Otterburn Training Area - Image 1
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Otterburn Training Area

3
·30 reviews·Otterburn, United Kingdom

A rugged military training ground in Northumberland offering adventure activities, teamwork challenges, and unique firing range experiences for organi...

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best chance for sunshine

CrowdMedium
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Otterburn Training Area - Image 1

Otterburn Training Area

Best Time

Summer mornings

Best chance for sunshine

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A rugged military training ground in Northumberland offering adventure activities, teamwork challenges, and unique firing range experiences for organized groups.

3
(30 reviews)

"Amazing staff and amazing activities, a truly memorable experience for CCF camps!"

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TIP

🎒 Pack for All Weather

Layers are key! Waterproofs, sturdy boots, and sun protection are essential.

🤝 Friendly Staff & Food

Expect welcoming organizers and delicious meals from the chefs.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Firing Range Experience

Live Firing Range Experience

Experience the thrill of firing live ammunition under expert supervision. A memorable first for many visitors.

Reddit
Teamwork & Communication Tasks

Teamwork & Communication Tasks

Engage in challenging activities designed to build camaraderie and problem-solving skills.

Reddit
Adventure Activities

Adventure Activities

Enjoy a range of exciting options like tag archery, paintball, and laser shotgun.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Elements

Otterburn is known for its unpredictable weather. Pack layers, waterproofs, and sturdy footwear, as conditions can change rapidly. Be prepared for rain, wind, and sun, often within the same day. Reddit

Activity Focus

This is primarily a military training area. While some activities are open to civilian groups like CCF contingents, access for general tourism is limited. Check specific event schedules or group bookings. Reddit

Best Times

When
Summer mornings
Why
Best chance for sunshine
Crowd
Medium
When
Dry spells
Why
Minimizes discomfort
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

What’s the best and worst army training locations?

🎒 Pack for All Weather

Layers are key! Waterproofs, sturdy boots, and sun protection are essential. Reddit

🤝 Friendly Staff & Food

Expect welcoming organizers and delicious meals from the chefs. Reddit

reddit.com

What do soldiers think of Army Cadets?

🛠️ Be Prepared for Basic Facilities

Some buildings may be rustic, but the experience is worth it. Reddit

😊 Embrace the Camaraderie

Connect with other contingents and enjoy the shared experience. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎒 Pack for All Weather

Layers are key! Waterproofs, sturdy boots, and sun protection are essential. Reddit

🤝 Friendly Staff & Food

Expect welcoming organizers and delicious meals from the chefs. Reddit

🛠️ Be Prepared for Basic Facilities

Some buildings may be rustic, but the experience is worth it. Reddit

😊 Embrace the Camaraderie

Connect with other contingents and enjoy the shared experience. Reddit

What Travellers Say

3
(30 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally have a highly positive experience at Otterburn Training Area, particularly those attending as part of organized groups like CCF contingents. The adventure activities, teamwork challenges, and the unique opportunity for live firing are frequently praised. While accommodation can be basic, the excellent food and friendly, organized staff make for a memorable and enjoyable stay, despite the challenging weather conditions.

"Came here as part of Ormiston Maritime Academy CCF as part of our annual camp, had much fun, the activities such as tag archery, paintball, laser shotgun, dcct, and various communication and teamwork tasks were amazing, the other contingents were very friendly and same goes for those who organised the events. It was very sunny during the stay and the sleep in the barracks was very nice though one night was quite rough. The food was very nice and the chefs were very friendly, overall i rate Otterburn Training Camp a 5/5 thanks to the very fun and enjoyable stay. I thank all those who organised it and im very grateful for the opportunities i had here. This was also my first time firing live ammunition and i am so happy that i got to experience that :)"

Jayden Dale

"Had a great time here on my annual camp, buildings were nearly falling apart though. However the staff and food were fantastic. Would love to come again after sone repairs"

Dominic

"Went there for training in 1977 for Army cadets long time ago fond memories of the place used to have its own picture house don't know if its still there though lol 😆"

Powell Peter

What People Like

Amazing activities
Friendly staff
Great food

What People Dislike

Basic accommodation
Unpredictable weather

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Otterburn Training Area is located in Northumberland, England. Access is typically via private transport or organized group transport. Specific directions will be provided by your organizing body if you are attending an event. Reddit

Public transport options directly to the training area are very limited. It's best to arrange transport through your group or consider a taxi service from the nearest major town, though this can be costly. Reddit

For CCF camps, travel is usually coordinated by the school or CCF unit. This often involves coach travel directly to the site. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Otterburn Training Area is primarily a military training facility. General public access is restricted. Visits are typically for organized groups such as CCF contingents or specific events. Reddit

