Timings:

• These are estimated and could change due to factors that could impact the day-to-day itinerary e.g. weather, punctuality of camp participants, mechanicals etc…

Accommodation:

• One night full board included:
  • Breakfast: Day 2
  • Lunch: Day 1 and Day 2
  • Evening meal: Day 1
• To book extra nights, either side of the trip scroll down for full details

Day 1: Arrive, Ride, & Navigate!

Morning: Getting Started & Hitting the Trails

• 09:30 – Arrival & Check-in: A warm welcome at the Hurtwood Hideout! Drop off overnight bags and get settled
• 09:30 – 10:00 – Welcome Meet & Greet: Parents and children meet the Marmalade MTB and Hurtwood Hideout teams, enjoy a light snack, and get a quick intro briefing
• 10:00 – 10:15 – MTB Briefing & Bike Checks: Time to get serious (but still fun!). Essential bike checks and handovers for any hired bikes
• 10:15 – 11:00 – Rider Review & Core Skills: Fine-tune those riding skills out on the trails
• 11:00 – 13:00 – Guided Ride: Holmbury Hill! Head out for an exhilarating guided ride across the fantastic Holmbury Hill

Afternoon & Evening: Outdoor Skills & Campfire Fun

• • 13:30 – 14:15 – Lunch & Refreshments: Refuel with a delicious lunch back at the Hideout café
  • 14:15 – 16:15 – Outdoor Skills (Part 1): An interactive session on basic navigation, route planning, and contingency planning – super useful skills for any outdoor adventure!
  • 16:15 – 17:00 – Settle In: Pitch tents or get comfy in your rooms at the Hideout
  • 17:00 – 18:00 – Free Time: Relax, unwind, or enjoy some chill-out time before dinner
  • 18:00 – 19:30 – Evening Meal: Tuck into a tasty communal BBQ or campfire meal – proper camp vibes!
  • 19:30 – 21:00 – Evening Entertainment: Fun games and captivating campfire stories
  • 21:00 – 22:00 – Wind Down: Free time before lights out
  • 22:00 onwards – Lights Out!

Day 2: Repairs, Riding, & Ready for Anything!

Morning: Essential skills & more riding

• 08:30 – 09:00 – Breakfast: Start the day with a hearty breakfast, either from the café or around the campfire.
• 09:00 – 10:30 – Trailside repairs & essential kit: Get hands-on with an interactive session learning basic trailside repairs and what essential gear to pack for your rides.
• 10:30 – 10:45 – Comfort and refreshment break.
• 10:45 – 13:30 – Outdoor adventure skills (pt. 2) & Q&A: A concluding session on basic bike maintenance and a Q&A to recap all the amazing skills learned over the two days.

Afternoon: Wrap up & farewell

• 13:30 – 14:15 – Lunch & refreshments: Enjoy a final delicious lunch back at the Hideout café.
• 14.15 – 14.30 – Bike & kit checks: Quick checks to ensure everyone’s ready for the trails.
• 14:30 – 16:30 – Guided ride & skills practice: Another fantastic guided ride across Holmbury Hill, incorporating practical staged trailside repairs and navigational exercises using OS maps and recommended apps.
• 16:30 – 16:45 – Home time: Participants head home, full of new skills, great memories, and a huge sense of accomplishment!

Extra nights

If you wish to stay as a family for extra nights before or after your trip, please book directly with the The Hurtwood Hideout.

If you wish to contact Josh or Matt directly, then send them an email to discuss your requirements, subject to availability.
hurtwoodhideout@gmail.com | 01306 730777

This summer camp will be hosted at the fantastic Hurtwood Hideout on Holmbury Hill. This newly re-opened outdoor enthusiasts woodland retreat offers:

• Free parking: Convenient and ample space for drop-off and pick-up
• On-site cafe: A tranquil woodland setting for parents and siblings to relax with a hot or cold drink and snack
• Toilets: Readily available facilities
• Bike shop: A convenient place for any last-minute needs or inspiration!

Extra nights

If you wish to stay as a family for extra nights before or after your trip, please book directly with the The Hurtwood Hideout.

If you wish to contact Josh or Matt directly, then send them an email to discuss your requirements, subject to availability.
hurtwoodhideout@gmail.com | 01306 730777

Equipment, kit and clothing

Essentials:

• Suitable mountain bike in good working order (bikes can be hired in advance)
• Helmet (in good condition, with no damage)
• Overnight personal items
• Personal choice of drink and ride snacks
• Clothing and shoes appropriate for the forecasted weather and the proposed camp activities:
  • Cycling and the outdoor interactive workshops
  • Rest and relaxtion around the camping area and Hideout

Recommended:

• Gloves
• Glasses, sunglasses or eyeshields
• Backpack
• Spare inner tube
• Cycling specific multi-tool
• Puncture repair kit and bicycle pump
• Padded cycling shorts for comfort
• Sunscreen

What’s not included

• Bike hire
• Camping kit if they are camping
• Personal clothing & equipment
• Refreshments during the activities
• Personal travel or accident Insurance
• Towels
  • These can be hired from the Hideout for £5 per towel

Any multi-day trip calls for thorough preparation. The woodland trails of the Surrey Hills offer a mix of terrain and our bikes and kit need to be up for the challenge!

