Testimonials

YMCA Lakeside rafting on Lake Windermere

What makes us a great choice for educational groups?

For more than 60 years we’ve been welcoming over a million young people through our doors. They fall in love with our location. It’s where magical islands and wildlife inspired writers and painters, and the Lake’s great length drew speed-boat acers and record makers.

Here’s why schools love residentials at this magical place:

“The children achieved so much and their self-confidence grew through the power of teamwork and resilience. We cannot wait to return next year so more pupils can experience the magic of Lakeside.”
Louisa Martin, Deputy Headteacher, Trinity St Peter’s Primary School, Formby

“Lakeside was the perfect place to take our 90 Year 12 students. Over the two days they became much more confident, developed new friendship groups and became genuinely more caring for each other. I do not think anywhere more suitable can possibly exist.”
Alan Corner, Head of Sixth Form, Bede Academy, Blyth, Northumberland

“This was our fifth year at Lakeside and every year the students have a fantastic time and want to return when in Year 13! It is superb value for money and I would recommend the YMCA without hesitation.”
Sharon Minta, Bridgewater School, Manchester

“I had a fantastic experience at the YMCA National Centre at Lake Windemere, mainly because of the jam-packed activity schedule. My friends and I were never bored. Each activity was exciting and different and every one of our instructors was really fun.”
Anna Guest (Year 9), Heckmondwike Grammar School

Here’s why parents and children ages 5-15 love day camps

“Thank you to all of the leaders for making this possible! Freddy had another FANTASTIC week with you!”

“My son had a fab time, thank you, it was so well organised!”

About YMCA Lakeside

Latest News & Events

YMCA Lakeside, Schools Challenge Returns for 2025

Schools across the UK are invited to take part in the exciting 2025 Lakeside Schools Challenge at YMCA Lakeside, open […]

Children canoeing activity on Lake Windermere

YMCA Lakeside – outdoor instructors all set for a new season

A new intake of instructors, at one of Europe’s largest outdoor activity centres, Lakeside, Windermere, is being put through their paces ahead of the season starting.

Otters return to Lakeside for the winter

Otters return to Lakeside for the winter

If you need something to warm your heart on a cold winter morning, then what better than this glimpse of otters playing near Lakeside.

The Remembrance Poppy

Do you know how the YMCA has shaped all of our lives?

With more than 58 million members in over 120 countries worldwide, the YMCA is the world’s largest youth movement. But few people know just how much the YMCA has shaped our history.