History

Built in 1859, Grenville House started life as the ‘British Seaman’s Boys’ Home’; A charity founded by William Gibbs ran as an orphanage. After 120 years social changes saw the need for this purpose diminish, leading to its temporary closure in 1988.

Two years later it re-opened as the Nautical Venture Centre continuing its work with young people, particularly local schools. Then in 1995 the name finally became established as Grenville House Outdoor Education Centre.

Major ongoing investment in the buildings, the facilities and the development of Outdoor activities has continued the centres growth. This has led to Grenville House building a core base of schools, Colleges and Community groups coming to use the Centre annually for outdoor educational experiences.

Initially the Centre developed as an associate member of the Devon Discovery group of outdoor centres forming close links with both Devon County Council Education Department and Plymouth City Council.

Devon and Torbay Councils recognise Grenville House as a leading provider of outdoor education in Devon and consequently we are one of only a handful of establishments recommended to Devon and Torbay schools.