Abernethy Outdoor Centre
Our Mission
GLM were engaged to undertake a feasibility study to add a further 40-50 bed spaces, as well as a meeting room and staff accommodation.
The brief
The Abernethy Centre is a high-quality residential outdoor activity centre located in the tranquil village of Nethy Bridge, in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park. As the centre continued to grow in popularity, Abernethy Trust required additional accommodation and facilities to support demand from schools, church groups and families. The initial brief focused on a standalone accommodation block, providing a further 40–50 bed spaces, meeting rooms and staff accommodation.
Alongside this, the Trust also wanted to diversify the accommodation available at the centre by introducing self-catered cabins, creating more flexible options for visitors and supporting the long-term sustainability of the site.
Our approach
Following careful discussion, investigation and analysis, GLM advised that a large-scale extension would offer a more successful response than a standalone building.
The proposed extension was designed to work with the existing centre, forming a sheltered courtyard and improving the relationship between the buildings. Its linear form complements the scale of the existing accommodation while introducing a bold, contemporary addition that reflects the ambition of Abernethy Trust.
GLM also developed proposals and secured planning consent for self-catered cabins within the activity centre grounds. The approach carefully considered the wider site, existing facilities and the sensitive Cairngorms National Park setting.
The outcome
Together, the extension and cabins create a stronger and more flexible accommodation offer for Abernethy Trust.
The proposals support the continued growth of The Abernethy Centre, increasing capacity for residential groups while creating new self-catering options for visitors. They also help the Trust diversify income, enhance the visitor experience and continue investing in the future of outdoor learning, activity holidays and adventure in the Cairngorms.
The result is a carefully considered development that allows the centre to grow sustainably while remaining rooted in its landscape, purpose and community.
