Show Info

About the Event

What are the Show opening times?

The show will be open 9am – 5pm on both Saturday 23rd March and Sunday 24th March 2024.

Is there a cloakroom available?

The NEC has a cloakroom before you enter the Show.

Do I need to book onto the features at the show?

Some of the features at the show will require you to book a session in advance, these links can be found on the individual feature pages on the What's on page on the website. If there is not a link to book on the page you will be able to walk up on the day to take part in the feature.

Some of the features with bookable sessions may currently be fully booked but are likely to have walk up sessions available on the day.

Which hall are you in?

We are in Hall 2. You can see an NEC map here.

Do I need to book to see a speaker?

No, all speaker talks and panels are first come, first served.

How do I find out about exhibiting at the show?

You can speak directly to our Event Director Esther Beal who would be happy to discuss opportunities to get involved in the Show – she can be reached at [email protected] You can also find out more information here Get Involved – National Outdoor Expo

How are you working to reduce the carbon footprint at the show?

From working with the venue, looking at ourselves and collaborating with exhibitors. But here’s the thing… Visitors’ travel is the biggest carbon emitter of each show. So we need your help. Taking the train instead of driving will reduce the emissions of your journey by around 80%. The NEC is a 5-minute walk from Birmingham International train station or 90 seconds by the free air-rail walk. If you need to drive, car share with friends and reduce your impact by 50%. There’s a great network of cycle and footpaths in the area and bike racks are near the entrance. There are also electric car charging point and more to come in the future…

Will I need ID?

We don’t require ID to gain entry to the Show

Will there be food stalls?

Yes, there will be a number of NEC-managed food stalls, and some of our exhibitors will sell packaged food items.

Are there any jobs available?

Not currently but please contact [email protected] and we will pass your query on.

If you are interested in speaking at the event we would love to hear from you – please contact [email protected]

My question isn’t here

If you still have a question, please email us on [email protected]

Tickets

How can I get tickets?

You can book your tickets through See Tickets.

If you have a query about purchasing your ticket or if you have already booked your ticket and haven’t received a confirmation or can’t find it then you can track your order here nationaloutdoorexpo.seetickets.com/customerservice

If you still have a query, please email [email protected] or ring 0203 827 1999

Can people buy tickets on the door?

Yes, you can buy a ticket at the Show’s entrance, but we strongly recommend pre-booking for quicker entry.

Can I buy a VIP ticket?

We have made a decision not to charge for these tickets, but if you follow us on social media then you might be able to win one for free.

Can I bring children with me?

Any adult can bring a child under 16 without charge, you can book this ticket when you book your own ticket through See Tickets. Please note children under the age of sixteen need to be supervised at all times.

When will I receive my ticket?

You should have received your ticket to the show, if this is not the case please contact [email protected]

Getting There

How do I get to the NEC and what facilities are available?

Where can I stay nearby?

We've partnered with EventBeds by NuBreed Hotels to offer exclusive deals at localised hotels with savings of up to 30%. Please visit the EventBeds VIP Concierge link here.

What about parking?

You should park in the NEC car parks. The NEC has additional information on parking, but if you’re travelling by coach please email us. Please be aware the NEC charge for parking. You can book your parking at preferential rates in advance.

Accessibility

Will you have a quiet space available?

We will have small area reserved should a visitor need a few moments away from the Show floor – to find out more about this or speak to the team contact [email protected]

Can I bring my pet?

Only support animals are allowed inside the Hall

Is the venue accessible?

The NEC aims to be fully user-friendly for visitors with access needs. This is a quick guide to some of their facilities.

what's on

There’s something for everyone at the National Outdoor Expo. Be inspired and motivated by some of the world’s greatest outdoor enthusiasts speaking on the Inspiration Stage. Take part in a range of performance workshops and get your adrenaline going on one of the many interactive features which offer fun for all the family.

Keep the waterproof gear you love for longer with Grangers and the GORE-TEX brand

Grangers and the GORE-TEX brand are joining together to share expert advice on how to repair, clean and reproof clothing and footwear to maintain performance and ensure it lasts for years to come. Grangers and the GORE-TEX brand believe that aftercare has a massive part to play in reducing our impact on the world we all love to explore. By caring for your outerwear it will not only reduce waste and save you money, but also guarantee you a more enjoyable experience outdoors. 

Make sure to pop on to stand D25, to learn more about GORE-TEX Products and take advantage of 50% off Grangers to keep your GORE-TEX Products performing like-new once more. #withgrangersyoucan #provenformore

25% off all LightupU products

Head over to the LightupU stand (D30) to make the most of their show exclusive 25% discount across their entire range during the weekend of the show. Fancy winning a holiday stay at their Luxury Lodge in the Lake District? Make the most of the free prize draw entry on stand D30.

Their stand will also feature interactive games which give you the chance to win many prizes on offer. LightupU carefully design their products to be waterproof, top quality and highly visible to keep you safe. 

Free adventure accessories with eBike orders

15% off everything at the Barracuda Bay stand when scanning this QR code

Over at the Barracuda Bay stand, we have a range of sweet gear that is IDEAL for getting wet in. Our rashies will keep you looking cool, and our neoprene hoodie will keep the chill off when you need it. And the really good news is that we have 15% off all clothing items when registering with the QR code below. All you need to do is bring the registration email to the stand and show us.

We also have the last few SWEET paddle boards on offer, reduced from £475 to £299.

AAAANNNNNDDDDDD, there's a bunch of other offers as well. You'd best come talk to us so you don't miss out.

Pick your eGlove style with 10% off all ranges

Pick your eGlove style with 10% off all ranges. No matter what adventure you are taking on this spring, make sure you are prepared and styled thanks to this special discount. eGLOVE CragClimb Gloves are lightweight, breathable and touchscreen friendly cragging, climbing, bouldering, rappelling and via ferrata gloves that protect your hands without sacrificing dexterity.

The eSKI Pro – Leather Snowsport Gloves provide warmth in - 20°C, quality goat leather and, of course, style! Finally, eGlove eSKI Claw. These really are a lovely glove for beginners and intermediates - don't compromise on your kit and feel the benefit.

PLUS deep discounts on end of line products found in the discount bins on the stand.

campsite cooking with cadac

Sponsored by

10:00 - 10:30       The ultimate breakfast wraps

11:30 - 12:00      Chicken chorizo risotto

13:00 - 13:30 Perfect pizzas and a simple hack!

14:30 - 15:00 The tingling Thai green veggie curry

Emergency CPR for the untrained person 

16:00 - 16:30 Pancakes of a boozy fruity type

If you have any allergies or dietary preferences, please request a list of ingredients from a member of the Cadac team before sampling the dishes

Mountain safety and first aid hub

Mountain Rescue Hub 

Mountain Rescue England and Wales (MREW) are presenting three sessions in the Mountain Rescue Hub.

The sessions are:

Dressing for the Outdoors – The importance of layering and clothing selection

Digital Mapping – Drop-in workshop on using mapping effectively in conjunction with traditional maps.

CPR - Emergency CPR for the untrained person 

The timetable of the presentations for Saturday and Sunday:

10:00 am      Dressing for the Outdoors -

The importance of layering and clothing selection

11:00  am     Digital Mapping -

Drop-in workshop on using mapping effectively in conjunction with traditional maps

12:00 am      CPR -

Emergency CPR for the untrained person 

1:00 pm        Dressing for the Outdoors -

The importance of layering and clothing selection

2:00 pm       Digital Mapping -

 Drop-in workshop on using mapping effectively in conjunction with traditional maps

3:00 pm       CPR 

Emergency CPR for the untrained person

4:00 pm         Dressing for the Outdoors -

The importance of layering and clothing selection

Enter a competition on the Lloyd Langford Expedition Training stand to win a goody bag and voucher

Win by visiting the Lloyd Langford Expedition Training stand and scan the QR code that will take them to our Facebook/Instagram.

Once you have liked that you will be entered to win a goody bag and outdoors shop voucher!

Experience bushcraft and get show exclusive offers with Craghoppers

This year, come by the Craghoppers stand where we will be hosting a series of Bushcraft activities with our friends from Woodland Ways. Learn how to weave willow, carve spoons and experience the art of pyrography. And for those needing to spruce up their Spring outdoor wardrobe, check out the New Season, including new technical waterproofs, trousers and fleeces, with up to 50% off everything. You also have the chance to win a prize worth over £1500 including VIP tickets & Glamping at The Bushcraft Show, an Audience with Ray Mears, a Woodland Ways Course, and £500 of Craghoppers kit."

