We hold a variety of outdoors events throughout the year.
Rambles
Our Rambles take place at least once a month, usually at weekends, all year round. These walks are open to our 11:17s, with younger groups occasionally joining too.
We head out into the local countryside and beyond, exploring places like Stanwick Lakes and Irchester Country Park, as well as enjoying point-to-point walks along rivers and through villages. Recent adventures have included walking from Stanwick Lakes to Thrapston along the river.
No two rambles are the same. Whether it’s bright sunshine, crisp autumn air, or freezing winter mornings, our young people embrace the outdoors – muddy trails, fresh air, and even the occasional icy path!
These walks are about more than just getting outside. They help build confidence, improve physical and mental wellbeing, and prepare young people for bigger challenges later in the year, including Challenge Week and the Waendel Walk.
Distances vary from a few kilometres up to 10km, allowing everyone to build up their stamina at their own pace. We also plan special walks further afield, including trips to the Derbyshire Dales and the Chiltern Hills.
If your young person would like to get involved, speak to the leader team about joining our Ramblers group.
Waendel Walk
The Waendel Walk is an internationally recognised walking event held every year in early May, attracting people from across the world. At RUSH 2The DEN, it’s one of the highlights of our year.
We take part in three consecutive sponsored walks over the weekend:
Friday – 5km Friendly Walk
We begin with a relaxed 5km walk, open to all ages, including the youngest 5-7s group. It’s a gentle introduction to the weekend and a chance to build excitement. Afterwards, everyone returns to RUSH 2The DEN to eat, rest, and set up camp.
Saturday – 15km or 25km Challenge
Saturday is our biggest day, open to everyone over the age of 8. After a good breakfast, walkers can choose between a 15km or 25km route. Both groups set off together before splitting, travelling through a mix of town, countryside, and riverside paths. Along the way, there are plenty of highlights – from spotting wildlife to cheering on passing lorries!
After a full day of walking, we return to RUSH 2The DEN for a well-earned meal and a relaxed evening.
Sunday – 15km Team Walk
On Sunday, everyone walks together for 15km. This gives less experienced walkers support and encouragement, while allowing others to enjoy a slower pace. There are plenty of fun moments along the way, from park stops to singing together as we head towards the finish. Young people aged 5-7 can join this day if they’re accompanied by their parents.
At the end of the weekend, all participants receive certificates and medals – many of our young people proudly collect them year after year.
Challenge Week
Challenge Week takes place during the second week of the summer holidays and is one of our most ambitious events.
Each year, a group of determined 11-17s take on a five-day challenge of walking and cycling in locations across the UK. Previous challenges have included walking the Northumberland Coastal Path and exploring routes along the east coast.
This year, we are taking on our biggest challenge yet – walking the entire Isle of Wight, covering 100km.
Young people help fundraise towards the cost, supported by local businesses and the community. This gives them a real sense of ownership and achievement before the challenge even begins.
Challenge Week is designed to push young people outside their comfort zone – but never beyond their limits. It builds resilience, confidence, teamwork, and independence.
For many, it’s also full of firsts:
- First time staying away from home
- First train or ferry journey
- Learning new skills like cycling or swimming
- Even their first “wild wee”!
It’s not all hard work. We make sure there’s time to relax and enjoy new experiences too, from visiting places like Lindisfarne to spending time at the beach.
Applications for the next year open shortly after we return, so there’s always something to aim for.
September Camp
Every September, we head off for our annual September Camp, running from Friday evening through to Sunday afternoon.
Open to all youth groups from 5-7s to 11-17s, this weekend is all about fun, friendship, and new experiences. We now use a site with exclusive access, giving us plenty of space to make it our own.
There’s something for everyone, including:
- Wide games and outdoor activities
- Crafts in the mess tent
- Kite flying
- Campfire songs and s’mores
For some young people, this is their very first camping trip, and we work hard to make it a positive and memorable experience for everyone.
We also encourage independence, with young people helping to prepare their own lunches and support with tidying up after meals.
Whatever the weather, camp goes ahead! We’ve had sunshine (with paddling pools), heavy rain (with singalongs in the tent), and even freezing temperatures – where we’ve gone the extra mile to keep everyone warm and comfortable.
Setting up camp is a big job, with leaders starting early on the Friday to put up tents and our large mess marquee. We always welcome extra help from volunteers where possible.
If your young person would like to join us, keep an eye out for booking details released through our youth clubs in the months leading up to the event.