Herts Young Mariners Base Residential Centre Hertfordshire

The Herts Young Mariners Base offers schools a comprehensive outdoor-education experience in the Lee Valley, combining land- and water-based activities that support teamwork, confidence and practical skills.

On the water students can try kayaking, canoeing, bell-boating, stand-up paddle-boarding, sailing or raft-building — all led by trained instructors and adaptable to different ages and abilities. On land there is climbing, caving, archery, bush-craft, problem-solving challenges and orienteering. 

Suitable for both day visits and longer stays, the centre is equipped with facilities to cater to large groups (up to 300 participants), accessible changing rooms (including hoists for water access), and convenient transport links (a short walk from Cheshunt station). Schools can link activities to the curriculum — for example map-skills in orienteering, communication and leadership through team challenges — and HYMB will tailor programmes to the group’s needs

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Herts Young Mariners Base is an excellent group accommodation choice for school trips or educational visits thanks to its convenient location near Cheshunt train station, spacious facilities, and a wide range of outdoor activities tailored for different age groups and abilities.

With access to both land and water-based activities like kayaking, climbing, bushcraft, and orienteering, the centre supports curriculum-linked learning, team-building, and personal development. Its partnership with the nearby YHA London Lee Valley also allows for comfortable residential stays, making it ideal for both day trips and longer educational experiences.

On the water students can try kayaking, canoeing, bell boating, stand up paddle boarding, sailing or raft building. On land there is climbing, caving, archery, bush craft, problem solving challenges and orienteering.

Herts Young Mariners Base holds accreditation under the Adventure Activities Licensing Authority (AALA).

We can cater camping to 100 people on site with bell-tents and various camping accommodations.

Adjacent accommodation: YHA London Lee Valley is located next door, offering convenient overnight stays for school groups and clubs 

We can provide risk assessments and planning resources for teachers.

No restrictions are in place.

Phone: 01992 628403

Email: hymb@gll.org

Herts Young Mariners Base staff are trained to deal with first aid incidents.

Changing rooms and showers: Suitable for groups and individuals.

Meeting and training rooms: Available for briefings, lessons, or indoor activities.

Equipment hire and storage: Including wetsuits, helmets, and safety gear.

On-site parking: Free and suitable for cars and minibuses.

Outdoor benches: space to eat a packed lunch.

Café: to purchase hot and cold drinks and snacks.

Hot food can be provided by the adjacent YHA London Lee Valley which can be arranged through Herts Young Mariners Base.

There is easy ground floor access to the centre. There are hoists in the 2 disability rooms and a waterside hoist to assist participants on to the water if required.

Monday 9 am–5 pm

Tuesday 9 am–5 pm

Wednesday 9 am–8 pm

Thursday 9 am–8 pm

Friday 9 am–5 pm

Saturday 7:30 am–2:30 pm

Sunday 7:30 am–2:30 pm

Herts Young Mariners Base (HYMB) in Cheshunt is surrounded by several engaging and age-appropriate destinations for under-18s. Just 1.2 miles away is the Lee Valley White Water Centre, a popular spot for kayaking, rafting, and paddleboarding, offering both beginner and advanced sessions suitable for children and teens. The nearby Lee Valley Boat Centre (2.8 miles) provides scenic boat trips along the River Lee, ideal for relaxed group outings. For younger adventurers, the ESSA Water Activities Centre and Ware and District Scouts (around 3.1–3.3 miles away) offer structured outdoor programs and water-based fun tailored to youth groups.

Herts Young Mariners Base in Cheshunt is well-served by a range of transport options, making it easily accessible for visitors. The nearby Cheshunt Railway Station offers direct train services to London Liverpool Street and other regional destinations, ideal for school groups and commuters. Local bus routes connect the base to surrounding towns such as Waltham Cross, Broxbourne, and Enfield. For road access, the base is close to the A10 and M25, providing convenient links for car and coach travel. Additionally, cycling paths and pedestrian-friendly routes through the Lee Valley Park offer scenic alternatives for active travellers.