Our members across the United Kingdom and Ireland work together to share research, promote information exchange, and advocate for sustainable best practices.
Our diverse membership includes researchers, facilitators, service providers, and practitioners, all dedicated to delivering enriching and inclusive outdoor experiences—a commitment we take great pride in nurturing and expanding.
Action Plan
2025 - 2028
Check out the NEW ORN Action Plan that sets out the overarching framework for the activities of the Outdoor Recreation Network (ORN) for the period April 2025 – March 2028.
What’s New
Professor Kate Dashper Appointed Chair of ORN Academic Research Group
We are delighted to welcome Professor Kate Dashper as the new Chair of the ORN Academic Research Group. Kate brings extensive expertise in responsible outdoor recreation, equality, diversity and inclusion, and has led research with organisations including Natural England, the Ministry of Defence and the Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority. An internationally recognised academic with over 100 publications, she is passionate about strengthening links between academia and the sector, and we look forward to her leadership in shaping the next phase of the ARG.
Bird Aware Solent wins ORN Success Award 'Best Project for Protecting Nature & Responsible Access'
Awarded for its evidence-led, partnership approach to protecting sensitive coastal habitats while enabling responsible access for millions of visitors.
ORN is now planning the 2026/27 webinar programme, and we’d really value your input to ensure it continues to reflect member needs and sector priorities.
We’ve developed a longlist of proposed training topics and are asking members and stakeholders to take a few minutes to rank their top five priorities and suggest themes or speakers they’d like to see included
Meet the new ORN Co-Chair - Paddy Harrop
Read the full announcement and watch a short introduction from Paddy
Climate Resilience in Outdoor Recreation Webinar
Post Event Resources from latest ARG meeting
The Oxford Flood Alleviation Scheme – Building for a Resilient and Thriving Future
ORN Awards 2025
Nominations are now live for the ORN Success Awards 2025.
Events
Check out the ORN event listings to discover upcoming events and catch-up on past event resources.
Become a Member
Find out more about becoming a member of ORN. The Network currently offers three levels of membership to suit organisations at national, regional and local level.