If you’re after free, beginner navigation skills in your local area then the Ramblers' Out There Award is for you.

A free two-day outdoors skills experience for 18- to 26-year-olds.

Learn entry level navigation skills, make new friends and enjoy fun days exploring your local area as part of the Out There Award.

This free two-day award is designed for young people aged 18 to 26, whatever your background, experience, location, or budget. It’s a friendly, welcoming way to build confidence outdoors – no prior experience needed.

How the two days work:

The Out There Award is not a formal qualification so there’s no test and no pressure! It’s all about taking part, learning, and having fun.

Day one is the skills day. You will learn navigation basics while discovering a local walk and making new pals.

Day two is the exploring day. You will build on the skills of day one and explore an amazing local walk.

Both days are led by qualified instructors, who will bring the learning to life.

What you’ll get when you complete the award:

Everyone who completes the two days gets:

· A free Ramblers starter pack worth £30, crammed full of navigation and safety essentials, including a compass.

· A year of Ramblers membership worth £43, giving you access to group walks across Britain, Walk magazine and our library of routes.

· A signed Out There Award certificate

Coming on your own?

Most people don’t know anyone when they turn up to the Out There Award, so that’s completely normal and we provide a welcoming atmosphere. However, if you would rather not come alone, you’re very welcome to invite a friend to sign-up with you.

Still not sure? Email Ali Cooper at the Ramblers to ask any questions: outthereaward@ramblers.org.uk.

Important information:

· You can only complete the Out There Award once so we canoffer the opportunity to as many people as possible.

· The Out There Award is always held in accessible locations that can be easily walked to or reached by public transport.

Aberdeen programme

Here’s a video of what to expect during the two days of your Out There Award.

Day one: Outdoor skills – Saturday 26th September 2026, 10am to 5pm - starting at Beach Ballroom, Beach Promenade, Aberdeen AB24 5NR

This is a chance to get hands on with maps and navigation, while getting to know fellow participants.

We’ll cover the skills needed to safely enjoy great days outdoors. It’s a practical day of walking and learning. We usually cover about 6km, at a gentle pace, but will meet the needs of those who attend. We’ll cover topics including:

· How to be a self-sufficient walker

· How to safely plan a walk

· Access and walkers' responsibilities

· Outdoor equipment and clothing

· What food and drink to carry

· Core introductory navigation skills for using maps

· Introductory compass skills

· Staying safe when you’re out and about.

Day two: Exploring day – Sunday 27th September 2026, 10am to 5pm - starting at the same place as Day 1 unless agreed with your instructor.

Using everything we learned on day one we'll explore a local walk while continuing to build on your outdoor skills. The aim is not to just walk vast distances, it’s about exploring new places and practicing skills in a fun, social setting.

You’ll develop the skills to plan a walk, navigate and work as a team. Most importantly, you’ll decide when and where to have lunch!

If you can't make this Out There Award have no fear, why not check out our Out There Award dates here.

The Out There Award is possible thanks to support from players of People's Postcode Lottery.If you’d like any more information or have any questions at all, please email us outthereaward@ramblers.org.uk

Description supplied by the event organiser.