The main hall is the perfect space for a small group activity and is the focus for all bookings. It provides a versatile, spacious and peaceful setting for different group activities.  The ways in which the L-shaped space can be adapted enables different activities in three distinct areas. For many creative gatherings or retreats this space is ideal, and in harmony with its breathtaking natural surroundings.

Equipment required, such as chairs, tables, desks, whiteboards, cushions, mats and display boards may be offered as part of the hire, though groups hiring the space would need to bring some of their own equipment for specialised activities. 

Parking is possible on site for a limited number of vehicles.

Tea-making and refreshment facilities, including a tea urn, kettle, stove, cups, plates and utensils can be provided. Most activities will involve refreshment breaks, to recharge and for informal contact between sessions.

For those looking for additional space to relax or gather, the kitchen, sitting area, and a breakout room may be available, by prior arrangement.

A Full Risk Assessment and specific details of the planned use and expected attendance is required from each hirer, ahead of their visit, to ensure the safety and well-being of all guests, and the suitability of the use. Each group is expected to have a group leader, taking responsibility for the group, and compliance with safety.

The Old School is a tranquil setting available for daytime use.

While on-site accommodation isn’t provided, group leaders may be offered a room in special circumstances, subject to prior arrangement.

For those looking to stay nearby, the surrounding area offers a variety of charming B&Bs and homestays, while the pubs in Seathwaite and Broughton-in-Furness provide comfortable rooms for a restful night.

Further afield, there are pub rooms in Eskdale, and in Torver, and hotels in Coniston. There is a good campsite beyond Seathwaite at Turner Hall. 

We can offer advice regarding overnight stays for those attending workshops and courses who may require this.

Ulpha is a peaceful village with scattered houses and farms, an old church and a thriving community centre.

The nearest town is Broughton-in-Furness, four miles away. It’s a lovely small town, with a pleasant central square and a few shops : grocer, butcher, baker and post office. It has two cafes and three pubs, and an information centre. 

Slightly farther afield is the town of Millom, at a distance of ten miles, which has two supermarkets and several other shops. 

Ulverston is the largest nearby town  with good facilities, including most types of shops, a couple of supermarkets, a few cafes and several pubs. 16 miles from Ulpha, it’s an interesting town to visit, with a lively atmosphere, and is close to Morecambe Bay. 

Closer to Ulpha, there’s a pub in the small village of Seathwaite, 3 miles away and one in in Broughton Mills, 5 miles away, both serving meals. 

Parking at the site is limited  to just two or three vehicles. We encourage ride-sharing and the use of public transport and taxis, and this is essential for larger groups. 

The nearest railway station is at Foxfield, five miles away, on the Northern Rail West Coast line between Barrow-in-Furness and Carlisle.

There are also stations at Millom on this line and at Ulverston and Barrow on the Northern Rail line between Lancaster and Barrow. 

Taxis and minicabs are available from each station, these need to be pre-booked.

There is no public transport in the Duddon Valley – enhancing the sense of solitude and quiet in the valley, although the quiet valley road runs fifty yards from the Old School. 

We can offer advice and assistance with travel planning. 

The charge for hiring the main hall is typically £400 for the first day, reducing to £250 for additional days up to three days, then £200 per day beyond that. This is for groups of between six and ten. 

An additional charge of £20 per day, per person above ten, is normally made, up to a normal maximum of twenty.

Groups who hire the kitchen are charged an additional charge of 25%, or for the whole centre,  including breakout room, an additional 60%, depending on the precise requirement.

If equipment  is provided, such as chairs, tables, desks, mats etc, there is an additional flat rate charge of £50 - £100.  

Discounts will be offered for smaller groups, and especially for local, community and charity groups.

Costs are always agreed individually  according to the specific agreed use, and the above is simply a guideline. 

Contact us for individual pricing.