An introductory 4x4 driving course designed for those with little or no previous off-road experience. The session combines practical driving on varied terrain with classroom discussions and includes lunch and refreshments. Participants can upgrade to the advanced course on the day if they wish to continue their training.
The day kicks off meeting your instructors, followed by a short safety briefing. Then once onsite you'll be shown the techniques to adopt as they drive you around just the first section. From then on, the instructors will be in the passenger seat with all driving completed by you. In order to remain safe you'll be expected to walk each area prior to driving to view the obstacles that will be un-sighted from the driving seat. This will give you the first important rule when driving off-road; get up close with the off-road environment and learn how to read the ground like a pro. This is a key step, will help you spot the best lines to take and potential hazards before you get behind the wheel. You’ll then hop into one of the 4x4 vehicles ready to put theory into practice on a variety of off-road scenarios, obstacles & terrain.
Expect to tackle muddy tracks, gentle slopes and tricky gullies as you build confidence handling the vehicle’s controls. The course challenges gradually increases to keep you engaged and learning, with plenty of time to repeat manoeuvres and perfect your skills. You’ll also get a hands-on demonstration of differential locks and four-wheel drive systems so you know exactly when and how to use them. After working up an appetite, you’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch with tea or coffee to recharge and swap stories with fellow drivers. For those eager to push further, there’s an option to upgrade to the advanced course and continue the adventure into the afternoon.
The course takes place at a dedicated off-road training site near Whitecliff Quarry, Newland Street, Coleford, Gloucestershire, GL16 8NB. The site offers varied terrain including muddy tracks, gentle inclines and declines, gullies and side slopes within a controlled environment.
The location provides easy road access, parking and facilities for breaks and instruction, set in a rural area with natural surroundings ideal for off-road driving practice.
A full driving licence is required. The course suits those with little or no prior off-road driving experience. Participants should have good mobility to comfortably assess the terrain on foot before driving. The minimum age is 17.
Training is provided by accredited BORDA trainers with over 25 years’ experience in off-road driving, competitions and safari championships. Their expertise ensures compliance with health and safety regulations and a high standard of instruction focused on practical skills and safety awareness. The centre delivers professional training tailored to individuals, owner drivers or corporate groups.
The site is regularly inspected and accredited, offering diverse terrain suited to effective hands-on learning. The course includes lunch and refreshments, with options for exclusive one-to-one training and progression to more advanced levels. This approach ensures flexible, thorough training that meets a wide range of needs without relying on DSA driving instructor status.
One spectator per participant is welcome to visit the off-road site and observe the session. They may bring their own vehicle to use as a base, which is helpful in case of wet or cooler weather. However, the off-road area does not have any undercover facilities, so spectators should be prepared to spend time outdoors and dress appropriately for the conditions.
Since the environment is natural and open, it’s important for spectators to wear suitable clothing and footwear to stay comfortable. Weather can change quickly, so waterproof and warm layers are recommended during colder months, while sun protection and hydration are essential in warmer weather.
Passengers are generally not permitted on standard group courses for safety and instructional reasons. However, on exclusive one-to-one sessions, a single rear seat passenger may be allowed. There is an additional charge for passengers on these private sessions, so it’s important to enquire about this option when booking.
This policy ensures that attention remains focused on the driver’s learning experience and safety protocols. Allowing passengers only on private courses helps maintain controlled conditions without distractions or risks to others during the session.
It’s important to dress according to the weather conditions on the day of your session. Warm, waterproof clothing is advised during cold or wet weather to keep comfortable throughout the outdoor activities. In warmer months, bringing sun cream and a water bottle is recommended to protect yourself and stay hydrated.
Regardless of the season, sturdy and supportive footwear is essential because the terrain can be uneven, slippery, and muddy in places. Wearing appropriate shoes will help maintain grip and stability while on the off-road site, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
Lunch and hot drinks such as tea and coffee are provided for participants during their course. Spectators or additional guests should bring their own lunch if they plan to stay onsite throughout the day. Alternatively, extra lunches can be pre-ordered at a small cost, but this must be arranged with at least five days’ notice to accommodate dietary requirements or preferences.
Having food provided for participants ensures they remain energised and focused during the session without the need to leave the site. Spectators and companions should plan accordingly if they wish to eat onsite.
Pets are not permitted at the off-road site. This policy helps to maintain safety and hygiene standards for all participants and staff and prevents any potential distractions or risks during the sessions.
If you plan to attend with a pet, it will be necessary to arrange alternative care for them on the day of your visit.
Finish times vary depending on the number of participants and the specific course format. For half-day sessions, the aim is generally to conclude around midday to early afternoon, with lunch breaks factored in. Full-day courses typically finish between 3:30 pm and 3:45 pm, though some private one-to-one courses may continue slightly later, up to around 4:30 pm.
These timings are approximate because group sizes and progression can affect the schedule. Attendees should be prepared for some flexibility with start and finish times.
The off-road sessions use a fleet of Land Rovers, including Short Wheelbase Defenders and Long Wheelbase Discoveries. These vehicles are well-suited to handle varied terrain and provide a robust learning environment for participants.
The choice of vehicles ensures participants gain experience with commonly used off-road models, enhancing the relevance and practical skills taught during the sessions.
There are no specific height or weight limits because everyone’s build is different, but participants must be able to sit comfortably behind the wheel of a Land Rover Defender or Discovery. This means they should be able to safely reach the pedals and controls without difficulty and must not struggle to operate the vehicle due to their size.
Additionally, participants need to be able to get in and out of a manual vehicle independently, without needing assistance. If anyone has concerns about this, they are encouraged to contact the team before booking. Emergency contact details are collected on the indemnity form signed upon arrival, and participants receive a copy of this form along with joining instructions ahead of their session.
About the centre
Whitecliff Quarry, Newland Street, Coleford, Gloucestershire, GL16 8NB
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
Operated by Whitecliff Off Road Centre, a partner of adventuro.
Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, United Kingdom
From £249
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