About us

Around 6,000 children from all over Kirklees arrive at Cliffe House each year to experience a residential stay varying in length from one to four nights or an educational day visit with our outdoor learning team. They leave having learned a lot about the environment - and themselves - with memories that last a lifetime.

We believe every young person should experience the world beyond the classroom as part of a broad and balanced curriculum.

Here at Cliffe House we provide a blend of both educational and adventure focussed activities, delivered by experienced and qualified staff.

Immersing young people in an active and engaging environment encourages them to learn whilst having fun together. Our inclusive ethos ensures young people feel confident to push their own boundaries; increasing personal development with an improved awareness of self, of others, and the natural world around them.

You can find us at:
Cliffe House, 140 Lane Head Road, Shepley, Huddersfield, HD8 8DB
cliffehouse@kirklees.gov.uk
01484 416 416

Develop

Confidence
Resilience
Self-belief
Independence
Responsibility
Cooperation
Social skills

Experience

New challenges
The natural world
Working with others
Learning outside the classroom
Rural setting

Support

An enquiring mind
Experimental learning
A safe and supportive environment
National curriculum
Class cohesion

History

Cliffe House was built for James Senior and his family in 1888/9. James required a house which showed off his wealth to the area. The Senior family owned a brewery which had been founded by James' father, Seth Senior. The Sovereign brewery was founded in 1829 and he lived in a former cottage which now forms part of the Sovereign Inn, Shepley. A natural spring supplied soft water near the cottage and it was this fresh water source that inspired him to begin brewing beer.

It is said that Seth borrowed one sovereign, a gold coin worth £1, to purchase his first ingredients to begin brewing and so called his beers Sovereign Ales.

Friends of Cliffe House

The Friends are a group of people who want to promote Cliffe House as a user friendly and great resource for the local area. They include members who have either worked at the centre, enjoyed a residential visit in the past, have an allotment on site or who just love what the house and grounds have to offer. The friends are a very active group that run fund raising events such as; garden parties and murder mystery evenings and carry out work days on-site to assist with grounds maintenance. The group are always looking for enthusiastic people to join. If you are a doer, a giver, an organiser, a helper, and ideas person or can give a bit of time each month then please get in touch with Cliffe House.

For details on joining please contact fochshepley@gmail.com.