Their bike

• Ensure your bike is fully serviced by a competent mechanic a few weeks before the camp. This service should include:
  • New cables
  • Brake pads
  • Every nut and bolt checked and tightened to the correct torque
  • A thorough check of your suspension pivot bearings, tyres and wheels
• Tyres are very important. They need to be in good condition. The terrain on the Surrey Hills is predominantly rooty and rocky, so strong rugged tyres are highly recommended.
  • Tyre choice should firmly focus on grip and durability, rather than speed or light weight.
  •  which may not be tough enough for the sharp flint on certain sections of the South Downs.
  • If your child’s bike is running tubeless tyres, ensure your sealant levels are checked and topped up before the ride.
  • From our experience we do not recommend slime filled inner-tubes or anti-puncture tyre liners. They often create more problems than they solve.

• A spare rear mech hanger is essential. These parts are designed to break or bend in the event of an impact that threatens your precious rear derailleur. With a spare hanger on hand, we can hopefully have you riding again soon. Otherwise, your ride may end prematurely.
  • Rear mech hangers generally look similar to the picture below, but are very specific to your particular model of bike. These can be sourced via the bike shop you purchased your bike from, or online component suppliers such as Gear Mech Hanger who have the UK’s most comprehensive range.

Essentials for their trail pack:

• 1 inner tube
• Spare mech hanger (see above)
• 2 sets of spare brake pads – specific to the model of brake on your bike
• Spare ‘PowerLink’ or ‘Quick Link’ for your chain (8, 9, 10, 11 or 12 speed)
• Spare layers and clothing for the forecasted weather
• Sunscreen
• Insect repellant
• Personal medication such as inhalers and epipens

We’re thrilled your child is joining us for an unforgettable adventure at the Hurtwood Hideout! This page provides essential information to ensure peace of mind regarding their safety, well-being, and the practicalities of their stay.

General Camp Information

Q1: When are meals served, and what kind of food will be provided? A: A hearty lunch and dinner are provided on Day 1, followed by breakfast and lunch on Day 2. These will be served at set times, as outlined in the “Camp Details” tab itinerary, either from the Hideout café or as a communal campfire meal. Snacks and drinks will also be available at designated times. We will cater for allergies and dietary requirements, so please ensure you’ve provided us with all necessary information on your booking form.

Q2: Who will be supervising my child overnight? A: Your children will be looked after by the experienced Residential Manager and their team from the Hurtwood Hideout, who are on-site throughout the overnight stay. Our Marmalade MTB guides will also be present and supervising during all scheduled activities. Both Hurtwood Hideout and Marmalade MTB staff undergo enhanced DBS checks and receive safeguarding training. We ensure appropriate staff-to-child ratios and have an overnight rota for constant supervision.

Q3: How is supervision handled during evening activities and campfires? A: All evening activities, including any campfires, will be fully supervised by the Hurtwood Hideout Residential staff, ensuring a safe and fun environment for everyone. Any campfires will be supervised, with fire extinguishers on hand.

Q4: What are the “lights out” arrangements? A: The itinerary includes designated free time before bed, with a “lights out” time clearly set at 22:00 (10 PM) to ensure all campers get a good night’s sleep, ready for the next day’s adventures.

Q5: What happens if my child has an issue in the middle of the night? A: The Hurtwood Hideout Residential Manager and staff are on-site throughout the night. Should any child require assistance, a staff member will be available to help immediately. Clear instructions on who to approach and how to seek assistance will be provided upon arrival. Our staff conduct night patrols in both hostel rooms and the camping area.

Q6: What are the general housekeeping rules for the camp? A: Yes, we’ll have simple, clear ground rules to ensure everyone has a comfortable and enjoyable stay. These will cover keeping shared areas tidy, respecting other campers and staff, and general behaviour guidelines both inside the Hideout rooms and around the camping grounds. A brief overview will be given during the welcome briefing. We promote a code of conduct emphasising respect and positive behaviour.

Accommodation & Facilities

Q7: How are sleeping arrangements managed in shared rooms/tents? A: We prioritize your child’s safety and comfort. All sleeping arrangements are single-sex, meaning boys and girls will sleep in separate rooms or tents. We ensure appropriate rooming, and no child will be permitted to camp alone in a tent. Any single campers will be moved indoors or paired appropriately with another child of the same gender.

