The "Exmoor Classroom" provides a unique environment in which to study.

Pinkery is the Exmoor National Park Authority's residential Centre for Outdoor Education. The Centre stands in a superb isolated setting on the southern side of The Chains, the high spine of Exmoor. At over 400 metres above sea level we believe it may be the highest education establishment in the country! The centre's immediate environment offers a wealth of opportunities for work in a wide range of subjects, with groups of all ages, and its location also allows rapid access to the vast variety of habitats and landscapes of Exmoor.

The centre began life as one of the farmsteads created in the 19th century by John and Frederick Knight, and worked as a farm until 1969, when it was purchased by Somerset County Council. Since then, and particularly in recent years when it has been owned and managed by the ENPA, it has developed into a comfortable, secure and flexible base from which groups can enjoy the opportunities that Exmoor Offers.

Pinkery accommodates groups of 32, plus staff, in modern bedrooms, the majority of which have en-suite shower and toilet. It also offers a teaching room, two lounge areas, drying facilities, and a separate dining area.

Most visiting groups prefer to do their own catering, finding that only is this cost-effective, but also gives maximum flexibility. Our newly-fitted, well equipped kitchen makes this a relatively simple task. If, however, self-catering is not appropriate to your needs it is often possible to provide a fully catered course.

Our programmes are normally created by the staff of the visiting establishment, with assistance from the full-time Head of the Centre. This ensures that the experiences offered are relevant to the particular needs of the visiting group.

Users range from primary schools, where emphasis is often on a wide range of experiences, some directly related to the curriculum, others more generally concerned with personal development, through secondary groups, including A level field study, and Duke of Edinburgh Award training, through to higher education establishments, and a wide range of community-based groups - in short any group who can benefit from the opportunities that Exmoor offers.

The Pinkery Centre which lies in the heart of Exmoor

Feedback on Pinkery

Pinkery Energy Renewable Scheme 1999-2003 (PDF, 280kb)

Ecocentre Information - Pinkery's Plans

Our aim is to foster awareness of, and concern for, the environment, and we see enjoyment as an important element in this process. As well as facilities for environmental study we can offer a range of outdoor activities, mainly at an introductory level. Orienteering, problem-solving activities, shelter-building and camping can all take place on-site, and we can also provide equipment and instruction for novice canoeing, rock climbing and abseiling, and mountain biking.

Why not phone us to discuss ways in which we can help you to deliver your aims:

Alan Bailey
Telephone No: 01643 831437
FAX No: 01598 741149

E-mail:
abailey@exmoor-nationalpark.gov.uk