Free Waterproofing samples and amazing prize draw worth over £1,000

We look forward to seeing you at the National Outdoor Expo, Nikwax stand (G2), where you can pick up free Nikwax samples and enter our competition to win a bundle of outdoor clothing and equipment worth £1,000.

Nikwax was founded in 1977 by Nick Brown, a keen mountain walker, who designed a waterproofing wax to keep his leather walking boots dry.

Today, Nikwax is an employee owned, global leader in PFC-free aftercare and waterproofing solutions renowned for our sustainable practices. All Nikwax products are made in the UK with care for the environment.

Our mission is to help everyone enjoy the outdoors whilst protecting and preserving the natural environment. Our products extend the life of outdoor gear, clothing and footwear and elevate performance so that you stay warm and dry and your gear lasts longer.

rooftop tent demos

Sponsored by

During the show Latitude Tents will be doing rooftop tent demos of the opening and closing of the tents. As well as allowing people to climb into the tents and have a lie down.

No Air BnB fees applied, but no sleeping either!

free bosy mot assessment at her spirit

Are you suffering from niggles that prevent you from fully enjoying the outdoors, whatever the activity? If so book onto one of our 30 minute MOT sessions with our Her Spirit physio Gemma, who will carry out a head to toe assessment, looking at your joint mechanics and for any asymmetries, taking into account your injury history and activity levels, to provide you with an insight into the possible root cause of the problem.

Book on at https://herspirit.punchpass.com/timeslot?start_date=2023-03-13 and come and see us at stand K30.

Visit katherine partis and win

Katherine Partis in conjunction with Halti, a Finish outdoor brand with over 40 years of experience bring you the opportunity to win a Halti Huippu Gilet and a pair of Halti waterproof walking shoes.

The lightweight and warm Huippu down vest is perfect for year-round and versatile use. The outer fabric of the vest is made of 100% recycled material which is water-resistant and durable. The down in the vest is obtained from down blankets and pillows that are no longer in use.

Holebrook Sweden are a valued partner at katherinepartis.com, known for their sustainable materials, responsible manufacturing, and slow fashion. From full zip to pullover there really is something for everyone, our stand will be popping with the new season colours.

All you have to do to win with Halti is to visit the Katherine Partis stand (D61) and leave your details! Good luck!

15% off all products at Mustang survival

If your adventures span water and land, Mustang Survival’s Outerwear collection has you covered. The men’s and women’s Callan jackets are lightweight, waterproof, and highly breathable, ideal for outdoor pursuits. If you need a warm mid-layer, the Torrens is the jacket of choice. Made from highly breathable and quick-drying Polartec® Alpha®, this jacket continues to insulate, even when wet. Designed, tested, and manufactured in British Columbia. The men’s Hudson and Women’s Helix drysuits perfectly capture Mustang Survival’s ethos of ‘Live Beyond Land’, which are ideal for paddle sports

Find us at stand E30 and grab a 15% discount on all ranges.

win a bundle worth £135 at the lifesystems stand

Lifesystems will be running a giveaway this weekend where someone will win a Lifesystems product bundle worth over £135. They will have a large graphic on our stand about this.

To enter, simply need to scan the QR code that’s on the graphic and complete the signup form which will subscribe them to their newsletters.

harrier trail Running zone

Join one of Harrier's FREE trail sessions coming up at the National Outdoor Expo! ⁠

Harrier are thrilled to be hosting the Trail Running Zone at the National Outdoor Expo again for 2024! They've got a fantastic weekend of trail sessions planned at their stand B65!

Come back to this page to find out exactly what is happening.

the recycling centre

Sponsored by

Kitsquad takes in donated outdoor adventure clothing & equipment. It is then checked, cleaned & reproofed & passed onto low income individuals & families. Enabling them to get outdoors whilst wearing and / or using the correct & comfortable gear

Kitsquad will accept any equipment or clothing that is adventure related and still has some life left in it. Below is a list of the kind of gear that we will accept. This is not a complete list and we will consider anything adventure related.

You can find the Recycling Centre on stand B9 which is located near the entrance so you can drop off your donations before exploring the expo.

Day rucksacks

Expedition rucksacks

Rucksack liners

Rucksack rain covers

Drybags

Hiking boots

Hiking shoes

Trail running shoes

Tents

Bivvy bags

Sleeping bags

Sleeping mats

Camping quilts

Baselayers

Down jackets

Fleeces

Waterproof jackets

Waterproof trousers

Hiking trouser

Technical leggings

Technical t-shirts

Socks

Gloves/mittens

Hats (woolly and sun hats)

Camping Stoves

Lightweight camping pans

Sporks

Camping bowls and plates

Food flasks

Re-usable water/steel bottles

Mugs (enamel and collapsible)

Torches/head torches

First aid kits

Emergency whistles

Group shelters

Emergency bivvy bags

Compass

Hiking poles

Trail guide books

Maps

Power banks

Dry robes

Towelling robes

Wet suits/neoprene clothing

Swimming Shoes

Neoprene socks and gloves

ORIENTEERING CHALLENGE

Sponsored by

Visit the Newlands Adventure (B80) team during the weekend to take on their Orienteering Challenge. Use a specially designed map to find 13 points around the expo and record the letter found at each location on your map. Then all that’s left to do is to work out the word (or words) that the letters make and return this to the Newlands Adventure stand to be in with a chance of winning a voucher for £360 that can be used to book your adventure at Newlands Adventure Centre. Not only that the winner will also receive a £100 voucher for Montane so you’ll be able to kit yourself out before your adventure weekend.

Spin The Wheel For A Chance To Win An Instant Prize And Even Go Into The Draw For The Major Prize!

NOWCA is back again at the 2023 National Outdoor Expo at Birmingham NEC from 18-19 March. We will be hosting some exciting activities at the exhibition to showcase safe open water swimming.

If you are new to open waters wimming and wondering to get started, then come and speak to our team who can help guide you and provide lots of advice for newbies. They will also be on hand for venue managers or water owners who want advice about water safety and how to successfully manage a open water location. Come and visit our stand in the exhibition hall to get a live demonstration of our integrated system and how it has supported both venues and swimmers.

We’ve also got loads of prizes to give away!

Outside at Pendigo Lake, you can take part in a free open water swim or join one of our free Coach Talks. Our trusted partner, Tri Wetsuit Hire, is also offering a free wetsuit hire for your swim.

All activities are available to NOWCA members. Spaces are limited so bookings are essential via the ACTiO app.

special show offers and giveaways with every purcahse at rooster

Rooster® are a technical clothing brand, whose origin is within sustainable watersports gear. Growing from a background of dinghy sailing, Rooster was set up in 1999 by founder and chairman, Steve Cockerill, to increase accessibility in being able to buy the right kit to enable them to perform on the water, at an affordable price.  From then to now, Rooster continue to be passionate about inspiring, educating and facilitating access to the freedom of getting out in the elements, whilst being environmentally aware through every aspect of the business.

Rooster will be exhibiting a selection of key products from their 2023 collection ranging from wetsuits, bags and accessories to technical casual apparel - Everything you need to enjoy living in the elements, including their award winning Aquafleece® range will feature on the stand through a unique array of waterproof, durable products.

There will also be a giveaway with every purchase, and a specific show offer, so head over to Stand H10 to find out more.

win a wild moose robe

Wild Moose has a range of products for wild swimmers and outdoor enthusiasts. We know how important it is to get warm and dry after an outdoor dip and have developed a range of clothing and accessories to help with this. We also have bags and backpacks to protect your kit from the elements.

Come and visit us at stand G51 to say hi and to enter our competition to win a Wild Moose robe of your choice. We love to chat to swimmers and fellow outdoor enthusiasts and can’t wait to meet you.

New family holidays and specialist kids' camps at PGL

Launching family holidays to Paris and Disneyland on the stand this year, staying at PGL’s very own French chateau.  PGL are also launching a range of new specialist kids’ camps, from pony and water sports camps to cooking, sports and theme park breaks. Anyone visiting us on stand during the show will also get the chance to enter our competition to win a kids’ camp for their child and a friend during 2023.

