Gold DofE Expeditions in the UK

Cost: £675

Gold DofE expeditions with Pringle's Peaks offer the highest level of challenge and personal development on your Duke of Edinburgh Award journey. Suitable for those in Year 12 and above, these advanced Gold Duke of Edinburgh expeditions will see you planning, trekking and camping in some of the UK's most stunning Wild Country areas. Our Gold DofE expedition training puts safety, structure, and team building at the heart of every adventure.

Participants build leadership, self-confidence, and endurance, supported by our deeply experienced staff and robust safety policies.

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Gold Duke of Edinburgh expedition details

Age

Year 12+

Challenge

Intermediate

Skills Developed

Advanced navigation, campcraft, team leadership, endurance and self-management, risk assessment, time management

 

Practice Expedition

 5-days

Qualifying Expedition

5-day

Features

Two supervisors on each expedition, plus minimum 1:12 supervision ratio

 

 

 

Our Gold DofE Expedition Programme

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1. 5-Day Training and Practice Expedition

Your Gold DofE journey with Pringle's Peaks starts with an immersive five-day programme designed to thoroughly prepare you for the challenge ahead. The first two days and overnight stay centre on intensive Gold DofE expedition training, including:

  • Advanced navigation skills, featuring low visibility navigation
  • Route planning and expedition logistics
  • Refresher training in key areas, ensuring complete readiness

After this, participants undertake a three-day, three-night practice expedition, fully supervised by our expert instructors, where you can put your new knowledge into practice and experience wild camping in the UK's most dramatic landscapes.

group of hikers with backpacks sitting on a fence overlooking lush green hills and a cloudy sky enjoying nature and adventure on a seven day trip

2. 5-Day Assessed Expedition

For the assessed phase, participants begin with a travel and preparation day, followed by a four-day, three-night qualifying expedition. This segment is overseen and evaluated by qualified mountain leaders.

You'll tackle varied terrain, work as a team, and demonstrate the endurance, navigation, and leadership skills you've developed. Our experienced supervisors and robust safety policies underpin every stage of your journey.

What sets Pringle's Peaks apart is our commitment to both quality and personal development. Safety is paramount in all our Gold DofE expeditions, and every participant can expect thorough support from our fully qualified, DBS-checked, first-aid trained team, along with all necessary emergency planning and weather contingency systems in place. On every expedition there will always be two supervisors at all times. In addition to that we work off a minimum of 1:12 ratio for all of our expeditions.

 

 

 

 

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Equipment Included

To make your Gold DofE expeditions in the UK as straightforward as possible, Pringle's Peaks provides:

  • Tents suitable for expedition use
  • Maps and compasses for advanced navigation training
  • Trangia stoves and gas for group cooking

What's not included

You'll need to bring your own personal kit, which follows the official DofE list. Transport to and from expedition start points isn't included, but can be arranged via the school or by parents. If you're struggling with gear, get in touch as we may be able to help. Download our KIT LIST or ask for advice on what to pack to be fully prepared for your adventure.

Click here to download the kit list

 

 

Questions about our Gold DofE Expeditions

What is the Gold DofE expedition?

Gold DofE expeditions are the highest level in the Duke of Edinburgh Award, featuring advanced training and a multi-day assessed trek in wild UK settings.

Where do Gold DofE expeditions usually take place?

Gold DofE expeditions with Pringle’s Peaks take place in UK Wild Country areas, such as the Lake District, Snowdonia, and Dartmoor.

Do participants need to complete Bronze and Silver before Gold?

Participants don’t have to complete Bronze and Silver DofE before starting Gold, but previous experience is recommended for confidence and skills.

What makes the Gold DofE expedition special?

Gold DofE is advanced, offering leadership, endurance, and navigation skills, with a focus on personal growth, safety, and tackling challenging terrains.

What equipment is provided for Gold DofE expeditions?

Pringle’s Peaks supplies tents, maps, compasses, stoves, and gas. Participants bring personal kit from the official DofE equipment list.

How is safety managed during Gold DofE expeditions?

Safety is paramount. Each expedition has two supervisors, a 1:12 supervision ratio, qualified leaders, first aid, and robust emergency procedures.