catering commercial kitchen to make residentials at SJLC as comfortable as possible.
Outdoor camping is available year-round on our six campsites, with various styles of site to choose from, we have the perfect spot for everyone.
Our Activities
We have a purpose-built air rifle range that can be used all year round. The range is mainly enclosed but offers a good view from the waiting area for observers and participants waiting for their turn.
Age restriction
Minimum age – Scout age range or 11 years for other youth groups
Children younger than this will not be able to take part in this activity.#
Special Considerations
Air pistol shooting is provided as a developmental activity for older children who have already experienced air rifle shooting. They are generally fired without using a rest, so are more physically challenging than air rifles.
By the nature of their small size, air pistols are potentially more dangerous to other people on the range than air rifles. It is essential that all participants are capable of listening properly to instructions.
Range
Features:5 Fixed shooting positions
- Each position has two distances available (approx 6m and 10m)
- Built-in rifle rests with variable heights
- Sheltered shooting positions
- Sheltered target locations
- Sheltered waiting area
- Full equipment provided with safety goggles
- Available 24 hours a day, lighting installed
- Various target sizes and types available
Instructors
Qualified Instructors are available if booked in advance, or if you have suitably qualified members of your own team we can make the range and equipment available to them. Qualifications will need to be seen in advance of using the range.
Availability
Air Pistol Shooting can be provided all year round, the purpose-built shelter ensures the activity can continue in poor weather or equally provide shade from the sun.
Our activities can be hired individually or as part of a package for any type of event.
For booking enquiries please get in contact. For the current Activities price list please visit our Downloads section.
Permission to shoot
Air pistol shooting is provided by our qualified instructors from our centre team or qualified person(s) with an event team. UK law restricts the use of Air Rifles under the Firearms Act 1968, Section 21, which states any person who has served a term of imprisonment, or its equivalent, for 3 months or more is prohibited from taking part. For this reason, signed forms, provided by Lowther Adventure, are required for each participant for this activity to confirm a participant is not prohibited, adults can sign directly with youth members needing a parent/guardian to sign.
We have a purpose-built air rifle range that can be used all year round. The range is mainly enclosed but offers a good view from the waiting area for observers and participants waiting for their turn.
Age restriction
Minimum age – 6 years old
Children younger than 6 years old will not be able to take part in this activity.
Range
Features:5 Fixed shooting positions
- Each position has two distances available (approx 6m and 10m)
- Built-in rifle rests with variable heights
- Sheltered shooting positions
- Sheltered target locations
- Sheltered waiting area
- Full equipment provided with safety goggles
- Available 24 hours a day, lighting installed
- Various target sizes and types available
Instructors
Qualified Instructors are available if booked in advance, or if you have suitably qualified members of your own team we can make the range and equipment available to them. Qualifications will need to be seen in advance of using the range.
Availability
Air Rifle Shooting can be provided all year round, the purpose-built shelter ensures the activity can continue in poor weather or equally provide shade from the sun.
Our activities can be hired individually or as part of a package for any type of event.
For booking enquiries please get in contact. For the current Activities price list please visit our Downloads section.
Permission to shoot
Air rifle shooting is provided by our qualified instructors from our centre team or qualified person(s) with an event team. UK law restricts the use of Air Rifles under the Firearms Act 1968, Section 21, which states any person who has served a term of imprisonment, or its equivalent, for 3 months or more is prohibited from taking part. For this reason, signed forms, provided by Lowther Adventure, are required for each participant for this activity to confirm a participant is not prohibited, adults can sign directly with youth members needing a parent/guardian to sign.
We have a purpose-built Archery range that is available all year round, weather permitting. The range is mainly enclosed but offers a good view from the waiting area for observers and participants waiting for their turn.
Age restriction
Minimum age – 6 years old
Children younger than 6 years old will not be able to take part in this activity.
Range
Features:
- 5 Fixed position target stands
- Right and left-handed equipment available
- Seating available within waiting area
- Full equipment provided including arm guards
- Available 24 hours a day, lighting installed
- Paper targets and balloon style targets available
Instructors
Qualified Instructors are available if booked in advance, or if you have suitably qualified members of your own team, we can make the range and equipment available to them. Qualifications will need to be seen in advance of using the range.
Availability
Archery can be provided all year round, and the range is open to the elements, rather damp in the rain but lovely in the sunshine.
Our activities can be hired individually or as part of a package for any type of event.
For booking enquiries please get in contact. For the current Activities price list please visit our Downloads section.
Development
The archery range is due improvement works, the features listed above will always be available as a minimum, and extra features may be found at events.
A great activity for younger members or the oldest of kids who want a climbing challenge without extreme height, climb around the wall and never be too far from the ground.
