Residential
To help you plan an exciting trip away, our county residential team are researching great venues local to Hertfordshire.
Whether you are looking for a wild adventure, a trip packed with outdoor activities or comfortable, well-equipped indoor accommodation, you can learn more about each of the featured places by clicking the images below.
Have you ever wanted to know what animals get up to at night? Now’s your chance with Nature Nights, camping at the Zoo.
Pitch your tent on the main lawn and spend the evening discovering what both native and exotic animals get up to at night. Girls can test their knowledge of animals before going on a torchlit expedition around the Zoo to see what they can find and who is still awake!
Included in the nature nights experience is a torchlight expedition around the Zoo, unique access to the Zoo in the morning before it opens, free entry to Whipsnade Zoo (on the day of departure), a breakfast roll and drink and a flat pitch for the tents.
Private bookings can be made for groups of 20-60 individuals.
For more information, e-mail [email protected]
Clip ‘n’ Climb
Is there any better way to introduce your girls to climbing than at a sleepover at Clip ’n Climb, Cambridge? Perfect for girls from aged 7 years and over, this venue has staff who are trained in working with young people of all climbing abilities, as well as those with additional needs.
Young members will sleep within the climbing area, and there is a separate sleeping area for adults. Staff will remain on site overnight, and sleep upstairs, providing additional first aid and fire-marshal cover if required.
Full catering is provided, and all dietary needs can be met.
Groups of up to 36 girls can attend a sleepover at this venue. Sleepovers can only take place on Friday nights.
Unit 34, Clifton Road Industrial Estate, Clifton Rd, Cambridge CB1 7EB. https://www.clipnclimbcambridge.co.uk/groups/youth-group-sleepovers
The Hive in the Forest is nestled within 7 acres of blissful woodland and buzzing habitats in Epping Forest. Having welcomed schools, families and community groups since 1967, this venue has now been approved for Girlguiding residential events.
When booking to stay at the centre, you have exclusive use of all residential facilities, including wooden camping pods and a multifunctional lodge building. Catered and self-catered options are available.
Girls will learn about the natural environment first hand by finding out about positive actions that tackle our climate and ecological emergencies. They will be equipped with age-appropriate knowledge and experiences; helping you to make choices to protect the natural world.
The Hive, Church Road, High Beach, Loughton, IG10 4AJ
Whipsnade Zoo's indoor soft play space has been approved for Girlguiding residentials. Girls sleep inside their softplay area, learn about some of the animals that live at the zoo and have a tour of the zoo in the morning before it opens to the public.
Debbie Carroll visited with the 2nd and 10th Harpenden Brownies. She said:
“The Brownies really enjoyed sleeping in Hullabazoo. In the morning, we had fun watching the animals wake up before the zoo opened. Our favourite parts included watching the baby giraffe zoomies! We will definitely go again!”
Ringo's Rangers sleepovers at Shepreth Wildlife Park are suitable for Rainbows, Brownies and Guides. Girls will have an evening guided tour of the park, early morning exclusive access to the grounds, an activity session, badge session and free time to explore.
Marion Kett from 2nd Royston Brownies said:
“The sessions were informal and great fun and included a night & early morning walk. We slept in the Education Centre comprising large hall area, toilets and a classroom. Staff are all local and easy to contact should you need them. Our Brownies loved it and we'd certainly go again!”
Alternatively, if you are simply looking for a campsite or indoor accommodation check out our nights away page
If you are organising/planning a residential you can find guidance and residential event notification (REN) forms on the Girlguiding UK's Going on residentials webpage.
If you require support with planning a residential you can contact the county residential team on [email protected].