Snow before you go

With the European snow season rapidly approaching it’s good to know that conditions remain perfect in The Snow Centre at Hemel Hempstead with fresh snow falling regularly on well- groomed slopes.

Anyone planning a winter sports trip – whether it’s a weekend, a week or a season – would do well to factor in a session or two at Hemel Hempstead before they leave the UK. Limber up, get the right muscles working again and hone your technique so you’re mountain-ready when you leave.

The closest real snow to London, The Snow Centre is ideally situated just off the M25 and offers an impressive 160m main slope combined with the UK’s largest indoor lesson slope.

What’s more it offers the best instruction this side of the Alps with a team of around 120 qualified instructors providing first class tuition at all levels. Uniquely, the Snow Centre has been recognised as the UK’s only Centre of Excellence by BASI (British Association of Snow Sport Instructors).

Pete ‘Silver’ Gillespie, who heads up the Snowsports School has been a professional snowsports instructor and coach for more than 22 years. He says, ‘All our instructors are continually assessed and appraised to ensure we maintain the highest possible standards. Our lessons range from beginner classes for adults and children as young as four right up to courses for new instructors and include private lessons and even video assessment if required.’

Pete added, ‘We have just replaced all our skis, boards and boots with brand new kit in readiness for the winter and you can hire this seasons snow clothes if you don’t have your own. Whatever level you’re at we’ll help improve both your technique and your confidence in a safe, friendly environment.’

Lessons at The Snow Centre start at £26 for 4-16 year olds and £45 for an adult. Book a family recreational session for £69 for a two adults/two children. These costs reduce significantly if you join The Snow Centre as a member.

Visit thesnowcentre.com to book.