White Hall named Best Outdoor Education Provider in Peak District Kids awards
White Hall, in Buxton, has been crowned the best for outdoor adventure in the inaugural Peak District Kids Awards 2026.
The centre was Britain’s first education authority outdoor centre when it opened in 1951, it is owned and managed by Derbyshire County Council and has now been named Best Outdoor Education Provider in the Peak District Kids Awards 2026.
Councillor Simon Mabbott, the county council’s Cabinet Member for SEND and Education, said: “We’re delighted to have won this award – which is voted for by parents and kids.
“Over the years, thousands of young people will have enjoyed a trip to White Hall so I’m sure there are a lot of people across Derbyshire and beyond who have fond memories of their time there.”
Peak District Kids is a well-known online platform used by parents seeking information about events, activities and family friendly adventures across the Peak District
They held the awards for the first time this year and thousands of votes poured in for the Peak District businesses that help families get outside, explore more and make memories together.
The White Hall Centre was founded in 1951 by one of the country’s greatest rock and alpine climbers, Sir Jack Longland.
This was the very first Local Authority centre in the UK which was the catalyst for the creation of many other LEA centres across the country.
Since its establishment, more than a million people have taken part in residentials and adventurous activities courses, enjoying many activities such as rock climbing, caving, mountain biking and canoeing, as well as using the centre’s onsite climbing wall, ropes course and zip wires.
The centre works with over 10,000 children every year, providing bespoke residential and day courses for schools and groups and can also be booked privately for holidays.
Other Peak District Kids winners include the high Peak Bookshop taking home the Hidden Gem Award and the Best Campsite for Families going to Pomeroy Caravan & Camping Park.
More information about Peak District Kids Awards is available on the Peak District Kids website and to find out more about White Hall visit derbyshire.gov.uk/education/outdoor-learning/white-hall/white-hall.aspx