8 adults sit on a life raft holding their paddles in the air on a lake

FuturesFest 2025: A day of adventure on the shores of Windermere

5 minutes ago
5 min read

What a day we had in the Lake District last week for our first-ever FuturesFest - and it truly was one to remember! Set against the stunning backdrop of lake Windermere, the event brought together some of our incredible funding partners and Greggs colleagues for a full day of outdoor adventure, celebration, and a touch of unexpected weather drama courtesy of Storm Amy. 

Hosted at the brilliant YMCA Lakeside, the day kicked off with a series of adrenaline-fuelled activities. From zip-lining through the treetops and abseiling down rugged rock faces to launching eggs from catapults and building rafts that (miraculously) stayed afloat. The weather held out just long enough for everyone to enjoy the full programme, and the laughter and screams echoing across the lake was proof that not everyone loves getting wet or abseiling down a cliff face.   

Greggs food displayed on a tiered afternoon tea tray, surrounded by a high class table setting.
2 woman wearing helmets laugh together
a group of adults in outdoor clothing smile at the camera behind a wooden catapult
an adult wearing a helmet on a zip line
a female instructor helps a woman abseil down a cliff

YMCA Lakeside not only provided a stunning venue but also showcased their modern, purpose-built facilities designed to give young people and adults a taste of real adventure. During the evening event, we were proud to present YMCA Lakeside with a £20,000 grant from the Greggs Foundation, helping to support their mission to expand access to outdoor experiences for local young people. It was a moment that perfectly captured the spirit of FuturesFest - celebrating partnerships that help us feed brighter futures. 

The festivities continued at Ambleside Rugby Club, where a marquee had been set up for an evening of music, food, and dancing. Thanks to Red Bull, guests were treated to a jaw-dropping motorcycle stunt show before the atmosphere quickly shifted into full festival mode as a live band took to the stage, filling the marquee with energy and dancing well into the night. 

a group of people wearing hats smile at the camera in a marquee
revellers dance in a marquee wearing hats

But no Lake District event would be complete without a little weather drama. Enter Storm Amy, who swept in just in time to add a splash of water to the evening. As the rain poured, the marquee provided the perfect shelter - becoming a bit of a lifeboat as the water levels rose. Most guests wisely abandoned their camping plans, but spirits remained high, and the storm only added to the unforgettable nature of the event. 

We’re incredibly grateful to our generous sponsors—Capri Sun, Greencore, Quorn Foods, The Coca-Cola Company, innocent drinks, Red Bull, Turbo Chef, Warrens Group, and Toshiba - whose support made FuturesFest possible.  

FuturesFest was more than just a fun day out - it was a celebration of the partnerships that make the work of the Greggs Foundation possible and our shared commitment to making a difference. We hope these photos highlights help you relive the fun, the laughter, and some slightly soggy memories of a truly special day.