Our Story

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.

White Hall alpine course 1976

Buxton Community School Kayak fun!

Climbing at Windgather in the 1960’s

Teaching abseilling

Skiing used to be taught at White Hall!

Prince Philip and Jack Longland 1958

Prince Philip and Jack Longland at Castle Naze 1958

Prince Philip with a White Hall instructor and student, 1958