Bookings are usually made through official channels for organized groups. If you are part of a CCF or similar organization, contact your unit leader for booking information. Reddit

As a training area, it operates on a schedule determined by military needs. Access is controlled and typically only permitted during organized events or training periods. Reddit

For organized group activities, fees are usually part of the overall camp cost. There isn't a standard 'ticket' for casual visitors due to restricted access. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Activities often include tag archery, paintball, laser shotgun, communication tasks, teamwork challenges, and for some, live firing range experiences. Reddit

Accommodation is typically in barracks. While functional, some reviews mention buildings can be basic or in need of repair, though the sleeping experience is generally reported as good. Reddit

The food is generally praised as very nice, with friendly chefs. It's often a highlight for visitors. Reddit

Sturdy, comfortable footwear is essential. Pack layers of clothing, including waterproofs, as the weather can be unpredictable. Reddit

Otterburn is primarily for organized youth groups like CCF. While families might visit as part of a group event, it's not a typical family tourist destination. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Otterburn Training Area is not a typical family tourist destination. It's primarily a military training facility. However, if your child is part of a CCF (Combined Cadet Force) or a similar youth organization, you might be visiting for an annual camp or event. In this case, the experience can be incredibly rewarding. Reddit

Focus on the adventure activities like paintball and archery, which are often a huge hit with younger participants. The opportunity for them to experience live firing (under strict supervision) is a unique and memorable aspect. Reddit While accommodation is basic barracks, the food is generally excellent, and the staff are friendly and organized. Encourage your child to embrace the teamwork challenges and the opportunity to bond with their peers. Reddit

CCF Cadets & Youth Groups

For CCF cadets and similar youth groups, Otterburn Training Area offers an unparalleled experience. The range of adventure activities like paintball, laser shotgun, and archery are designed to be both fun and challenging, fostering essential teamwork and communication skills. Reddit The chance to participate in live firing is a significant highlight, providing a realistic and exciting military-style experience. Reddit

Embrace the rugged environment and be prepared for all types of weather. The communal living in barracks and shared meals contribute to a strong sense of camaraderie. Reddit The friendly and efficient staff are there to ensure a safe and memorable training camp. Many cadets leave with fond memories and a greater appreciation for discipline and teamwork. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Weather and What to Pack

Otterburn Training Area is notorious for its challenging weather. Visitors frequently mention being wet, cold, and hungry, suggesting that the picturesque images often don't reflect the typical conditions. Reddit It's crucial to pack accordingly. Think layers, including thermal base layers, fleece mid-layers, and a reliable waterproof and windproof outer shell. Sturdy, broken-in walking boots are non-negotiable, as you'll likely be on your feet a lot over uneven terrain. Don't forget warm socks, a hat, and gloves, even in summer. Sunscreen and a hat are also advisable for those rare sunny days. Reddit

The key is preparedness. Being comfortable in the elements significantly enhances the overall experience. Many reviews highlight the importance of good gear for enduring the training and activities. Reddit Remember that the area is exposed, so wind chill can be a factor even when it's not raining.

Activities and Experiences

Otterburn offers a variety of engaging activities, particularly for organized youth groups like the Combined Cadet Force (CCF). Popular options include tag archery, paintball, and laser shotgun, which are consistently described as amazing and fun. Reddit These activities are designed to foster teamwork and communication, with many visitors noting the positive impact on their group dynamics. Reddit

For those seeking a more intense experience, the opportunity to fire live ammunition on the range is a significant highlight for many first-time visitors. Reddit This is conducted under strict supervision, providing a memorable and educational experience. Beyond these specific activities, the training area itself provides a rugged environment for various communication and teamwork tasks, pushing participants to problem-solve and collaborate effectively. Reddit The staff organizing these events are frequently commended for their friendliness and effectiveness. Reddit

Accommodation and Dining

Accommodation at Otterburn Training Area is typically in barracks. While functional, some reviews suggest that the buildings can be basic and show signs of wear and tear, with one mention of them 'nearly falling apart'. Reddit Despite this, the sleeping experience is generally reported as good, with one visitor noting a 'very nice' sleep in the barracks. Reddit

The food, however, receives consistent praise. Visitors describe it as 'very nice' and highlight the friendliness of the chefs. Reddit This aspect of the stay often contributes positively to the overall experience, providing welcome sustenance after a day of activities. The combination of basic but adequate accommodation and excellent food creates a balanced experience for those attending training or camps. Reddit

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