Features:
- Purpose built wall, at the highest point hand grips being 8 feet off the ground (2.4m)
- Woodchipped ground within the bouldering wall area
- Plenty of room for observers to stand within the grounds of the activity
- Safety helmets provided
- Qualified instructors not required, competent adults from your event team can supervise
Availability
Bouldering Wall can be provided all year round, it is open to the elements, rather damp in the rain but lovely in the sunshine.
Our activities can be hired individually or as part of a package for any type of event.
For booking enquiries please get in contact. For the current Activities price list please visit our Downloads section.
This area has been popular for many years. The large fire pit with benches installed around the side provides lots of seating and standing space for small and large events of any type, traditional campfires with singing and dancing, fire lighting, backwoods cooking and fire related activities.
Users are responsible for their own safety when using this area, buckets are provided and a tap located nearby for safety.
The campfire area is booked through the centre office, simply get in contact. There is no additional charge to use this area, it can be booked along with site access, or alongside activity or building use.
Located within the woods this facility is never short of wood, the man made shelter located nearby also provides storage for dry materials in poorer weather conditions.
Build, sit back and enjoy.
This is a band new fun activity at the Centre.
We use the tomahawk throwing area, to modernise a heritage activity. Using five targets and modern catapults, this is a fun activity that is not quite so easy as you might think.
We only use biodegradable ammunition, that you purchase from us in whatever quantities that you wish. We can advise on the number you require based on the size of your group. No other ammunition is authorised for use on the range.
This is as adult led activity, and full operating instructions are provided.
Age restriction
Minimum age – 6 years old
Children younger than 6 years old will not be able to take part in this activity using the normal equipment provided. We can provide less powerful catapults for younger children.
This is as adult led activity and full operating instructions are provided.
Our challenge course is great for all ages, and is currently being updated but still provides a challenge for most age groups. Whether using as time trial, team or an individual task there are obstacles to cater for everyone.
This is activity is available at no cost to customers, simply book your time slot as part of booking the building or grounds.
A man made climbing tower provides a challenge for all age groups over 6 years old. The tower stands on a concrete base with adequate safety matting and flooring, we can run this activity all year round with the weather adding extra challenges.
Please note: In wet weather this can be challenging to motivate young participants
Age restriction:
Minimum age – 6 years old
Children younger than 6 years old will not be able to take part in this activity.
Tower
- 10 Metre high climbing wall
- Run by on site instructors that hold the relevant permits under Scout Association guidelines
- 4 difficulty climbing options, choose which to climb
- Harnesses and safety equipment provided
- Sheltered space available for changing footwear if required
- Manual belay systems, participants can climb or control others whilst climbing (you can take part without climbing)
- Anchor point available for each of the 4 climbing faces
- Various adjustable harness sizes available
- Easy view from outside the fencing area for observers
- Available 24 hours a day, lighting available
- Siren system installed, listen out for friends and colleagues reaching the top
Instructors
This activity is run by on site qualified instructors, there are various permit types so please specify when booking your requirements and ability of the group. Each instructor is qualified according to Scout Association standards.
Availability
Climbing can be provided all year round but can be challenging in wet weather, instructors may postpone timings or re-arrange if the weather causes too much hazard, the wall can be used in the wet and the kit can get wet……. but the participants are not so easy to keep going when wet. Extreme winds are also a consideration.
Our activities can be hired individually or as part of a package for any event type.
For booking enquiries please get in contact. For the current Activities price list please visit our Downloads section.
Start off by collecting us as many natural materials as possible then work as a team to create something amazing. Maybe a castle? A pirate ship? Or even a rocket? Your imagination is the most important tool when building a den.
Our wide selection of lawn games means there’s something for everyone. A Tin-can alley, giant noughts and crosses, giant connect four and hoopla are a few that you might find!
Nerf guns are a great way to practice your aim and master the skill of hitting the target. Our light weight guns and foam pellets make this a safe, fun activity for all ages.
Put your map reading skills to the test to spell out one of the secret code words. There are 3 levels of difficulty so you can choose which one best suit your group. Follow the map through our woodland course and work as a team to find the clues.
Our pedal go-karts are available all year for use on the man made track located in the woodland area of our site.
A number of karts are available to hire, we have two different sized karts available with the seat on every kart adjustable to cater for the height of the user.
Supplied with cycle helmets for participants safety.
Figure of 8 Track
A man made figure of eight track is where the pedal go-karts are used, it is located within the woodland area. The track is exposed to the elements, in the summer it is great fun and tiring, in the winter it just gets muddier and even more fun with the rain and puddles. With and incline an decline on the track, with the options of a figure of 8 circuit, a large oval circuit, or a small oval circuit it can cater for your needs of youth or adult participants.
