Helping young people reach their full potential
The idea for The Great Escape was conceived in the foothills of the Himalayas in Nepal. Mark Willis, the founder and owner, spent much of his time trekking, rafting and exploring the amazing natural surroundings of his childhood home, as well as benefiting from the experimental learning. These experiences form the cornerstone of everything he believes in and does today.
Mark realised his dream of The Great Escape in 2009 after spending 12 years as a sports coach, working with both children and adults. The Great Escape now has its permanent base in the beautiful Shropshire countryside at Great Hagley where Mark and his wife, Alex, live with their four children. Great Hagley is a 120 acre estate that lends itself to objective based outdoor adventure, from climbing activities, traversing across the high gorge, orienteering and night walks to rafting and team building challenges. There is also the new Black Hawk Zip Line which is 520m long with 360 panoramic views and the Tiger Challenge Course. It is a truly rural retreat, surrounded by miles of walking, forestry and some of the best inland views England has to offer.
Mark, Alex & their team run school & youth camps throughout the year, offering a truly personal service with exclusive use of the site – over 95% of those who experience The Great Escape are returning clients.
As well as school camps, Mark & The Great Escape team organise fun team building days for corporate groups, family get-togethers, stag & hen events and welcome visitors to come and enjoy the Zip Line and Challenge Course .
Mark and Alex look forward to welcoming you to Great Hagley.
