We have on site a wide range of indoor and outdoor activities available which are all well suited for a group event. Some of the more popular ones are :
Clay Pigeon Shooting - our shooting school offers full instruction and can organise competitions
Off Road Driving - using qualified instructors on our off-road course this can be an adrenalin driven event for those wanting more of a challenge
Golf - our nine hole golf course is adjacent to the hotel, and guests can play at any time (subject to any club competitions) as individual groups or we can also organise a corporate day. Our PGA Professional, James Sibbles, is available for instruction - with a choice of half hour lessons, a nine hole lesson or a golf day. There are also several other 18 hole courses nearby
Fishing - something which is very popular with complete beginners as much as the experienced, there is excellent fishing available on the estate, from fly fishing on the river Ure for wild trout, grayling and salmon; coarse fishing on the lakes in the parkland; and fly fishing on the stocked Leighton Reservoir. Ghillies are available for tuition and guidance.
Orienteering, Walking and Treasure Hunts - take to the hills on foot or by car to explore the beautiful Dales countryside, with a competitive angle also an option, and a minibus available to bring you home again at the end of the day.
Tie this in with a luxury picnic laid on at our Moorland Bothy, a truly memorable experience with an open fire and spectacular views.
Coracles - For something really out of the ordinary, learn about the 10,000 year history and construction of coracles, and explore the lakes here at Swinton Park with coracle-maker, Dave Purvis. Courses run from 1 hour to half a day.
Falconry - this is both a striking and rare opportunity to enjoy a close encounter with a bird of prey. Demonstrations last from half an hour or longer, and flying and hunting experiences can also be arranged.
Cookery School - Cooking as a team building event is fast becoming a very popular activity, requiring full participation from all in an environment which promotes interaction and breaks down barriers. For those looking for something new, it also offers something a bit "different" from the more obvious choice of activity, and is a rare opportunity to learn skills which appeal across the board.
Events can be tailored to suit your needs but can range from a simple demonstration to a half day "hands on" experience for all.
If you are looking for the celebrity angle, Rosemary Shrager, the TV chef, is available to run a limited number of courses.
The school is also available for hire as a stand alone facility for demonstrations, food tastings, presentations or fine dining.
Spa Experience - this is aimed at those who enjoy the finer things in life. We can organise face, body and beauty treatments and demonstrations from Jo Malone, [comfort zone], Jane Iredale and Jessica, and the exclusive use spa can also be booked for private groups.
Race Days - York, Ripon, Thirsk and Catterick race courses are nearby, along with flat racing at Doncaster. Race times are in the daytime and early evening, and can be combined with a trip to the local gallops and stables at Middleham where you can meet the trainers and jockeys for a few tips for the day!
Cricket - bring along a team to challenge the Swinton Park XI. This is always a very relaxed and enjoyable afternoon played on the wicket underneath the castle turret, a truly spectacular setting.
Brewery Tours - Masham is one of the original Yorkshire brewing towns and is home to the Theakstons dynasty - brewing both Theakstons and Black Sheep ales. Brewery tours are available at both breweries which we are very happy to help arrange.
Facilitators and Event Organisers
We are more than happy to put you in touch with event companies to organise on site training or any team building activity - indoors or out. There is ample room in the parkland for
One of our closest facilitators is a renowned Horse Whisperer at the nearby Learning to Listen Centre who has developed her communication skills at a corporate level - please do not hesitate to ask for further details.
There is also the nearby "Aerial Extreme" adventure ropes course and team building centre at Camp Hill with whom we have worked closely on many events.