20% off everything & a chance to win with harvey maps

Exclusive offer with 20% Off Everything, a chance to win £100 to spend at HARVEY Maps, and an Interactive Map Zone where you can win fun prizes and extra discounts! 

bote kayak bag toss

If you're looking for a fun activity while at the National Outdoor Expo, look no further than Bag Toss! Also known as Cornhole, this game is perfect for people of all ages and skill levels.

Bag Toss is a simple game that involves tossing bean bags onto a raised platform with a hole in the centre. Players take turns trying to toss their bags into the hole or onto the platform, with the goal of scoring as many points as possible. It's a game that's easy to learn but challenging to master, and can provide hours of entertainment for your guests.

Throw the bag into the hole and win a discount voucher to spend at BOTE.

reduce pain while keeping active with urban body's custom orthotics

Book your assessment today!

Do you love walking, hiking, running, or just like to keep active? 

Are you being forced to stop because of nagging foot, knee, hip, joint pain or tight muscles?  

Then you are likely to benefit from Urban Body's custom-made orthotics. 

Using state of the art 3D foot scanning and printing technology, Urban Body physiotherapists can create accurate and comfortable prescription foot orthotics. 

Custom orthotics are proven to alleviate aches and pains through providing additional support in all the right places and correcting alignment of the whole body.

Book your appointment NOW using the link to see how orthotics can keep you doing the things you love pain free!

Schedule Appointment with Urban Body Physiotherapy (as.me)

Photon sit on top kayak launch

New for the 2023 season Riber are proud to launch the PHOTON Sit On Top Kayak is the first of its kind to be made in the Peak District, UK. Keeping a timeless shape, Riber have designed the Photon Sit on Top Kayak to be packed with features. The ample hull width increases the stability on flat water. The integrated skeg cuts through the waves and the lightweight hull provides excellent tracking resulting in an effortless paddle for smooth sea use.

The PHOTON Sit On Top Kayak includes a unique bucket storage hatches with soft closure. This hatch is ideal for keeping essentials and valuables safe whilst out paddling. There are handles either side with paddle holders and an ergonomic grab handle at the rear.

In the rear storage area there are two drainage holes which means it is suitable for use with the Sit on Top Kayak Trolley which allows you to transport the kayak without the need to use a strap to secure the boat.

The PHOTON Sit On Top Kayak is made from blow moulded HDPE in Derbsyhire, UK. We select our colour range carefully to mitigate any potential colour fade over time and use UV stable pigments. The core hull is a blown in one piece mould ensuring the best possibly buoyancy and rigidity. This kayak comes with a users guide which includes details of the full one year manufacturers warranty we offer.

This kayak has a central drinks holder and space to fit an optional Rod Holder. It has five drainage holes spaced across the boat. There are several footrest points for added comfort when paddling. Also, there are a number of D-rings which can be used to secure paddles leashes or other similar items. The rear bungee storage area is ideal for any trolley.

The PHOTON Sit On Top Kayak is stable on flat waters. Consequently, the curvature and rocker of the hull mean it also performs great in the sea and amongst the waves.

Sponsored by

Sponsor name

Content here

Gemma Hunt book readings

Children’s TV presenter and Waterproofs and Wellies ambassador, Gemma Hunt, will be at the National Outdoor Expo reading from her new book, ‘A Good Friend’. Come along to her fabulous story time sessions in the yurt and make the most of the opportunity to meet Gemma in person and even get your copy of signed by the author herself. Gemma will also be returning to The Outdoor Guide stand throughout the weekend where you will have the opportunity to win, amongst other amazing prizes, a family break away.

The timings for Gemma’s storytelling sessions are:

Saturday:

11-12

4-5

Sunday:

10-11

Her spirit strength and wellness zone

Sponsored by

30 minute Body MOT with Her Spirit Physio Gemma 

Gemma Richards is an experienced physiotherapist, covering all areas of physiotherapy whilst specialising in the management of sports injuries as clinical director at Total Performance Physio. She works at the highest level with international hockey and rugby players, including in the past, members of Nottingham Rugby Club and County Cricket. Gemma also supports national and international athletes in the fields of triathlon, swimming, athletics and ice skating, as well as working alongside amateur sportsmen and women of all kinds at Her Spirit.

Are you suffering from niggles that prevent you from fully enjoying the outdoors, whatever the activity? If so book onto one of our 30 minute MOT sessions with our Her Spirit physio Gemma, who will carry out a head to toe assessment, looking at your joint mechanics and for any asymmetries, taking into account your injury history and activity levels, to provide you with an insight into the possible root cause of the problem.

Chat with the Her Spirit Open Water Swim Coaches 

Come and have a chat with the Her Spirit open water swim coaches - Sarah, Mel, Jayne, Jules and Gillian about your next challange and any help and advice you may need.

Her Spirit Strength Zone 

Come and chat to the Her Spirit strength coaches about why strength is so important for life. Take part in the Her Spirit strength challenge and WIN a bag of Her Spirit goodies and a FREE 12 month Unlimited membership 

Meet the founders 

Come and chat to Holly and Mel about why they set up Her Spirit and understand more about Her Spirit and their mission.

Ice Bath Challenge

Sponsored by

The Ice Bath Co provide cold water emersion to the masses. With the first Smart Ice Bath to the market, we are providing Ice Baths down to 2C that can be controlled from your mobile. During The National Outdoor Expo we will have a fully running Ice Bath for you to come and experience the cold waters for yourself and guided through the process by our team at The Ice Bath Co.

Can ice baths help you burn body fat? New research says yes. The authors of a new review published in the International Journal of Circumpolar Health say that taking a dip in cold water may be just the thing if you are looking to reduce the amount of unhealthy body fat that you have. Healthline

Experience Kayaking

Sponsored by

British Gliding association Flight simulator

Sponsored by

The British Gliding Association's flight simulator gives people the chance to discover what it’s like to fly a glider. Based on the cockpit from a two seat trainer, the flight software accurately models a gliders flying characteristics and the three screens realistically shows the passing landscape.

We then hope that once visitors have experienced the simulator they’ll try the real thing. With over 80 gliding clubs around Great Britain, gliding is accessible to all, is a great outdoor hobby and people may be surprised at how affordable it is.

Paddle Boarding

Sponsored by

Red Paddle Co

The Wildlife Watching Pavilion

Featuring:

Aid and elevate your passion for nature, wildlife and the great outdoors!

Come along to the Wildlife Watching Pavilion to touch and feel the best kit and learn more about the UK’s most scenic and wildlife rich nature reserves.

VIP Lounge

The VIP lounge will play host to our speakers and VIP ticket holders whilst providing a moment of respite from the busy show floor.

With comfortable seating and refreshments available, the lounge will give our VIP visitors a chance to network, meet like-minded people, mingle with our speakers and reboot before heading back out into the event.

VIP visitors will also have special goodie-bags with all sorts of outdoor-themed products.

Zip Line

That's right, you read correctly and your eyes are not deceiving you. At the National Outdoor Expo, you will be able to get your adrenaline pumping on our zip line which will be running through the exhibition hall. This is one of many interactive features at the show and is bound to be a highlight of any child's day.

***Please be aware that for health and safety reasons visitors riding the zip line will need to be a minimum of 20kg and a maximum of 80kg***

Celebrity Meet & Greet Area

After speaking on the Inspiration Stage, most of our speakers will be available to sign autographs and take selfies with visitors.

Bring your autograph books with you.

The Bushcraft Zone

The Outdoor Kitchen

Details to be confirmed soon!

The Climbing Wall

There will be both a bouldering wall and climbing towers, assisted by outdoor experts.

A 1 hour coaching session for those wishing to develop and hone their climbing movement skills.

Lead by our experienced coaches.

This is a chance to learn both the foundation skills required to develop your climbing from a beginner level and also to hone pre existing skills for those looking to take their climbing to the next level.

OUTDOOR SKILLS THEATRE

Enhance your aptitude for adventure at the Outdoor Skills Theatre.

Across the weekend, hear talks and seminars from equipment experts, professional athletes and adventurers, who are hear to offer their insight and advice on how to get the most from the outdoors.

