AQ’s 2025 Campout – a resounding success

Jun 3, 2025 | Adventure Queens

It’s not often that we toot our own horn at AQ HQ, however we thought we’d make an exception just this once!

In mid-May, a group of Adventure Queens, many of whom were completely unknown to each other, came together for an adventure-filled weekend in a picturesque Lancashire location to camp, share stories, laughs and experiences.

The schedule was jam-packed with a range of activities, including a storytelling workshop with famous author and AQ founder Anna McNuff, a gravel bike ride with event sponsor Alpkit, campfires, rambles, Pilates, yoga and sunset walks. Our friends at Nikwax also ran games, giveaways and workshops, which added to the fun. 

After the campout was over, feedback from those who joined arrived in droves, which we wanted to share with you. So, for any of you that missed it, hopefully the comments below give you the full flavour of the weekend:

‘It was a fabulous weekend and I have left with so much more knowledge, information and advice. So many kind, helpful and generous people. Thank you to each of you.’ Sarah

‘Just got home and unpacked 😊 thank you for an awesome weekend, so lovely to meet you all! Especially thank you Nadia and all the volunteers for organising a great event! I heard so many recommendations for books/podcasts/kit/route and I’m sure I’ve forgotten half of them!’ Kate

‘I had a wonderful weekend and loved spending time with you all and in such a beautiful place. I’m inspired to start planning my next adventure and writing more.’ Zoe

‘Huge thanks to all those who organised and all “queens” for all the amazing company, chats, total inspiration and fun! So glad I plucked up the courage to come along  – looking forward to next year and everything in between.’ Caroline

‘I just can’t express what a fab weekend this was – a lovely, caring, inspiring safe space to experiment with camping gear, incredible speakers and that Mandala yoga just sums up the feeling of unity – we came as strangers but hopefully made some beautiful long-term connections.’ Shilpa

‘A much needed remedy for momma bears in urgent need of elusive me-time. Time spent being, learning and connecting, rather than doing, managing and responding.’ Vanessa      

‘This weekend I did something different and new for me. I attended the Adventure Queens camp with other like-minded women interested in outdoor activities. I only booked it a week ago after having to cancel my holiday abroad due to health reasons. I felt pretty self-conscious pitching my tent for the first time on Friday night, not wanting to look foolish by getting it wrong. In reality, I’m sure no one but myself had any critical thoughts, and I managed to get the tent pitched pretty quickly. There have been plenty of activities such as walks, Pilates, and a run to take part in, but I think my favourite part was the storytelling workshop from Adventure Queens co-founder Anna McNuff last night, and talks from a couple of people sharing stories of their past adventures tonight. I know I’ll have plenty I’ll be mulling over on the 5 hour drive tomorrow.’ Kazz

‘What a fabulous weekend with the Adventure Queens and @nikwax and @alpkit. There were lots of activities, biking and hiking, talks and my favourite one was of course the workshop with the legendary Anna McNuff on writing stories. A nicer friendlier group of women would be hard to find.’ Cathy

We wanted to say a huge thank you to every one of you who came to the campout, our AQ volunteers,  our event sponsor Alpkit and our partner Nikwax. We are so grateful to our supportive AQ community.

If you feel inspired to attend the next campout, there will be another in summer 2026. Keep your eyes peeled for more details!