Thriving Charity

Open Country began in 1990 as a ‘temporary’ project; 34 years later Open Country has developed into a small charity with huge aims! On an average week we run up to 26 countryside activities, catering for a range of abilities.

Our head office is based in Harrogate; we have a second hub in Wakefield based at Thornes Park (funded thanks to the National Lottery Community Fund) and we’re working towards opening our third hub in Teesside in 2025.

Over the years we have been recognised by many awards, including the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service.

An easy going winter walk around Dove Stone Reservoir in the Peak District

Access For All 

We have produced a range of information to encourage access for all in the countryside. We offer Countryside Directories for People with Disabilities covering Yorkshire, County Durham, Lancashire and Teesside. We have also produced Breakfree Trails for the Harrogate, Leeds, Wakefield, Wharfedale and York areas.

The Advisory Groups

The Advisory Groups (in Harrogate and Wakefield) comprise service user representatives from each activity group, volunteers, trustees, staff and other interested parties. The groups meet three times a year and provide a chance to feedback on activities we have run, as well as helping decide which direction the charity should be going in.

Trustees 

We have a board of seven trustees who are responsible to the community, The Charity Commission and Companies House. Between them they have a wide range of experience, including finance, business and marketing.

Patrons

Open Country is delighted to have two high-profile patrons, Lord Willis of Knaresborough & Harrogate and Air Commodore Simon Bostock. Paralympian David Stone MBE is our Cycling Ambassador. Their input is invaluable in all aspects of Open Country’s work.