Groups are especially welcome here at Studfold.

We take pride in sharing the Nidderdale experience with a wide range of groups, and because it's a place to Explore, Discover and Learn, we especially welcome visits from schools and groups. For further information on group bookings and availability get in touch.

Studfold Explore Discover and Learn has been designed to help support the new Primary National Curriculum and Early Years Foundation Stage.

Studfold is all about allowing young children to value and respect the environment that surrounds them.

The nature trail encourages children to become successful learners through a diverse range of interactive and fun activities. There are many opportunities for individual or group work which promote confidence and self worth.

A visit to Studfold at the start or end of a module of work linked to the environment or countryside is an exciting way to teach many essential key skills; there is ample opportunity for many cross curricular links; and the diverse range of activities allows breadth of learning and curriculum progression.

Pre-school groups will find Studfold is an exciting way to cover a number of areas in the Early Years Foundation Stage Framework:-

The Explore Discover and Learn Trail is a perfect outdoor environment (3.3) which encourages communication and learning (1.1). By exploration and investigation children gain a knowledge and understanding of the outdoor world - however all areas of learning and development (4.4) could be covered on the trail e.g. Story Telling Chair – Communication, language and literacy. Positive interactions can be made between parents (2.2) families and children (1.2 / 2.1 / 2.3). Children learn through active learning (4.2) and experience, in an outdoor environment (4.1). The activities give mental stimulation, encourage creative and critical thinking (4.3) and promote physical exercise outdoors (1.4).

Studfold supports the many great environmental initiatives such as ‘Eco-schools’ – ‘The Great Plant Hunt’ – and the Plantlife ‘Bee Scene’ project to name but a few!

The trails interactive and fun information points include native mammals, a viewing point, birds, wild flowers/grasses, trees, geology, mini-beasts and woodland. There is an interactive Victorian barn and a giant story telling chair. To ‘spark off’ the younger minds -three characters; rabbit the explorer, mole the discoverer, and owl the learner, will help lead you round the trail. A fantastic picnic and play area. As well as clues, giant footprints and secret boxes... The list goes on!

We have designed a number of printable activity sheets to extend your Studfold experience. Risk Assessments and Accessibility Statements available on request.

An Activity Centre and Camping Site are available for residential visits too.... with great ideas for bookable outdoor activities to make a really memorable visit to Nidderdale.

Studfold holds two Open days early in the season for all primary school teachers and group leaders. See calendar of events. Please pre-book. Information pack and refreshments available. Bring along the family too!

Prices (excluding VAT)

Pre-school child £3, one adult free per three children. Extra adults £4.

Primary school children £3, one adult free per six children. Extra adults £4.

Ideal group size would be 30-45, divided into smaller groups of 6-8 on arrival. Please ring to discuss details. 

Interested in a group visit? Speak to Anne Challis, one of the designers of the trail and a practising teacher. Call 01423 755228.

Day trips and visits for primary school groups, guide and scout groups.