Adventure and Challenge

Throughout the weekend, the group threw themselves into a range of adventurous activities, including:

• Caving – exploring underground passages, squeezing through tight spaces and discovering hidden chambers.
• Ghyll scrambling – navigating rocky streams and getting thoroughly soaked if you dared.
• Climbing – pushing limits, building trust and cheering one another on to reach the top.

It was inspiring to see young people encourage each other, face fears and celebrate one another’s achievements. Confidence grew visibly over the course of the weekend.

Evenings Full of Laughter

When the harnesses came off and the wetsuits were hung up, the adventure continued.

Evenings were filled with competitive games of Spoons and Werewolf, plenty of snacks, and staying up just a little later than planned. A highlight for many was gathering around the campfire — singing songs, toasting marshmallows and making s’mores under the cloudy and slightly rainy night sky.

Those informal moments often become the ones that matter most: deep conversations, shared jokes, and memories that will last long after the weekend ends.

More Than Just a Trip

While the activities were unforgettable, the real impact of the residential was seen in the relationships built and strengthened. New friendships were formed across year groups and churches, young people supported and encouraged one another and confidence grew through shared challenges.

We are so proud of every young person who came along and embraced the experience so fully. Buckden House 2026 will certainly be remembered as a weekend of adventure, courage, laughter and friendship.

We’re already looking forward to the next one!

Thanks to Shannon for this write-up and for the for photos.  Big thanks to Alex, Jenny and Steve for their leadership (and cooking skills).

The next residential for this age group is Easter Rally, which is from 7th – 10th April 2026.