Availability
This activity can be provided all year round, the outdoor track is great fun in most weather conditions.
Our activities can be hired individually or as part of a package for any event type.
For booking enquiries please get in contact. For the current Activities price list please visit our Downloads section.
Pioneering’s all about using knots and lashes to create a structure using poles and rope. Once you’ve mastered the basics, the only limit is your imagination: you can design and create anything including gadgets and camp structures.
Here is our site map of Sir John Lowther Centre. It covers all the outside areas, activities and the centre itsself.
Slacklining sessions at SJLC are set up in a triangle shape around the trees surrounding the back lawn. During a session, participants are challenged to build up to crossing the slackline without any help from others; the best way to think of it is like a cross between a trampoline and a tight rope.
A great introduction into the sport of archery .Using suction cup arrows, participants learn new skills in a safe environment, working on building strength and coordination while having fun doing something a little out of the ordinary.
Practice and improve your hand-eye coordination with our indoor-safe tomahawk throwing set. The blunted edges on the tomahawks ensure you won’t damage your belongings while fine tuning your aim. The unique lightweight plastic tomahawks and portable bristle target make for hours of safe competition wherever and whenever you want to play.
We have a purpose built Tomahawk throwing area, which is very popular with young people and adults alike. We have a range of different types of throwing tomahawks.
Age restriction:
Minimum age – 6 years old
Children younger than 6 years old will not be able to take part in this activity.
Our man made tunnel system has proved very popular with all youth age groups, it is a woodworking concept thought of by one of the volunteers. It is very popular and is being developed constantly with the addition of new tunnels and obstacles.
Tunnels
The tunnel system offers a different challenge within a dry environment.
Features:
- Built within an enclosed area, not exposed to the weather
- Sheltered area available for changing footwear and safety equipment
- Safety equipment provided with torches/headlamps
- Three tunnel length options available
- Three floors of tunnels, go up and down as well as in various directions
- Self supervised activity, make it as challenging as you want with team games
- Lighting available within the tunnel system communal area
- Emergency lighting installed within the tunnels for the less sure participants
- Various exit points for a quick exit if required
- Slopes, ladders and steps with various obstacles
- Available 24 hours a day, sheltered environment with lighting
Availability
The tunnel system can be used all year round, the enclosed area ensures the activity can continue in poor weather, the activity is accessed from outside areas but contained under suitable shelter. In poor weather conditions it is advised to bring alternative footwear that can be used within the tunnels.
Our activities can be hired individually or as part of a package for any event type.
For booking enquiries please get in contact. For the current Activities price list please visit our Downloads section.
Our Scouting Badges
Explorer sections are able to work towards and achieve an Activity Centre Service Activity Badge, by undertaking the Activity Centre programme.
How to earn your badge
- Work for at least five days (on at least two different occasions) at a
Group, District, County, Area or National Scout Activity Centre or campsite, helping the warden or manager however they need you. - Explain the maintenance needed for essential campsite equipment. Do a demonstration, if possible.
- Explain and, where possible, demonstrate four of the following:
- Make a booking for someone wanting to use the site.
- Show how to restore a camping area after use, including sowing grass.
- Show how you prevent pipes freezing during the winter and what steps to take when pipes burst.
- The importance of having clean toilets.
- Chemicals – what to use and how to use them safely.
- How to unblock a drain and prevent further blockages.
- The need for good site drainage and keeping ditches clear.
- How to dispose of refuse and use an effective recycling system.
Scout sections are able to work towards and achieve an Activity Centre Service Activity Badge, by undertaking the Activity Centre programme.
How to earn your badge
- Help the warden or manager and work for at least five days at a
permanent District, County or National Scout campsite. Alternatively, you can do this work at a similar activity centre. - Explain and show how to use three items of equipment that you’ve used in your work with the activity centre. Show or talk about how you maintain the equipment.
- Choose four of these to explain and if possible demonstrate:
- the use of computers in campsite management
- how to take care of campers’ needs while respecting wildlife
- how to prevent frozen pipes and what to do if an over ground pipe
bursts or leaks - the need for good site drainage and clear ditches
- rubbish disposal and how to recycle materials wherever possible
- the reasons for having clean toilets
- how to unblock a drain
- how to use and maintain equipment for an activity you have become familiar with
- other important tasks that the warden or manager has pointed out.
- Talk about developments and improvements you would like to see at a permanent campsite. It could be the one you worked at or another one you know well.
Our man made 10 metre climbing tower and our bouldering wall provide a perfect opportunity to contribute towards badge requirements of Cubs, Scouts and Explorers.
