Skern Lodge - Bideford

Holly DW

Absolutely incredible is the only way I can describe it. Skern Lodge is a fabulous family friendly place to go, I was here for 5 days and there was never a dull moment.

SIGHTS: The views are beautiful with the beach is just a few steps away, it is lovely for a walk to clear your head and is overall quite a quiet, relaxed place.
Westwood Ho! is a beautiful town that is only a few minutes drive from Skern Lodge and that is equally gorgeous with busy life to look at, arcades, shops and many more. The best part is all of these are on the doorstep of Skern!

ROOMS: Accommodation was immaculate, every inch was completely clean and it had everything you would need: storage, mirrors, nice bathrooms, good bedding ect. Most importantly, the mattresses are very very comfortable. They keep all of their campus unbelievably clean and hold it to really high standards. They also make it clear from the start that they want visitors to respect Skern too, which I think is a very important element to why Skern is such a great place.

STAFF: The staff are even more fabulous. The instructors are so supportive and won’t push you to do anything you aren’t comfortable with but still will encourage you. I would especially like to mention Henry who looked after us this week, his communication skills were top tier and his humour even better. He instantly made us feel welcome and comfortable, always asking how we were and engaging in conversations between students, treating us as equals and not less. I would also like to thank the kitchen staff for making the delicious food. They had impeccable awareness to other people’s dietary needs. An example being my friend who is gluten free: she was tended to brilliantly and I can say that Sam, the head chef, was notably passionate about making food that people love and tending to others needs. ‘They always prioritise the dietary requirements without making people feel separate or different to others’ says my friend.

ACTIVITIES: The activities were excellent, ranging from team building to individual challenges. Some that stood out to me were rafting, high ropes, climbing and abseiling, assault course and many more. Never once did I feel judged for my capability on any of them and instead I achieved things that I didn’t know I was able to do. I’ve even made new friends and bonded with people that I wouldn’t have prior because of the way activities were organised.

It is honestly an essential experience and I highly recommend it.

Daniel Owens

I have just returned from a three day visit to Skern Lodge as part of a leadership course provided by Skern training and skills.

It is fair to say that there was an element of apprehension and uncertainty ahead of going, as this sort of stuff is massively outside of my usual comfort zone.

We were there as part of a large group, sharing the site with other groups.

From the very get go Andy and the team were brilliantly supportive, and lived by the mantra of “challenge by choice”. My apprehension was certainly misplaced, as they were all incredibly supportive throughout.

A fantastic few days using all of the facilities that were available, with a huge amount to reflect on as I return to my day job. Brilliant to spend time with the wider team in a fun and gorgeous part of the world.

The accommodation is basic, but we were also tired every evening that it didn’t really matter. The food was fantastic, and the team were always happy to help.

A huge thank you to Andy, Cam, Russ, Archie and the rest of the brilliant onsite team!

Paula Nathan

My foster child was invited here for a pool party . Great experience and staff are lovely.

Jason Luckhurst

I loved it when I went decades ago and did 5 full days of various activities.my daughter has just done 4 half days full of activities and she loved it. Highly recommend to anyone who wants to try adventurous activities

Sarah Frost

Amazing centre that are always happy to help. Staff are fantastic. Showers hot, beds comfortable and the food is incredible. Just what you need when you have to take 61 children on a residential in November!

Tatti McNally

Excellent camping facilities. More info on recycling waste please.

Mandy Churchill

Stayed in a pod..had it's own toilet and sink,also bedding.loved it.. helpful staff

Rosaaa “RosaLuvsU” K

I loved it so much! it took long to go there but Prue and the rest of the members are so kind and I miss you all alreadyy but it’s nice to be home ❤️ (loved the activities especially the fashion runway ? ) ❤️