For half a century, Lledr Hall has been a beloved destination for schoolchildren from Greater Manchester, offering unforgettable experiences in one of Britain’s most stunning locations.
Described as a ‘rite of passage’, the outdoor education centre was acquired by Salford Council in 1974. Since then, it has become a cherished part of childhood for many Salford pupils, providing them with the chance to engage in thrilling activities such as climbing, abseiling, and canoeing amidst the breath-taking scenery of Snowdonia National Park.
The historic 19th-century hall has, over the past 50-years, allowed countless young people from Salford to embark on adventures that stay with them for life. The picturesque setting is perfect for introducing kids to a range of outdoor pursuits, including surfing and hiking.
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Recently, Salford Council took to their website and Facebook to invite locals to reminisce about their times at Lledr Hall, which attracted many fond recollections.
Commenting on the Facebook post, one person said: “So many great memories of going there in the ’90s both with Ambrose and SEG (Salford Exploration Group). Slept in the bivvy hut, on the forest floor and in a slate mine. Loved the activities, watching the teachers pouring alcohol from a tea pot (like we didn’t know) and just always have a top laugh!”
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Another person said: “I visited a few times in the late ’80s early ’90s with St James and OLMC (Salford), I absolutely loved every minute.”
Another posted: “For the past 19-years, I have had the absolute pleasure of accompanying lots of groups of Irlam Primary School children to Lledr Hall. It is a right of passage and the children always love it.”
All the staff at Lledr Hall are employed by the council, including teachers with additional specialist qualifications in outdoor activities, as well as staff who provide meals, look after the site, vehicles, and cleaning.
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Councillor Bill Hinds, Executive Support Member for Education, Learning and School Improvement, said: “Lledr Hall is a fantastic place that will hold so many great memories for young people now, their parents, and grandparents. The centre enables children to try new experiences in an unfamiliar environment, working together, supporting each other and developing self-confidence and self-esteem. We want to celebrate everything it has done over the years.
“We’re very proud of the standard of our residential outdoor education centre which, through a recent inspection, continues to hold the highest award for quality outdoor education provision and outdoor learning in the UK. This result is because of the hard work, dedication and commitment of the whole staff team at the centre who strive to give of their best to the children of Salford every day.”
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There will be a small event to celebrate the 50-year milestone on September 17 at Lledr Hall, when council elected members and invited special guests will mark the occasion.
Anyone wanting to share their memories of past trips to Lledr Hall are still invited to do so on the post on Salford Council’s Facebook page, here.