Whether you are an avid climber, outdoor swimmer or just looking to - quite literally - push the boat out for the first time, the stage will host a balance of both beginner and advanced talks, covering an array of outdoor activities.

sCHEDULE

SAturday

Outdoor Skills Theatre

Sunday

Outdoor Skills Theatre

Inspiration Stage

The Inspiration Stage features celebrity speakers and adventurers who will tell you their stories. This is your chance to be inspired and motivated by some of the world’s greatest outdoor enthusiasts.

There will also be a chance to ask your questions and also meet the stars after their presentation for that all important autograph and selfie.

SCHEDULE

SAturday

Inspiration Stage

Sunday

Inspiration Stage

Speakers

We are busy putting together an exciting and inspirational programme that includes some of the biggest names in the industry – watch this space for speaker announcements between now and the show!

Brands

Want to join the brands below and exhibit at The National Outdoor Expo? Become a Sponsor or Exhibitor.

Exhibitors

Filter by category Showing 144 results

Active Adventure

B42

Active Camps

B42

Adidas Terrex

F65

Altra

H78

Arcade Belts

G10

Be Your Happy Place

D40

Big Bobble Hats

G90

Black Rock Adventure

G20

Black Yak

G30

Blundstone

G70

Boat Building Academy

E2

BOTE

H21

British Gliding Association

C65

Brownies Rock

H94

Cadac Dometic

I50

Camp-let

H10

Canal River Trust

G71

Chock Shop

I41

Cicerone

J32

Ciele Athletics

G10

COAST

I31

Combat Laser Games

I42

COSIMAC

F20

Craft

G72

Darn Tough

F21

ddipp®

J23

Dicky Bag

H71

Doc Spartan

E10

Dogs Trust

B30

dryrobe

B40

Earth Runs | Active for Earth

F38

eGlove

C50

estarli

K22

Explore our nature

Exposure Lights

H45

Feeet

F82

Field Studies Council

J30

Flapjackery

J22

Gill

I20

go dipping

F25

Goat Drinks

H73

Grand Trunk

G72

Grangers and GORE-TEX

D15

Greenpeace

I33

GTC

E70

Harrier Trail Running

F70

Harvey Maps

D45

Hawke Optics

F30

HealthyStep

H72

Helm Wind Outdoor Skincare

F2

Her Spirit

Hiking High

I40

Honister.com

F80

igloo

C72

Inspiring Learning

H80

Isabella

H10

John Hemming-Clark

G6

Kathmandu

C81

KEELA

F60

Keep Me Breathing

H45

Kendal Mint CO

C2

Kingswood

H31

KitBrix

C42

Latitude Tents

E20

Ledlenser

D72

Leon Boots

E4

Lifesystems

K41

Littlexplorer Company

H41

Lloyd Langford Expedition Training

I45

Lowa

D50

Mac in a Sac

E85

Medline Consultancy

D32

Monkey Sox

H40

Morsel Adventures

E81

Mountain Fuel

H32

Mountain Rescue

C92

MountainXperience

J20

Newlands Adventure Centre & Keswick Climbing Wall

G92

Nikwax

E30

NOWCA

I35

O’Donnell Moonshine

J21

Older & Wilder

I31

OLPRO

B20

Ordnance Survey

D10

Otter SOCKS

H35

Outdoor Adventure Girls

Outdoor Provisions

E6

Outdoor Scratch Maps

H64

Paqualife

E60

Páramo Clothing

E30

Peak Jewellery

K10

PelliTec

J11

PILGRIM

H74

Plantlife

C50

Ramblers

I30

Red Paddle Co

F10

Resilient Nutrition

D21

Riber Products Ltd

H20

Rooftent Utopia

C20

Rooster

H50

RSPB

E75

Salkan

D74

Salomon

G80

Savage Adventures

E82

Scouts

B90

Shokz Sport Headphones

G61

Silky Fox Saws

K11

Slowtide

G10

SplashRobe

J13

Spotty Otter

F90

Swarovski Optik

D60

Swimzi

G21

The Bucket List Company

The Countryside Code

H55

The Intrepid Explorer

J2

The Outdoor Guide

I70

The TMB Challenge

I2

The University of Central Lancashire

J10

The Wildlife Trusts

C3

Thrudark

H60

Tidal Rave™

H30

tORQ

G60

Trainer Armour

J37

Trogg Shop

C60

Urban Body

D42

Urban Tone

F85

USL Asia

H62

Retail Partner

Valley and Peak

Vibram

E35

Viking

E83

Visit Isle of Wight

F82

Visorando

G62

Walking With My Bear

I2

Warmthru

J39

Waterhaul

H90

Wild Moose

F20

WildJac

H70

Woodland Trust

E80

World Land Trust

A41

WWF

C90

YHA

D20

Yurts for Life

B90

Zero Waste Medals

C52

Zoleo

C72

Product Finder

Active Adventure Travel and Touring

Black Rock AdventureG20
dryrobeB40
estarliK22
go dippingF25
Inspiring LearningH80
KitBrixC42
Lloyd Langford Expedition TrainingI45
MountainXperienceJ20
Newlands Adventure Centre & Keswick Climbing WallG92
Rooftent UtopiaC20
Savage AdventuresE82
SwimziG21
The Bucket List Company
The Intrepid ExplorerJ2
The TMB ChallengeI2
USL AsiaH62
Visit Isle of WightF82
YHAD20

Active and Adventure Experiences

Black Rock AdventureG20
Combat Laser GamesI42
Honister.comF80
Inspiring LearningH80
KitBrixC42
MountainXperienceJ20
Newlands Adventure Centre & Keswick Climbing WallG92
Savage AdventuresE82
SwimziG21
The TMB ChallengeI2
Trogg ShopC60
USL AsiaH62

Backpacks

COSIMACF20
estarliK22
Harrier Trail RunningF70
KitBrixC42
SalkanD74
SwimziG21
USL AsiaH62
Valley and Peak

Blankets/Dry Robes/Ponchos

COSIMACF20
ddipp®J23
dryrobeB40
go dippingF25
KitBrixC42
RoosterH50
SlowtideG10
SplashRobeJ13
SwimziG21
Wild MooseF20

Bottles and Flasks

Harrier Trail RunningF70

Bushcraft

COASTI31
Explore our nature
Inspiring LearningH80
Silky Fox SawsK11
SwimziG21
WaterhaulH90

Camper Vans, Caravans, Awnings

Rooftent UtopiaC20
SwimziG21

Camping / Accessories

COSIMACF20
estarliK22
KitBrixC42
LifesystemsK41
Littlexplorer CompanyH41
Rooftent UtopiaC20
Silky Fox SawsK11
SwimziG21
USL AsiaH62

Camping / Furniture

SwimziG21

Camping / Tents

Black Rock AdventureG20
Latitude TentsE20
OLPROB20
Rooftent UtopiaC20
SwimziG21
Valley and Peak
Yurts for LifeB90

Canoes / Kayaks / SUPs

BOTEH21
Inspiring LearningH80
PaqualifeE60
Red Paddle CoF10
Riber Products LtdH20
SwimziG21
Tidal Rave™H30

Charities

Canal River TrustG71
Dogs TrustB30
Earth Runs | Active for EarthF38
GreenpeaceI33
Keep Me BreathingH45
PlantlifeC50
RamblersI30
RSPBE75
SwimziG21
The Wildlife TrustsC3
Woodland TrustE80
World Land TrustA41
WWFC90

Climbing / Safety Gear

Harrier Trail RunningF70
SwimziG21
Trogg ShopC60

Clothing / Active Lifestyle and Leisurewear

Be Your Happy PlaceD40
Black YakG30
COSIMACF20
ddipp®J23
dryrobeB40
estarliK22
go dippingF25
Her Spirit
KathmanduC81
KitBrixC42
Mac in a SacE85
Silky Fox SawsK11
SwimziG21

Clothing / Belts, Gloves, Hats, Socks, Underwear

Arcade BeltsG10
Big Bobble HatsG90
Ciele AthleticsG10
COSIMACF20
eGloveC50
FeeetF82
GillI20
go dippingF25
Harrier Trail RunningF70
Her Spirit
Monkey SoxH40
Otter SOCKSH35
SwimziG21
The TMB ChallengeI2

