Be part of an exceptional DofE Open Gold Expedition

Join a group of like-minded individuals to complete your DofE Gold Practice and/or Qualifying expedition.

"I could not have asked for a better company. So much support and guidance was provided. The instructors had so much knowledge, making the expedition so interesting".

Hannah Winpenny - DofE Gold Open Expedition Participant

DofE Gold Open Expedition programmes include:

Training / Refresher
Practice Expedition
Qualifying Expedition

All DofE participants need to complete a period of training followed by a Practice and then a Qualifying Expedition. You can choose to take part in one of these elements with us, or both, the choice is yours. Many participants choose to join us for their full expedition experience and along the way gain a group of long lasting friends who've shared in the experience with them.

Our comprehensive expedition programmes are ideal for making the expedition process challenging and as enjoyable as possible. Friendly and expertly trained instructors are always available to help and guide you through the process.

Incredible DofE Gold Expedition Locations

Our Open DofE expeditions are delivered in some of the best locations in the UK. Chosen for their suitability to fulfil the requirements of the award as well as ease of access by car and public transport.

Open exped map

We are here for you.

Before you even book your place, we are here to help and answer any questions. Just drop an email to the office, or give us a call, we are here to help you.

Joining an Open Expedition programme may mean coming away on your own and this can be a scary prospect. This is why we want to make the process as enjoyable and as easy as possible. As soon as your place is booked you'll receive an email with all of your joining instructions along with a helpful booklet - 'DofE Guidance for Participants, Parents and Guardians'.

Group of girls sitting by their stoves cooking dunner on a DofE expedition.

Team smiling and looking happy holding company flag after completing their DofE expedition.

Take a look at what other people say...

The Adventure Element have taken the workload out of our DofE provision. Their expertise and knowledge makes the whole process really easy to handle. The instructors are great, and their support for our young people is superb. The tracking devices along with the high quality equipment provided makes our lives easier and gives parents a real peace of mind.

Andy Field
Teacher of Computing/DT/Maths - Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Penrith

Your support, knowledge and guidance was fantastic and I definitely would not have survived the week without it! I’m sure it’s not always easy to deal with grumpy and over tired adults, but your time and dedication is really appreciated!

Christie McLennan
Open Expedition Participant - Duke of Edinburgh's Award

I would highly recommend using The Adventure Element to complete your DofE award. One of the best experiences I have ever been a part of; it’s just a shame it had to come to an end. Thank you all.

Lizzie Anderson
DofE Open Expedition Participant - Duke of Edinburgh's Award

Your Adventure in Safe Hands

Safe and enjoyable outdoor experiences

Looking for Advice or Guidance?

Search our knowledgebase. Helping you be prepared for your DofE expedition or Challenge Event.

Visit our Blog Read our FAQ's

Posted 12th October

Choosing the Right Compass for Your Duke of Edinburgh Award Expedition

Category: DofE Advice and Guidance

When you’re preparing for your Duke of Edinburgh (DofE) expedition, one of the most important pieces of kit you’ll carry is your compass. Whether you’re navigating the rolling hills of the Yorkshire Dales, the wilds of Snowdonia, or the moors of the Peak District, a reliable compass can make the difference between confidently finding your next checkpoint and wandering in circles! With so many types available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming... but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s a simple guide to help you pick the perfect compass for your DofE journey.

Posted 17th June

Surviving the Scorch: Preparing for a Heat Wave on Your DofE Expedition

Category: DofE Advice and Guidance

In the UK we don't often need to consider heat related issues on a DofE expedition, but failure to be prepared could result in illness and very uncomfortable experience.