Nell Bank is an outdoor education centre with a rich history, created in 1977 by the then Lord Mayor of Bradford, Paul Hockney, to celebrate Queen Elizabeth II’s Silver Jubilee. It is dedicated to helping every child connect with nature through exciting, safe, and educational outdoor activity days that inspire learning and inquisitiveness.

Supporting Children and Young People

Nell Bank provides day and residential outdoor learning experiences for children and young people from across the Bradford and Yorkshire region. The centre is especially focused on supporting children from less privileged backgrounds and those with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that every child has the opportunity to benefit from outdoor education.

The centre’s programmes are designed to be inclusive and accessible. They offer a wide range of activities, including curriculum-linked sessions, adventure challenges, and environmental education. These experiences help children to develop confidence, teamwork, and a deeper understanding of the natural world.

Located in a beautiful woodland setting, Nell Bank offers a wide range of activities for school groups, youth organisations, and families. These include:

Curriculum-linked sessions: Activities that support classroom learning in subjects like science, geography, and history.

Adventure and team-building challenges: Opportunities for children to develop confidence, communication, and teamwork skills.

Environmental education: Hands-on experiences with wildlife, woodlands, and waterways to foster a deeper understanding of the environment.

The centre also provides accommodation, making it an ideal venue for residential trips. Nell Bank is committed to making its programmes accessible to children of all backgrounds and abilities, ensuring every child has the chance to discover the joy of the outdoors.