Clothing / Marine

GillI20

Clothing / Outdoor Apparel

Black YakG30
COSIMACF20
CraftG72
Doc SpartanE10
dryrobeB40
estarliK22
go dippingF25
Grangers and GORE-TEXD15
Harrier Trail RunningF70
Her Spirit
KathmanduC81
KEELAF60
Mac in a SacE85
NikwaxE30
SalomonG80
SwimziG21
Valley and Peak
WaterhaulH90

Clothing / Running

Be Your Happy PlaceD40
COSIMACF20
ddipp®J23
Harrier Trail RunningF70
Mac in a SacE85
SalomonG80
SwimziG21

Coaching, Courses, Skills Development, Training

Boat Building AcademyE2
Earth Runs | Active for EarthF38
Her Spirit
Hiking HighI40
Inspiring LearningH80
KingswoodH31
Lloyd Langford Expedition TrainingI45
MountainXperienceJ20
Newlands Adventure Centre & Keswick Climbing WallG92
NOWCAI35
Resilient NutritionD21
SwimziG21
The University of Central LancashireJ10

Cooking and Eating Outdoors

Cadac DometicI50
Resilient NutritionD21
Rooftent UtopiaC20
SwimziG21
Valley and Peak

Dogs / Cats Nutrition

Dicky BagH71
Dogs TrustB30

Ear Plugs

Electric Bikes / Scooters

estarliK22

Eyewear / Sunglasses

WaterhaulH90

Festivals and Events

Brownies RockH94
SwimziG21
The TMB ChallengeI2

Food and Drink / Alcohol

Brownies RockH94
O'Donnell MoonshineJ21
WildJacH70

Food and Drink / Alcohol Free

Goat DrinksH73

Food and Drink / Camping and Expedition Meals

Resilient NutritionD21

Food and Drink / Confectionary

Brownies RockH94
Chock ShopI41
FlapjackeryJ22
Goat DrinksH73
Resilient NutritionD21

Food and Drink / Energy and Functional

Kendal Mint COC2
Mountain FuelH32
Outdoor ProvisionsE6
Resilient NutritionD21
tORQG60

Food and Drink / Recipe Box

Food and Drink / Storage

Footwear / Climbing

SwimziG21
VibramE35

Footwear / Crampons and Microspikes

Trogg ShopC60

Footwear / Hiking and Walking

BlundstoneG70
LowaD50
SalomonG80
SwimziG21
VibramE35

Footwear / Insoles, Orthotics and Foot Health

HealthyStepH72
PelliTecJ11
SwimziG21
Urban BodyD42

Footwear / Marine

GillI20

Footwear / Trail Running

AltraH78
SwimziG21

Gifts, Jewellery

Peak JewelleryK10

Gliding / Flying

British Gliding AssociationC65

Headphones

Shokz Sport HeadphonesG61

Hydration Systems

Harrier Trail RunningF70
Resilient NutritionD21
SwimziG21

Insurance Provider

Mann Broadbent Insurance

Kids Outdoors

Combat Laser GamesI42
COSIMACF20
go dippingF25
Inspiring LearningH80
KitBrixC42
Littlexplorer CompanyH41
Mac in a SacE85
Riber Products LtdH20
Spotty OtterF90
SwimziG21

Lights / Torches

COASTI31
COSIMACF20
Exposure LightsH45
LedlenserD72
LifesystemsK41

Litter Picking

SwimziG21
WaterhaulH90

Magazines and Online Resources

Canal River TrustG71
Earth Runs | Active for EarthF38
SwimziG21
The Outdoor GuideI70

Mobility and Accessibility

estarliK22
SwimziG21
The Outdoor GuideI70

Navigation

CiceroneJ32
Harvey MapsD45
Hawke OpticsF30
MountainXperienceJ20
Ordnance SurveyD10
SwimziG21
VisorandoG62

Open Water Swimming

COSIMACF20
dryrobeB40
go dippingF25
Her Spirit
KitBrixC42
NOWCAI35
SwimziG21

Optics / Photography / Binoculars / Scopes

Hawke OpticsF30
Swarovski OptikD60
SwimziG21
VikingE83

Outdoor Community Group

The TMB ChallengeI2

Outdoor Kit Hire

Poles

Harrier Trail RunningF70
Hiking HighI40

Portable / Solar Power Packs

Rooftent UtopiaC20
SwimziG21

Prevention and Recovery

Doc SpartanE10
HealthyStepH72
Helm Wind Outdoor SkincareF2
LifesystemsK41
PelliTecJ11
SwimziG21
Trogg ShopC60
Urban BodyD42

Race Organisers

Earth Runs | Active for EarthF38
MountainXperienceJ20
SwimziG21
The TMB ChallengeI2

Recruitment

KingswoodH31
Newlands Adventure Centre & Keswick Climbing WallG92

Safety and First Aid

Doc SpartanE10
LifesystemsK41
Lloyd Langford Expedition TrainingI45
Mountain RescueC92

Sleeping Bags

SwimziG21
Valley and Peak

Sustainable Medals

Earth Runs | Active for EarthF38
Zero Waste MedalsC52

Trail Running Coaching

Harrier Trail RunningF70
SwimziG21

Triathlon

COSIMACF20
ddipp®J23
dryrobeB40
go dippingF25
Her Spirit
KitBrixC42
RoosterH50
SwimziG21

Water Sports Accessories

COSIMACF20
dryrobeB40
Her Spirit
KitBrixC42
Riber Products LtdH20
SwimziG21
WaterhaulH90

Wetsuits

Her Spirit
RoosterH50
SwimziG21

Wildlife Watching

Hawke OpticsF30
RSPBE75
Swarovski OptikD60
SwimziG21
VikingE83

Welcome to the National Outdoor Expo 2023

WELCOME

Esther Beal

Commercial Director
at Racoon Events

I am delighted to be returning to the NEC, Birmingham, along with our partners Ordnance Survey, to welcome you to the second edition of National Outdoor Expo this 18-19 March.

There’s something for everyone at the National Outdoor Expo whether your passion is walking, hiking, climbing, trail running, paddleboarding, kayaking, camping, open water swimming, or outdoor cooking, it’s all here. The weekend is the perfect opportunity to ignite passions for a range of outdoor activities and learn new skills. Be inspired and motivated by some of the world’s greatest outdoor enthusiasts, take part in a range of performance workshops and get your adrenaline going on one of the many interactive features which offer fun for all the family.

We have hundreds of brands across the breadth of outdoor interests for you to explore and take away with you. It’s with the support of our exhibitors that we are able to bring to you this fantastic event so I urge you to visit as many of them as you can to see what’s new and innovative and how you can be supported in your enthusiasm for everything outdoors.

Have you seen our incredible speaker line-up?  Be sure to check the agenda and don’t miss the opportunity to hear from and meet some of the most awe-inspiring legends of the Outdoors such as Ben Fogle, Helen Skelton, Hamza Yassin, Julia Bradbury and Alastair Humphreys .

Whether you’re a family of keen adventure seekers or an accomplished explorer everyone is welcome. Thank you for your support and for taking the time to come and visit the National Outdoor Expo.

All the best,

Esther Beal

Nick Goldsmith

Nick Goldsmith

Nick Goldsmith is a former Royal Marine Commando who served 11 years for his country,
from 2007 to 2018.
Now an international speaker and author, he is also the co-founder & CEO of Hidden Valley
Bushcraft, an award-winning outdoor activity company powerfully changing the way in
which we approach positive mental health.
After completing six operational deployments in some of the most hostile & demanding regions
in the world, Nick founded & led the team behind the Woodland Warrior Programme, a
globally recognised initiative featured in a 2022 BBC documentary. Supported by Invictus
Games & the Veteran’s Foundation, among other prestigious organisations, the programme is
now entering its 7th year. Drawing on his deeply personal experience of overcoming a
diagnosis of Complex PTSD, it harnesses the healing power of nature to support the
rehabilitation of Armed Forces & Emergency Service Personnel within a woodland setting.
Nick’s first book, Re-Wild Your Mind, published by Wellbeck, launched in March 2023.

Aldo Kane

Aldo Kane

Aldo Kane is a World Record Setting Adventurer, Explorer, a Fellow at the Royal Geographic Society, Producer, Author & TV Presenter with a penchant for the world’s most dangerous, extreme and remote locations.

