Centre Information

Simonsbath House Outdoor Centre is situated in the heart of Exmoor being part of the oldest house in Exmoor Forest; the property dates back to 1654 and still retains many of its original features (brief history attached). The main house is set in 3 acres of land where many of the centre activities take place and adjoins Exmoor National Park overlooking the Barle Valley, a unique acidic upland river with SSSI designation and immediate access to acres of beautiful moorland countryside. John Knights mansion has been converted to accommodate the Outdoor Centre and the original section of the house is now a Country Hotel. As well as providing an excellent location for habitat investigation, the centre offers considerable learning opportunities in all aspects of the curriculum, with special emphasis on numeracy and literacy and a broad range of outdoor and adventurous activities all of which deliver aspects of Citizenship and PSHE.

The Centre is within 7 miles of Watersmeet on the East Lyn River and picturesque Lynmouth with the cliff side railway connecting the town to Lynton. A short coach ride would take you to the wide sandy beaches and dunes of Croyde bay, Woolacombe Sands and Braunton Burrows or the busy market town of Barnstaple. Further information on the local sites of interest & attractions can be found enclosed.
The centre offers en-suite dormitory accommodation for up to 34 students and their leaders, The ground floor has 3 bedrooms one accommodating 8 students, 2 bedrooms accommodating 4 students,1 single staff bedroom, 1 twin en-suite staff bedroom, a staff lounge, kitchen and bathroom. The first floor has 1 bedrooms each accommodating 8 students, 1 bedroom accommodating 6 students and one bedroom accommodating 4 students plus 2 twin en-suite staff bedrooms. All bedding is provided and bedrooms are heated and fully carpeted. Groups are also offered the opportunity to camp in the grounds in tents provided by the centre. The centre offers a range of indoor facilities including a large dining room and common room containing a television, videos and various board games for evening recreation, a computer work room, a fully equipped classroom containing a large selection of reference books and a comprehensive collection of local maps. The centre also has a small souvenir shop and washing and drying facilities.

Our chef savours his reputation for good food, providing a wide and varied menu using local produce catering for both vegetarians and those on special diets, please see enclosed sample menu.

The safety and welfare of all our residents is our paramount concern. All activities are run by qualified and experienced staff and the centre holds £5 million public liability insurance. To ensure the safety and security of our residents the dormitory block has locks on all exterior doors and windows and an alarm system. All staff hold a first aid qualification and there is a member of staff qualified to First Aid at Work standard in residence on site at all times. All Centre staff wear identification badges. The Centre Health and Safety Policy, Code of Practice and Risk Assessments are available on request and can be view on our web page www.SHOC.info. SHOC meets all criteria required by LEA's to ensure the safety and well being of pupils visiting the centre.

To arrange a residential visit complete the attached booking form or alternatively contact the centre on 01643 831382, Fax 01643 831557 or e-mail enquiries@shoc.info for further information.

_