Our annual summer camps focus on inclusivity, giving a sense of unity among campers, breaking down barriers and creating long-lasting memories and friendships.
The Brecon Beacons (Bannau Brycheiniog) provides an ideal setting for wild camping, offering a chance to disconnect from the hustle of modern life and embrace the simplicity of nature.
Venturing into the heart of nature’s beauty, the Brecon Beacons offer many things – from breath taking walks to canoeing as well as the warmth of campfires and delicious outdoor cooking.
We arrived after a long bus ride keen to stretch our legs and set up our beds before dinner. After a tasty dinner, we huddled around the campfire roasting marshmallows and singing accompanied by guitars. One by one, we ventured to our bell tents for the night.
The following morning we woke up to a rainy day, pancakes, and coffee. Once we had eaten and were awake we prepared our day bags for the walk. We set out into the drizzly day. I was amazed by the team effort on our walk – from helping each other over difficult terrain to cheering each other on. Later, after lunch and some arts and crafts activities, we ran a cabaret where young people put on performances including singing, ballet, and seeing how many marshmallows they could stuff in their mouth! It was wonderful to see then all have fun and step out of their comfort zones.
The next day we made our way to a nearby canal and set off in a fleet of electric boats, canoes, and cycle boats, a strange kind of boat where you could sit back in the seat pedalling along. On our journey we passed beautiful and tranquil scenery. We eventually made it to a pub where we had a Sunday lunch packed into a big Yorkshire pudding which everyone thoroughly enjoyed. After a well-deserved break we made our way back along the canal to the bus, to have a closing circle and share our favourite parts of the trip.
Here are what some of the other young people on the camp shared about their experience:
“It was the best weekend of my life, I met some amazing people and I conquered my biggest fear and climbed the really steep mountain! I was really proud of myself, all in all I had a great weekend.”
“I really enjoyed spending time with my friends, such a nice atmosphere which brought people together and I loved helping people. The cabaret was great fun!”
““It was my first time camping. I enjoyed everything!”
Thanks to: ActiveImpactUK and Ernest Cook Trust