Our Half-Day Introductory 4×4 Course is a good starting point for those with no previous experience of off-road driving. During this morning session we help you to progress to a level where you will have the skills to successfully negotiate the usual obstacles faced off-road in a standard vehicle.

The instructors take a friendly step by step approach quickly moving from the classroom, where basic off road driving techniques have been explained – to the site, where walking the course first is an important starting point. Assessing the route on foot, prior to driving is vital when taking a 4×4 vehicle over undulating terrain, especially as visibility is restricted once you are in the driving seat.

Its then into the vehicles, (most of which are standard but there is an opportunity to try something special!) to learn the different techniques required to drive off road. Hands on experience is gained in high and low ratio gearbox.

The introductory circuits gradually increase in difficulty and excitement, from muddy, undulating terrain to deep gullies and sideslopes. Your own personal instructor will be alongside as you put your new skills to work. A practical demonstration and discussion takes place to highlight the use of the differential lock and 4wd systems. Drivers will then be fully aware of vehicle limitations and what to look for when negotiating off road conditions.

Its then back to the classroom for a debriefing and a well-deserved buffet lunch. This course will give you the basic experience to progress on to more advanced levels. Attendees wishing to stay for the rest of the day, therefore upgrading to the Advanced Course are welcome to discuss this possibility with one of your instructors during the morning.

A certificate of attendance will be presented at the end of your course.

Our Advanced off-road driving courses are suitable for the ambitious beginners, those with some off-roading experience or those who have their own 4×4 vehicles and want to discover the full potential of off-roading.

This full day course starts with our three hour Introductory course, including a short talk on basic driving techniques. A practice using high and low ratio gearbox and selecting and deselecting the differential lock follows, allowing everyone to get used to our variety of vehicles. We then break for lunch.

Into the vehicles again where you will learn the more advanced techniques to negotiate obstacles that will test the vehicle limits and your driving abilities. This will include a practice of failed hill reverse techniques, negotiating cross ruts, steep inclines and declines, muddy ground and weather permitting, water. The ground is very demanding but the techniques learnt during the course will give you the ability to drive 4×4 vehicles off road safely and confidently. You will finish up on some of our black runs such as The Gully, Twister and Screamer.

Throughout the day points can be awarded, with a prize for the top achiever. Its then back to the classroom for a de-briefing, refreshments, prize giving and a well-earned rest.

You will be awarded a certificate to acknowledge your successful completion of our course, having reached the level of expertise seen at typical club competitions. Attendees who have completed a full day Advanced 4×4 Course, are entitled to come back and attend the Extreme Course.

This testing course is for the driver who has already successfully completed our Advanced 4×4 day andwants the confidence to tackle the most severe of terrain. During this intensive full day’s course you willlearn how to resolve most of the common offroading situations and dilemmas likely to be faced when going it alone or during competition.

This course is best tackled in wet weather to challenge the driver’s ability and lateral thinking, to safely negotiate obstacles that are beyond the vehicle’s capabilities. You will work as a team, either with the instructor or with a maximum of one other participant.

The day begins with a warm up on our harder circuits to refresh the material covered on our Advanced 4×4 Course. To include a challenging session on some of our most severe terrain, whilst following the instructor in a separate vehicle. A chance to catch a breather and a buffet lunch will be closely followed by some hands on experience with commonly used recovery equipment and accessories, including bridging ladders, ropes and high lift jacks.

We then move on to winching, explaining the different types, how to signal, rig and use them safely. During this practical session you will learn how to use ground anchors, snatch blocks, shackles and strops effectively and test your mental agility and endurance.

Other topics covered include vehicle preparation, competition standards and makeshift repairs. Vehicles used will be modified to suit the severity of the terrain likely to be negotiated.

Clients booking this course are advised to bring a change of clothing! (Although, coveralls can be supplied to minimise the mess).

Course Prices start at £40 per person.

Call 01432 264 807 or email enquiries@ultimate-activitycompany.co.uk.

There are no restrictions however any special requirements or health concerns must be discussed at the time of booking.