We welcome the use of Surrey's countryside by school and early years groups and understand the value of outdoor education. Please make us aware in advance of your visit so we can ensure the countryside is accessible to all users.
Basingstoke Canal
Our team at the Basingstoke Canal regularly welcome school and community groups and they offer a selection of self-led activities which include:
Boat trip
Take your group on Rosebud a 12 seater narrow boat for an adventure on the canal.
- Cost: £4 per child (Teachers and accompanying adults go free)
Nature walk
Take your group for a stroll along the canal towpath looking our for and identifying the many birds, animals, insects and plants.
Minibeast hunt
Take your group mini beast hunting around the Canal Visitor Centre. Spotting sheets provided.
- Cost: £10.00
Pond dipping
Take your group pond dipping and discover the wonderful species that call the canal home.
- Cost: £30.00 for a group or £7 per individual
For all school and group enquiries please contact the Visitor Services Officer at canal.centre@surreycc.gov.uk or on 01252 370073.
Contact us
If you would like to organise a visit to one of our other countryside sites, please contact us in the following way:
State funded educational establishments: If you are a state funded school or early years facility, we require you to book online via the Evolve portal (link). You will also be required to supply a site-specific Risk Assessment.
Privately funded educational establishments: If you are a privately funded school or early years facility, we require you to contact us via email: countryside.bookings@surreycc.gov.uk with further details on your proposed visit. You will also be required to supply a copy of your Public Liability Insurance for £10 million and a site-specific Risk Assessment.
Parking
Many of our countryside sites have limited parking facilities. Please notify us of drop off and collection points and times, as our sites can become congested. If you would like to park a minibus or coach for the duration of your visit, please contact: countryside.bookings@surreycc.gov.uk for further details.
Additional Information
We would recommend a pre-visit so you can familiarise yourself with the location, facilities, and safety considerations.