The Ramblers’ Out There Award is a free programme for young adults across England, Scotland and Wales, offering outdoor skills training, and breaking barriers to getting outdoors.
Why was The Ramblers' Out There Award created?
We identified that younger people didn’t have the confidence to get out walking.
They felt they didn’t have people to go walking with, they didn’t know where they can walk, and they were worried about their safety.
So, the Out There Award was created to help 18–26-year-olds kick-start their journeys into the outdoors, while helping them meet other young walkers and learn skills.
Day one of the two-day course offers basic training in outdoor skills, where you’ll get to discover how to plan and enjoy a new local walk.
Then on day two you will explore greenspaces together on a group walk. Both days are led by qualified staff, who will bring the learning to life.
How did you know what people wanted?
The Out There Award has been co-designed by the Ramblers and participants. As well as wanting to build their confidence in walking outdoors, it was clear that participants wanted the course to be fun, FREE and inclusive and so that’s what we offer!
How do you promote your activities?
You can book (for free!) to take part in The Out There Award via Eventbrite: Out There Award by Ramblers | Eventbrite.
We advertise the events on Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.
Impact of the Ramblers' Out There Award
Over 6 years of running the Out There Award, hundreds of participants have taken part and 100% would recommend it to others.
The Award lives on beyond the two-day training event with all participants receiving a Ramblers starter pack, crammed full of navigation and safety essentials as well as a year of Ramblers membership (currently worth £41).
Heather
“I had a family who was not very active in the outdoors. And gathering the needed kit can be overwhelming and costly. I remember thinking where do I start?
It is invaluable to have an award that educates young people and provides you with the necessities to get started.”
Iqra
“For me, the Out There Award was an amazing step towards learning how to tackle my key anxieties for hiking. What do I need to equip myself with it? Where can I hike? And, importantly, how to do walks safely?
Those anxieties were tackled with learning which equipment and what type is used, becoming part of the young walking group after the award, and learning how to keep myself safe and on track.
Altogether, I feel less scared and I’m now excited to be part of a walking group and to pick up a new, fun hobby.”
Andrew
“Being involved with the Out There Award is the best opportunity to get started with a life in the outdoors.
You get to learn the fundamentals such as your access rights in Scotland and basic navigation skills, which can really build any newcomers’ confidence.
You get a grasp on how to become responsible walker, leave no trace and respect to the natural landscape.
I cannot recommend the programme enough. It’s fun, free, and connects you with all the right people who can help you along every step of the way!”
How did you overcome barriers when launching your initiative?
In order to be offer the Out There Award free of charge to participants, we need the help of generous supporters.
What are your plans moving forwards?
Each year we continue to extend the Out There Award to more locations. This year (2025) there are 41 events taking place in major cities and towns.
Top Tip for groups looking to do something similar:
We've learned a huge amount from young adults along the way. In fact, it simply wouldn't have been the success it's been without their regular input to decisions - including refining how, what and where we teach.
That's led to the award becoming even more local, accessible, inclusive... and fun!
How does The Rambler's Out There Award embody the action area 'suitable'?
Because the course has been co-designed with participants to make sure it meets their needs.