Our Facilities
Here is our site map of Sir John Lowther Centre. It covers all the outside areas, activities and the centre itsself.
We have two large seminar/meeting rooms which can accommodate formal meetings in board room style seating 16 people; theatre style (24 people); or horseshoe style (18 people).
These two purpose-built rooms are configurable and can each be divided into two smaller rooms, making four seminar rooms in total.
The large rooms are 7.1m x 4.3m, and when divided into two, the smaller rooms seat 8 comfortably. As with the large room, they can be set up in seminar, theatre or horseshoe style. The smaller rooms are 4.3m x 3.6m.
Each room has a white board.
Flip Charts and Audio-visual equipment is available at extra cost. The equipment will be set up prior to your event but we are unable to guarantee technical support at the event.
The Refreshments Bar has a serving hatch to the foyer area. Hot water (urn) and cups are included but there is an extra charge per person for Coffee, Tea, Sugar, Milk and Biscuits. Use is self-service. Please note that unless specifically booked you may not be the only users of the refreshment bar.
We have a small meeting room suitable for four or five people.
This room is great to use as a breakout room.
Each room has a white board.
Flip Charts and Audio-visual equipment is available at extra cost. The equipment will be set up prior to your event but we are unable to guarantee technical support at the event.
The Refreshments Bar has a serving hatch to the foyer area. Hot water (urn) and cups are included but there is an extra charge per person for Coffee, Tea, Sugar, Milk and Biscuits. Use is self-service. Please note that unless specifically booked you may not be the only users of the refreshment bar.
We have a large hall available to use for any function type, sports event, formal occasion, celebrations, large conference or meal, or any event you may be planning.
The function hall is 15.5m by 15.5m in size, with a recommended capacity of the hall using our tables, chairs, plates, and crockery of 150 people (seminar/theatre style).
We have a large kitchen facility with a hot water boiler to keep the hot drinks readily available at your event, along with a large oven, dishwasher, microwave, large fridge, and freezer. There is a serving hatch to thee kitchen. These facilities can be used when booked as part of your event.
Adjoined to the function hall is a storage cupboard with tables, chairs, and equipment that you are able to use.
There are 16 6’x2′ folding tables with 185 stacking chairs.
There is access to a large lawn at the back of the Centre where marquees could be set up.
The facilities include free WiFi. There is also a colour printer/scanner for which charges apply.
The Entrance Foyer can be a conference reception with welcome desk, a café / networking area or a space for informal meeting and greeting. The Entrance Foyer must be booked to gain exclusive use.
The Refreshments Bar has a serving hatch to the foyer area. Hot water (urn) and cups are included but there is an extra charge per person for Coffee, Tea, Sugar, Milk and Biscuits. Use is self-service. Please note that unless specifically booked you may not be the only users.
It is also possible to provide catered Lunches etc – please indicate an interest below and the Centre Team will follow up with you.
Audio-Visual Equipment is available. The equipment will be set up prior to your event but we are unable to guarantee technical support at the event.
Tables and Chairs can be set up. If not specified, the Hall will be clear.
We have a large fully fitted kitchen including crockery. It is a self-catering kitchen, with a hatch through to our function hall.
Our kitchen includes a hot water boiler to keep the hot drinks readily available at your event, along with a large oven, dishwasher, microwave, large fridge, and freezer. Our kitchen can only be booked in conjunction with our hall.
Plates, mugs, glasses and tableware are available for 100 settings.
It is also possible to provide catered breakfasts, lunches and mid-morning/afternoon snacks if required.
Lowther Adventure offers it’s outdoor grounds to hire. Simply get in contact to find out availability.
If you are the only people on site you can use all the areas, in busy periods areas are booked depending on user requirements.
Campsites are available all year round for small or large groups. They can also be used alongside residential facilities. Larger camping events can be catered for outside of winter months.
There are several camping areas available on site, each being a different size with different facilities: Patrol, Uplands, Backpiece and Car park Field.
An outside toilet block is available all year round with a drinking water tap and waste disposal unit nearby.
Our residential facilities are available to hire all year round and are very popular for weekend and weekday events.
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- Main building has 40 beds available
- Additional mattresses available with lots of space to accommodate them
- Fully installed kitchen and function hall included in the price
- Multiple toilet and shower facilities are located by the main residential rooms
- Direct access to outdoor and camping areas through our boot room where you can change your shoes
Scouts, Young Persons Organisations, Schools and Charities Prices and Booking Forms
Risk Assssments, Permission Forma and Other Information
Feedback
Thank you for taking the time to provide feedback on our facilities, we use this information for invoicing and improving facilities at the centre: