The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has a significant connection to the Lake District, with various organizations offering expeditions and residential programs in the area. From the history behind this connection to the landmarks and attractions associated with the award, the Lake District has become a hub for personal development, challenge, and achievement for young people.
History of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Connection to the Lake District
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award was established in 1956 by Prince Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, to provide young people with opportunities for personal development, challenge, and achievement. The Lake District’s natural beauty and diverse landscapes have made it an ideal location for these activities, with the award scheme growing to include expeditions and residential programs across the region.
Landmarks and Attractions Associated with the Duke of Edinburgh
Several organizations offer Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expeditions and residentials in the Lake District, including:
- The Adventure Element: Provides DofE Gold Practice and Qualifying Expeditions in the Lake District and Peak District, with programs running from April to October 2024. These expeditions include activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and rock climbing.
- Cumbria Outdoors: Offers multi-activity residential programs, including canoeing, kayaking, ghyll scrambling, and rock climbing in the Lake District.
- Sam Sykes Ltd.: A family-run business with 50 years of experience in organizing and leading quality Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expeditions at all levels for schools, groups, and individuals. They operate nationwide from their base in the Lake District.
Impact on Conservation and Preservation
The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expeditions and residentials in the Lake District contribute to the conservation and preservation of the area in several ways:
- Environmental Awareness: Participants are encouraged to respect and appreciate the natural environment, promoting a sense of responsibility and stewardship for the area.
- Sustainable Tourism: By supporting local businesses and using environmentally friendly practices, these programs help maintain the economic and environmental balance of the Lake District.
- Community Engagement: The award scheme fosters community engagement and cooperation, as participants work together to complete their expeditions and residentials, promoting social cohesion and mutual respect.
Cost and Timings
The cost of Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expeditions and residentials in the Lake District varies depending on the provider and the specific program. Here are some examples:
| Provider | Cost |
|---|---|
| The Adventure Element | £330 inc. VAT per person for DofE Gold Practice and Qualifying Expeditions |
| Cumbria Outdoors | Prices vary depending on the specific program and activities |
| Sam Sykes Ltd. | Prices are not explicitly stated but are likely to vary depending on the program and services provided |
Directory and Contact Information
Here is a directory of the organizations mentioned:
- The Adventure Element: www.TheAdventureElement.co.uk, [email protected], 01768 800212.
- Cumbria Outdoors: www.cumbriaoutdoors.org.
- Sam Sykes Ltd.: www.samsykesltd.co.uk, 01539 443157.
Hotel Accommodation
For those looking for accommodation in the Lake District, the Duke of Edinburgh Hotel in Barrow in Furness offers luxury en-suite rooms, a cask ale bar, and a subterranean restaurant. The hotel is ideally located in the town center, with private parking and a short walk from the train station.
References:
– The Adventure Element – DofE Gold Practice and Qualifying Expeditions in the Lake District and Peak District, April to October 2024
– Cumbria Outdoors – DofE Expeditions and Residentials
– The Adventure Element – DofE Open Gold Practice Expedition Walking
– Sam Sykes Ltd.
– Duke of Edinburgh Hotel