The Camp encourages young people to discover and enjoy the countryside.
The beautiful location itself offers an exciting adventure to many of our young visitors. Amidst the fun and freedom, they can learn important skills: teamwork, making their own entertainments, taking responsibility. There’s evidence that a strong connection with nature brings physical and psychological benefits. Yet many young people may be losing that connection.
In the 1950’s, Shropshire policeman Bill Williams and his wife Hetty began giving holidays to boys from Wolverhampton. In 1959, Bill borrowed farmland and equipment and ran the first Camp for about 20 boys. By 1978, there were two camps and 83 boys. In the same year, we also acquired our superb permanent site, apparently remote, yet only a few miles from the picturesque town of Church Stretton. See History (Link) to learn more about our early days.
Photo, right: Bill Williams and Friends
Originally, Bill and his volunteer teams ran the Camps themselves. Now, we let our facilities to recognised child welfare, social and educational groups, many of whom return year after year. But the Camp’s management and operation is still largely run by volunteers. And we’re always in need of more.
The Camp’s traditional style remains very popular. 100% of those completing our annual survey rated our countryside location “good” or “excellent” (with 92% rating it “excellent”). 98% rated their overall experience of the Camp “good” or “excellent”. All other categories – individual facilities, costs, ease of use - were rated “good” or “excellent” by 83-100%.
We’re proud to hold the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service (the “MBE” for Voluntary Groups). It’s a tribute to all those who’ve given their time and skills to the Camp.
More recently one of our long serving members received a Community Services Award 2024 given by Church Stretton Town Council in recognition of his work over many years with young people at the Longmynd Adventure Camp.