A former Royal Marines Commando Sniper, Aldo is an expert in all environments, making him the go-to man for TV & Film companies around the world. Aldo has operated and filmed in well over 100 countries so when things get tough in TV land, it’s Aldo they call.
Over the last 7 years, Aldo has worked on well over 45 TV & Film productions, many of which were ground-breaking and fairly “tasty”, as he would have it. Aldo has been held at gunpoint, Charged by black Rhino, Abseiled into an active volcano, escaped Ebola, rowed across the Atlantic and dived on Captain Kidd’s pirate ship, and that’s just the last year or two.
Aldo has been on screen around the world on many broadcasters from the BBC, to Discovery, Nat-Geo, Channel 4, PBS, ITV, Channel 5, History Channel and many more. Aldo has appeared on Discovery with Hollywood A-Listers like Tom Hardy, Adrien Brody & Henry Cavill in some of the most extreme environments on earth. With an inquisitive mind and an extremely unique skill-set, Aldo is well set up for hard-hitting investigative journalism missions.
Aldo runs a company called Vertical Planet providing technical safety consultation & risk management for TV & Film crews operating in remote, hostile and high-risk environments around the world. Aldo was recently the on-screen Expedition Leader for National Geographic’s latest flag-ship feature length Natural History series One Strange Rock, hosted by Hollywood star, Will Smith. This saw Aldo lead a prominent American Scientist deep inside one of Africa’s most dangerous volcanoes whilst it was erupting.
Aldo joined the Royal Marine Commandos at the age of 16 and went on to become one of the youngest Elite Commando Reconnaissance Snipers in the UK armed forces. No mean feat with the hardest, and longest infantry training in the world. Aldo saw active military service from Northern Ireland to the Middle East and became a survival expert in many environments. Aldo has become an instructor in many outdoor fields including Mountain Leader, professional climber, Skydiver, re-breather diver, SIA bodyguard & qualified medic.
In 2021, Aldo wrote his first book ‘Lessons From the Edge: Inspirational Tales of Surviving, Thriving and Extreme Adventure’ published by Yellow Kite.

Ness Knight

Ness Knight

Ness Knight is a presenter, explorer and adventurer who has travelled to extreme environments all over the globe. Driven by her upbringing in Africa, Ness is determined to raise awareness of cultural and ecological topics through her conservation work and has undertaken some truly incredible challenges along the way.

Among her numerous achievements, Ness was the first female to swim the length of the Thames back in 2013 as well as completing the longest stand-up paddle board journey by a female with a 1,000 journey down the Missouri River. Ness has cycled 2,000 miles across the USA solo and once ran 15 marathons in 15 days.

Ollie Ollerton

Ollie Ollerton

Ollie Ollerton joined the Royal Marines at 18 years of age where he embarked on operational tours of Northern Ireland and Operation Desert Storm in Iraq. Following five years service with the Marines, Ollie was recommended for Special Forces selection. He would go on to become one of just five candidates to pass selection from his intake, which originally numbered 250. Having passed selection Olllie joined the Special Boat Service where he trained as a Combat Frogman. Through his 6 years of combat he undertook a number of high profile missions both on land and sea ranging from hostage rescue, counter narcotics, counter terrorism and homeland security. 

Upon leaving the Special Forces, Ollie was a key member of the inaugural Directing Staff alongside fellow ThruDark Ambassador Jason Fox on Channel 4’s SAS: Who Dares Wins – a television show that brought the realism of elite military service to the fore of public perception. Ollie has used his extensive Special Forces experience to educate and inform as a public speaker, bestselling author and founder of Break-Point Academy, a workplace programme designed to maximise team performance.

Louise Minchin

Louise Minchin

Louise Minchin is well-known and respected TV presenter, journalist, author and podcaster.

She presented the UK’s most watched morning TV programme BBC Breakfast for 20 years, covering all the major news stories of the last two decades. Before that she was an anchor on the BBC’s One O’clock News and the BBC News Channel having also presented Five Live and The One Show.

She is a keen athlete and has represented the Great Britain Triathlon team in her age-group in World and European Championships. She has competed in one of the toughest races in the world, Norseman.

In 2021 she was a contestant on I’m A Celebrity Get Me Out of Here, and has also taken part in Channel Four’s immersive history show Time Crashers and Celebrity Masterchef. She currently presents two successful podcasts, Push Your Peak from Watt Bike, and Her Spirit.

Her new book Fearless, Adventures with Extraordinary Women reflects her passion for celebrating women’s success. In each chapter Louise takes on a difficult challenge with a different courageous woman to tell their incredible stories. As part of it she has swum from Alcatraz, free dived under ice in the dark in Finland, and cycled across Argentina.

Rachel Bigsby

Rachel Bigsby

Considered to be a leading wildlife photographer amongst her contemporaries, Rachel Bigsby is carving an awe-inspiring career whilst representing young and self-taught photographers. She is best known for her fine-art work with seabirds, badgers and polar bears, and by the young age of 26, Rachel had achieved a wealth of accolades in five of the world’s leading wildlife photography competitions.

 

In addition to her work as a photographer, Rachel has filmed wildlife for BBC Earth, and presented a number of wildlife films on television for the likes of BBC Springwatch and The One Show.

Michaela Strachan

Michaela Strachan

Michaela Strachan is a BAFTA-Award winning TV Presenter, and public speaker. Having started her career on children’s TV, Michaela has grown to be one of Britain’s most loved Presenters. Michaela is extremely passionate about animal welfare, and has extensive experience of wildlife conservation around the world. Her natural effervescence and engaging humour endear her to all audiences, be it as a presenter, or public speaker.

 

She has worked extensively as a presenter, and has been part of the regular presenting team on Springwatch, Autumnwatch, and Winterwatch since 2012, and spent fifteen years presenting The Really Wild Show, as well as ten years on Countryfile, alongside many other shows. Strachan has also starred in multiple National Geographic productions, fronting Safari Live, Adopt a wild animal, and more. In April 2022, she starred as a contestant on ITV’s ‘All Star Musicals’. It has also been announced that Michaela will co-present Channel 5’s new series ‘Ice Age’, release date to be confirmed.

Deon Barrett

Deon Barrett

Bio:

I had a very conflicted childhood due to a lack of identity through racial and discrimination, bullying and the lack of a positive role model. Over time this caused deep depression and anxiety, which led to suicide attempts at an early age.

 

 

 

Growing up in the urban outskirts of the Southwest of London and due to my environment, I found myself descending on the wrong path, leading to being embedded in the local gang culture. Luckily through my mother’s passion to travel and bring me along I was able to be exposed to new landscapes.

 

 

 

Acquiring academic education in school was not my forte in my early years, except for getting into trouble. Learning has always been a difficult endeavour for me, and this continues to be a challenge. After I was diagnosed with Dyslexia this enabled me to adopt an unorthodox approach to learning.

 

In January 2022 I set out to inspire the younger generation through my own adversity that I have faced, in doing so created the “True North project” and with that sharing the idea of being able to “find your true north”.

 

 

I joined the British Armed Forces in May of 2015 where I had gone into phase one training. This drove me to being resilient but most of all reinstalled my love for the outdoors.  I had the opportunity to travel the world and enjoyed some fantastic roles that a lot of people may not get to experience.

 

 

 

After eight years I had decided to leave in pursuit of growing and scaling up the True North Project. I felt it was time as I knew there was a lot of work to be done in creating outdoor opportunities for others.

 

 

 

As a black man interested in the outdoors, I have set out to empower others like me through my various expedition. I am undertaking extreme expeditions into some of the world’s most remote and high-risk environments. The reason for choosing these areas is because there is an underrepresentation of black people within outdoor spaces and across many different disciplines, and this is something I want to challenge. I am working on becoming one of the first black brits to stand at the summit of mount Everest by 2025.

 

 

 

I believe that it is in our best interest that we endeavour to bring outdoor education to the forefront of all young minds. With this thought in mind I set out to research what our nations schools have in place to bring outdoor learning to their students through what I call the “YOUTH INITIATIVE”. It came to my attention that schools rarely have the support or have the backing to implement this within their curriculum. Unfortunately, these efforts are currently arranged by the schools independently with very limited assistance from outside resources, leaving it up to the teachers to arrange days out in their own time. The caveat being that there is also not enough time spent training staff throughout the established schools in becoming outdoor leaders themselves at some capacity. This is an ongoing effort of mine with plans to make an impact to public schools in cities around the UK.