Q8: How will bathroom and washroom facilities be managed? A: To ensure privacy and safety, specific bathroom, wash, and shower facilities will be designated for exclusive use by the children during set times. Where feasible, these will be single-sex facilities, clearly signposted. These designated rooms will be closed to the general public during set times (e.g., mornings [07:00 – 09:00] and evenings [19:00 – 21:00]). Notices will be displayed to inform other hostel guests of these reserved times, and Hideout staff will monitor and enforce this exclusive access.

Q9: What security measures are in place for the Hideout and camping grounds overnight? A: The Hideout doors and windows are secure. For the camping grounds, the perimeter is controlled, and gates will be locked during night-time hours. Staff conduct regular patrols and maintain patrol logs to ensure security and prevent unauthorised access or absconding.

Health, Safety & Well-being

Q10: What is your policy on mobile phone and device use? A: We encourage campers to engage fully in the camp experience. While we understand the need for contact, we will have designated times and areas for mobile device use to ensure it doesn’t detract from activities or socialising. We may implement overnight collection of phones and cameras to prevent misuse like bullying or safeguarding breaches. Further details will be provided at check-in.

Q11: How is discipline handled at the camp? A: We promote a positive and respectful environment. Our staff are experienced in working with young people and will address any behavioural issues calmly and constructively, following our clear camp guidelines and code of conduct. We will communicate with parents if significant concerns arise. We have a clear consequences system for inappropriate language or behaviour.

Q12: Do you encourage self-reliance and self-care? A: Absolutely! A key aim of our camp, particularly through the “life skills” workshops, is to foster independence and self-reliance. We encourage campers to take responsibility for their belongings, personal hygiene, and to participate in looking after the camp environment. Our staff are there to support and guide them, empowering them to grow in confidence in these areas.

Q13: What happens in a medical emergency or if my child gets injured? A: We will have trained first aiders on duty at all times with fully stocked first aid kits. We collect consent forms from you, which include medical information and emergency contacts, to ensure prompt and appropriate care. All accidents and near misses are recorded.

Q14: How do you manage risks during outdoor activities and around the camp? A: We conduct regular risk assessments for all areas and activities. Before any outdoor activities or campfires, children will receive safety briefings and will be under constant supervision. Paths are kept clear, and children will be advised to use torches at night where lighting may be poor to prevent slips, trips, and falls. In the event of a power outage, torches will be issued and backup lighting is available.

Q15: What if my child experiences homesickness or emotional distress? A: We will provide a quiet space for children who need it and, where necessary, will follow procedures for contacting home to discuss concerns.

Q16: How do you prevent children from wandering off or getting lost? A: We implement strict controls including regular headcounts. Clear boundaries for safe zones will be established with a boundary tour upon arrival, and coloured signs will mark safe and no-go zones. Staff will also be vigilant near public paths.

Q17: What is your policy on visitors and who can pick up my child? A: All visitors to the Hideout, including delivery drivers, must sign in at reception, and staff are always aware of who is on the premises. For drop-off and pick-up, we have a supervised zone, will conduct ID checks for anyone collecting a child, and maintain logs of all arrivals and departures. Parents should notify us in advance of any late arrivals or early leavers.

Q18: What should my child bring in terms of clothing and footwear? A: We will provide a detailed kit list for appropriate clothing and footwear, suitable for all weather conditions and activities. We will also conduct checks upon arrival to ensure children are suitably equipped to prevent issues like hypothermia or blisters.

Q19: What is the plan for severe weather or other emergencies? A: We monitor weather conditions closely and have a designated shelter plan for adverse weather. In the event of any emergency, we have a comprehensive emergency evacuation plan, which includes regular practice drills and clearly designated meeting points. This plan is shared with all staff and group leaders.

The areas we visit on our mountain biking trips are special, so we must all help to protect these landscapes. As part of your preparation for your trip with us this year, check out this advice from the UK Government and Natural Resources Wales.

There has been a significant increase in the number of non-native tree pests and diseases being introduced to the United Kingdom since the early 2000s. This demonstrates the need for us all to take action to provide our trees, woods and forests with greater protection. By implementing appropriate biosecurity measures, we can significantly reduce the risk of introducing and spreading tree pests and diseases.

What you can do:

• Think Feet:
  • Arrive in the area with clean footwear, cycling and non-cycling.
  • Before you leave: clean mud, organic material and water off your shoes.
• Think Wheels:
  • Ensure your bike and kit is clean before you arrive in the area and before you leave to go home.
  • Drive and park your vehicle only on hard-standing surfaces such as tarmac where possible when visiting outdoor areas such as woodlands, parks or gardens.
• Think Future:
  • Keeping it clean really is that simple. You may be wondering what real difference you can actually make – but if we all take small steps together now, we’re taking big steps toward keeping the UK’s woodlands and countryside beautiful for generations to come.