20 Years of Adventure

Submitted by danbyrnes on

How it all started

In February 2006, through a desire to meet people outside the typical gay scene of bars and clubs, a bunch of lads on an online forum decided to meet up for a winter camping trip in the Lake District (pictured). This became the very first OutdoorLads event, and despite the freezing temperatures, it proved to be a success, showing there was demand for gay and bisexual men to connect through adventure and time in the great outdoors.

I’ve done so many new things, from hiking to camping and hosteling. I’ve met so many new friends - OutdoorLads has changed my life.

Since then, the group met for dozens of events that year and into 2007 including other camps, hostels, hikes, indoor climbing, caving, and socials.

View more 2006-2007 images on this Instagram post >

 

In 2008 OutdoorLads became incorporated as a company, and registered as a charity with the aim of improving the physical and mental wellbeing of the LGBTQ+ community through the outdoors.

OutdoorLads has increased its membership, volunteers and events offering steadily since, and now we boast over 5,000 active members; almost 400 volunteers, and over 1,500 events each year around the UK! 

"To say that OutdoorLads has over-delivered on the friendship front is a massive understatement. I’ve made friends for life from across the UK and have done so many fantastic events."

 - Jonathan, OutdoorLads Walk Leader

📺 In 2011, OutdoorLads released this promotional introductory video:

I’ve been on some great events and made some good friends, I’m always looking forward to my next event.
Andrew, OutdoorLads Walk Leader

"I’ve seen beautiful parts of the country I may not have visited otherwise. I’ve made loads of new friends. I’ve grown in confidence with socialising with big groups. I’ve met interesting people from all walks of life and from all parts of the country (and abroad) that I would never have met otherwise."

 - Peter, OutdoorLads Member

📺 And now, in 2026, why join OutdoorLads?

It feels like finding your tribe!
Neil, OutdoorLads Walk Leader

🎈 To Celebrate 20 Years of Adventure

  • We're hosting a "BIG20" event each month in 2026, until we finish off with a Celebration AGM Weekend in September!
  • Merch: We'll be giving away special edition pin badges and sew-on patches to Members on the above events!
  • Leader Rewards: We're giving our amazing volunteer leaders a variety of gifts when they lead over 5 events in 2026 until the AGM weekend!