 

 

 

I feel that outdoor education is as important to students as other subjects we currently teach and it is paramount to bring awareness to this. So my campaign to work with government and the Department for Education will hopefully make the difference needed.

 

 

 

I am also available to help in creating opportunities, safe trips to the mountains to further develop the schools aim to increase the value of their students within the great outdoors. I believe that this campaign will boost self-esteem, maturity and provide essential life skills by equipping young people with the right tools and attitude to promote their own mental resilience.

 

Rhiane Fatinikun

Rhiane Fatinikun

Rhiane is an outdoors advocate, with a passion for human empowerment and challenging the status quo. A keen cross-country runner at school, Rhiane rediscovered her appreciation for the great outdoors relatively recently, realising the positive effect getting outside and into nature could have on herself and the wider community.

 

A proud Mancunian, Rhiane previously worked in the Civil Service for several years, where she was also a trade union representative. She currently sits on the Equity Steering Committee for the British Mountaineering Council, focussing on creating better opportunities for people through social change.

 

In 2019 Rhiane founded Black Girls Hike, a charitable organisation and hiking group seeking to address the lack of representation and inclusion of people of colour in the outdoor community and to provide a safe environment for black women to enjoy the natural world. The group also run training days and skills weekends in leadership and teamwork, which also address the under-representation of black instructors in the industry. Rhiane hopes to continue the growth of BGH across the UK, which also includes chapters in London and the Midlands, and to work with likeminded groups internationally.

Helen Glover MBE

Helen Glover MBE

Helen Glover MBE is a British double Olympic champion, triple World champion and quadruple European champion in rowing.

With Heather Stanning they won Britain’s first-ever Olympic Gold Medal in rowing at the London 2012 Olympic Games. Since 2011, Helen is undefeated internationally and holds the World Record in the women’s pairs category. Helen was awarded an MBE in 2013 for her services to rowing.

At the Rio Olympic Games in 2016, Glover’s reign continued with Stanning when they retained their Olympic title. Meticulous planning, science and commitment to leave no stone unturned all played significant importance in Glover’s success.

Remarkably Helen only took up rowing in 2008 when she was identified through the UK’s Sporting Giants recruitment scheme designed to identify and train athletes of a suitable size. She is a gifted sportswoman and competitor and prior to rowing had competed internationally in cross country and trained with the England Hockey Satellite Squad.

Following the 2016 Rio Olympic Games, she married BAFTA winning TV wildlife presenter Steve Backshall and had their first child, Logan and later twins Kit & Willow. In 2017 she entered and won the 125 mile Devizes to Westminster ultra-endurance kayak race. Six days later she ran her first marathon in 3 hours 5 minutes. Later that year she qualified for the Ironman World Championships in Cape Town.

The Covid-19 pandemic saw Helen return to training with an aim of competing again, alongside Polly Swann. The pair won the European Coxless Pairs title in April of 2021.

Incredibly, just 18 months after the birth of her twins, Helen competed at the Tokyo Olympics, becoming the first British mother to row at an Olympics.

Megan Hine

Megan Hine

Megan Hine is a TV Presenter Survival Consultant, Celebrity Expedition Leader, and Adventure Catalyst.

Her vast wealth of experience and knowledge, gained from leading hundreds of expeditions and consulting for TV survival shows across the globe enables her to organise unique experiences for clients to untouched and wild places. Megan has spent time working and living with native communities all around the world, from the San bushmen in Africa to the Sami reindeer herders in the Arctic to the Iban jungle dwellers in Borneo and many more. Most of her expeditions involve working closely with native peoples and she always aims to support local communities where possible.

Megan’s primal drive to travel and explore means she can often be found breaking trail through waist deep snow, swinging in her hammock in the depths of a jungle or sharing stories sat around a campfire under the desert stars. Megan’s Knowledge and skills make her a world leading expert in all aspects of remote wilderness area expeditions, survival and TV filming. In front of the camera, Megan’s most recent credit is as co-host of 6 part series airing on Sky History, The Curse of the Lost Amazon Gold. Megan’s first book ‘Mind of a Survivor’ was first published by Coronet in May 2017.

Leo Houlding

Leo Houlding

World renowned climber, alpinist & explorer of steep terrain. Leo has led major expeditions & hard first ascents on every continent from El Capitan to Everest and the Amazon to Antarctica.

With roots on the rock, these days he is as much a 21st Century explorer as a climber taking modern action sports to the most remote corners of Earth. Skydiving and BASE jumping in the high arctic, epic polar crossings using power kites to reach obscure summits and journeys deep into the jungle sharing skills with indigenous locals to access giant cliffs and reach the top together.

Most of these trips have been documented to the highest standard producing jaw dropping imagery and multiple award winning films.

A father of two whose family adventures must been seen to be believed Leo is passionate about enabling access to adventure for all through his work as a trustee of Outward Bound.

Lucy Mills

Lucy Mills

A curious storyteller, Lucy believes in people at the heart of everything around us.  Alongside her full-time role as Head of Talent producing and casting for documentaries and branded campaigns, she is a presenter at live sport events such as the Olympics, UCI Mountain Bike World Champs, Turf Games, Battle Cancer and Hyrox.

Lucy’s mission is that no one goes unnoticed and encourages people, through her own vibrant energy, to connect with one another, celebrate and recognise the power of human connection.

Polly Shute

Polly Shute

Polly Shute is the Co-Founder of Out & Wild, the UK’s first Wellness and Experience Festival for LGBTQ+ women. She combines running her own business with being the partnership lead for PinkNews, the world’s most read LGBTQ+ media group.

Out & Wild Festival, takes place in Pembrokeshire during Pride month (June), and has a big focus on wellness and the outdoors, with activities ranging from wild swimming, bushcraft, foraging and hikes and walks.

Polly is an Award Winning Inclusion and Partnership Specialist and a recognised public speaker on LGBTQ+ and allyship. Polly has been active in the LGBTQ+ space for over 10 years, including 4 years on the Board of Pride in London.

Her love of the outdoors and frustration at the lack of events for LGBTQ+ women led her to set up Out & Wild, with business partner Becky French. Their vision is both create and curate inclusive experiences across the world.

Polly’s commitment to D&I has been recognised through various awards, including being listed in the Top 20 Not for Profit LGBT+ Leaders List by The Financial Times and more recently in The Guardian’s Pride Power List. She is also recognised as a leader in Profit for Purpose at the UK Sponsorship Awards. Polly sits on various inclusion committees, including Intermedia and Trans in the City.

Sean Conway

Sean Conway

Born in Harare, Zimbabwe, Sean had an adventurous upbringing in the Mana Pools National Park with his conservationist game ranger father, Tony. He spent his early years climbing trees and chasing elephants out of his garden, and this unique childhood has been the fuel for his adventurous ambitions.
Well-known for his quirky take on endurance sports and adventures, Sean came to the UK in 2002 with just £100 in his wallet and started working in Cambridge cutting 12,000 cabbages a day and then as a freelance photographer in London, whilst living in a tiny room in London with 7 other people, spending any cash he earned on various travels and bonkers adventures.
Sean famously sold his photography business for just £1 to pursue his dream breaking the world record for cycling around the world, Sean gained sponsorship and set out on this epic adventure on 18th February 2012. After three weeks he was ahead of schedule averaging nearly 180 miles a day. His dreams were shattered in America when a driver hit him causing severe whip lash, concussion, torn ligaments and a compression fracture to the spine. Despite this, Sean continued on dropping to 140 miles per day, changing his goal to get back to London in time for the Olympics and raise money for charity. He made it back with a week to spare, having covered 16,000 miles – 12,000 of them with a fractured spine.
In 2013 he became the first person in history to swim the length of Great Britain, having previously cycled it in 2008. After battling the weather, currents and seemingly endless swarms of jellyfish, Sean and his legendary beard wrote history on November 11 2013, after 135 days at sea.
in 2015, after a failed first attempt at running Britain, he completed the Ultimate British Triathlon when he finished his run from John O’Groats to Land’s End, without undergoing any kind of training in advance.
In 2016 Sean raised the bar once more when he took on the greatest challenge of his life. Starting in April 2016, he completed a self-supported 4000+ mile, continuous Ultra Triathlon that circumnavigates the entire coast of mainland Britain and Discovery Channel followed Sean’s incredible and dangerous journey.
He holds the world record for cycling unsupported across Europe. He completed the 4000 miles route in 24 days, 18 hours and 39 minutes. The documentary can be found on Amazon – Sean Conway’s Europe or Bust. Most recently Sean broke the world record for the most number of Ironmans completed in a row – 102!

