Frequently Asked Questions
if you have a question that is not answered below, you can contact us via the contact page or by sending an Email directly to enquiries@nwringingcourse.uk.
What do I need to bring with me?
Borwick Hall is an Outdoor Activity Centre, and the rooms are basic and are provided with basic bedding, but you may wish to bring an extra pillow for more comfort. You will need to bring your own towel, and toiletries these are not provided on site.
Some of the rooms have shared toilet and shower facilities you may wish to bring a dressing gown or similar. Some areas of the site are not well lit at night so either a small pocket torch or a torch app on your phone will be useful. If you choose the self-catering option you will need to bring a tea towel with you, these are not provided, however all cooking equipment and crockery is provided by the college.
Can I choose more than one topic?
Applicants are offered the opportunity to indicate a second choice of topic, on their application forms. There is, however, no guarantee that a second choice can be offered if the first choice topic is full. If you are unsure if you meet the requirements for a topic, please seek advice from your tower captain or ringing tutor before applying.
Can I move topics once a place has been allocated?
Given the number of applicants for each topic, we are unable to move people between topics once the places have been allocated. Please read the topic descriptions carefully and ensure you meet the experience required before applying.
Can I come as a student for part of the course?
The course is designed to run over the whole four days to give maximum opportunity to progress; therefore, we do not offer part courses to students.
Can I come as a helper for part of the course?
We are grateful to everyone that volunteers to help with the course. We do prefer that helpers stay for all the practical sessions to provide continuity to their allocated group. Please indicate on your application form if you are unable to attend all the practical sessions, as this will allow us to arrange a substitute helper to ensure your group is supported.
Which towers will I be ringing at?
We use several different towers in the area surrounding Borwick Hall and try to balance distance travelled across the weekend for the different groups. The logistics involved and allowing for the possibility of last-minute changes means we are unable to print the list of towers before the course, and these will be in the Welcome Pack when you arrive.
Will my group tutor contact me before the course?
Our tutors are unpaid volunteers who have generously offered their time to teach on the course. Most of our tutors will contact their students prior to the course to introduce themselves and understand what you hope to achieve during the weekend. Please do not worry if they do not contact you, or if you miss the call. There will be plenty of opportunity to get to know each other at the “Getting To Know Your Group” session at the beginning of the course.
Which group will I be helping with?
Due to last minute changes, it is not always possible to circulate group information before the course. Where possible, we give the group tutors a list of proposed helpers, and they might choose to contact you if they have any specific requirements of their group.
Is Borwick Hall accessible by public transport?
The nearest train station is Carnforth, and taxis are available. Once places are allocated you will be sent details of local taxi companies. You may also wish to arrange lifts with others that you know are going to be on the course.
Is there car parking at Borwick Hall?
Yes, car parking is available at Borwick Hall. Further details on parking will be made available to successful applicants closer to the course.
I have an electric vehicle can, I charge my car at Borwick Hall?
Unfortunately there are no EV charge points available at Borwick Hall. The closest charge points can be found on Zap Map.
Will I need to drive during the course?
The course includes practical sessions at local towers and we ask that lifts are arranged within your tutor group at the beginning of the course. We ask that all passengers contribute to fuel costs of those who are driving.
Will I need to provide my own lunches?
Your tutorial group will visit local towers on Friday and Saturday, with tutors or helpers recommending a suitable venue for lunch which is often a nearby pub. This is not covered in the course fees, and you are welcome to make your arrangements if you prefer. Please also note that lunch on Thursday and Sunday at Borwick Hall will need to be preordered on the booking form.
Are you able to provide for my dietary requirements?
If you have a food allergy or specific dietary requirement, please notify us via the questionnaire which will be sent once places have been allocated and this information will be passed onto the catering team.
Are there tea and coffee making facilities in the rooms?
There are no tea and coffee making facilities in the rooms however tea, coffee and milk are available in the communal areas during the day and night.
Will there be a bar?
Yes, there will be a bar however, it will have a limited range of drinks available, you are welcome to bring your own preferred tipple with you.