Despite these extraordinary successes, Sean knows what it is to struggle and face set-backs.  Endurance challenges really drive Sean forward to learn and improve.  His experiences give depth and power to his engaging presentations on motivation, challenge and developing resilience.

 

Photograph credit Justin Fletcher Photography

Danny Bent

Danny Bent

Danny Bent was voted one of the 100 happiest people in the UK and one of the 50 most inspirational people in London. He is an award winning author and journalist, Guinness World Record holder, and celebrated adventurer and community leader.
Danny helps people who feel chained by life to break free, come together, and realise they are capable of the incredible. His passion is fostering happier lives, more powerful leaders, and encouraging the artists of life to create.

Belinda Kirk

Belinda Kirk

BELINDA KIRK is an explorer, mum and campaigner promoting the benefits of adventure on wellbeing and mental health. 

In 2009, Belinda established Explorers Connect to spread the word about the life-changing impact of adventure. Through the network she has encouraged 30,000 ordinary people to engage in outdoor challenges. In 2019 she launched the Adventure Mind conference and network to explore and further promote the positive impact that adventurous activity has on our wellbeing.

She wrote Adventure Revolution: The life-changing power of choosing challenge, the first book to explain the psychology of why adventure is essential to our wellbeing. Drawing on lessons learnt from leading groups into the wilderness and the latest findings in neuroscience and psychology, Belinda shows how adventure has the power to transform the timid into the confident, the addicted into the recovering, and the lost into the intentionally wandering.

Over the last twenty-seven years Belinda has led dozens of international expeditions. She’s walked through Nicaragua, sailed across the Atlantic, searched for camels in China’s Desert of Death, discovered ancient rock paintings in Lesotho and gained a Guinness World Record for rowing unsupported around Britain. She has led numerous youth development challenges, pioneered inclusive expeditions for people with disabilities and managed scientific research missions in the Amazon, Sinai and Alaska.

Ben Fogle

Ben Fogle

Ben Fogle is an award winning Broadcaster and adventurer. He has written 9 Sunday Times Best selling books and is the United Nations Patron of the Wilderness.

Ben has climbed Mount Everest, Rowed across the Atlantic, Raced across Antarctica to the South Pole and crossed the deserts of the Empty Quarter in the Middle East.

He has presented numerous programmes for the BBC, ITV, C5 and Discovery including the hit series New Lives in the Wild
A fellow of the Royal Geographic Society. He is ambassador to WWF, Tusk and Hearing Dogs for the Deaf and Patron of The Red Cross and United Nations.

Ben has presented numerous programmes including Animal Park, Countryfile, Wild in Africa, Wild on the West Coast, Crufts, One Man and His Dog, Country Tracks, Extreme Dreams, A Year of Adventures, Storm City, Harbour Lives, Countrywise and Fisherman’s Lives, New Lives in the Wild.
Ben has made documentaries on Prince William in Africa, disease in Ethiopia, Captain Scott in Antarctica and Crocodiles in Botswana.

Ben has travelled extensively in South and Central America and has toured the world for various broadcasting assignments to more than 200 places including Tristan da Cunha, Pitcairn, St Helena, East Timor, Nepal, Namibia, Kenya, the Arctic Circle, Zambia, Papua New Guinea, Uganda, Libya, Sri Lanka, Fiji, Tahiti, Maldives, Tanzania and Morocco.
Ben has worked as a special correspondent for NBC News and has published nine bestselling books, The Teatime Islands, Outposts, The Crossing, Race to the Pole, The Accidental Adventurer, The Accidental Naturalist, Labrador, Land Rover, English

A keen sailor, Ben has run the Marathon Des Sables, swam from Alcatraz to San Francisco and is also a Marathon runner, boxer and cyclist.

Ben married Marina in 2006 after meeting her in the park while the couple were walking their dogs, Inca and Maggi. They have a young son, Ludo, a daughter, Iona, and a black Labrador, Storm

Agenda

Take a look at the exciting agenda below! Session timings may change slightly in the coming weeks, as our team finalise the awesome speaker schedule.

SAturday

Inspiration Stage

9:45 - 10:15

Inspiration Stage

Ben Fogle

10:30 - 11:00

Inspiration Stage

Erin Parisi

11:00 - 11:30

Inspiration Stage

Kate Appleby

Frit Tam

11:45 - 12:30

Diversification of the outdoors

Inspiration Stage

Kate Appleby

Frit Tam

Jo Moseley

13:30 - 14.00

Inspiration Stage

Mya-Rose Craig (Bird Girl)

14:15 - 14:45

Women in adventure

Inspiration Stage

Bex Band

14:45 - 15:15

Inspiration Stage

Preet Chandi

15:30 - 16:00

Inspiration Stage

Alastair Humphreys

16:15 - 16:45

Inspiration Stage

Helen Skelton

Outdoor Skills Theatre

10:00 - 10:30

All aboard for a paddling adventure!

Outdoor Skills Theatre

British Canoeing

10:45 - 11:30

How the mountains saved my life

Outdoor Skills Theatre

Harrison Ward AKA Fell Foodie

11:45 - 12:15

How to prepare for an outdoor adventure

Outdoor Skills Theatre

Laura Kennington

12:15 - 12.45

Adventuring with a family

Outdoor Skills Theatre

Georgie Duckworth

13:30 - 14:15

The positive impact of the outdoors on mental wellbeing

Outdoor Skills Theatre

Belinda Kirk

Kate Appleby

Jo Moseley

Alex Staniforth

Dan Stanley

14:15 - 14:45

You've bought a SUP board, you've got the skills, so what's next?

Outdoor Skills Theatre

Caroline Dawson

15:00 - 15:45

How outdoor swimming can change your life

Outdoor Skills Theatre

Sian Richardson

Simon Griffiths

Ella Foote

Michelle Walker

Outdoor Swimmer

15:45 - 16:15

OS Maps: Your adventure, your way

Outdoor Skills Theatre

Ross Fitzgerald

Simon Grice

Ordnance Survey

Sunday

Inspiration Stage

10:00 - 10:45

My life through the lens

Inspiration Stage

Hamza Yassin

11:00 - 11:30

Inspiration Stage

Julia Bradbury

11:30 - 12:00

Big walls to speed walls

Inspiration Stage

Pete Whittaker

12:45 - 13:15

From life-changing injury to the World Marathon Challenge

Inspiration Stage

Darren Edwards

13:15 - 13:45

Powder to the people - What the outdoor community can and can’t do to help limit the climate crisis

Inspiration Stage

Huw James

14:00 - 14:30

Inspiration Stage

Laura Lou Crane

14:30 - 15:00

Imagine, believe, achieve

Inspiration Stage

Claire Lomas MBE

15:15 - 15:45

Inspiration Stage

Ray Mears

Outdoor Skills Theatre

10:30 - 11:00

OS Maps: Your adventure, your way

Outdoor Skills Theatre

Ross Fitzgerald

Simon Grice

Ordnance Survey

11:00 - 11:30

Tips for making your adventures more sustainable

Outdoor Skills Theatre

Huw James

Laura Lou Crane

Danny Bent

Jo Moseley

Kitsquad

11:45 - 12:30

Taking steps to get outdoors: Different voices and different perspectives

Outdoor Skills Theatre

Haroon Mota

Asma Alazaibi

Belal Ballali

Zahra Rose

13:00 - 13:30

The modern art of crack climbing

Outdoor Skills Theatre

Pete Whittaker

13:30 - 14:00

All aboard for a paddling adventure!

Outdoor Skills Theatre

British Canoeing

14:15 - 14:45

The A-Z of walking Britain

Outdoor Skills Theatre

Nick Hallissey

Country Walking

14:45 - 15:15

The power of outdoor adventure

Outdoor Skills Theatre

Nick Hall

GoApe

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