Behçet’s UK Friends & Family Day 2026
Saturday 20 June 2026
The Anderton Centre, Chorley, Lancashire
Registration for Behçet’s UK Friends and Family Day 2026 opens at 11am on Friday 6 March 2026
2026 will be our ninth year holding a Behçet’s Friends and Family Day, and this year we will be heading to the Anderton Centre in Lancashire on Saturday 20 June 2026.
The centre is under an hour’s drive from Manchester, Liverpool, and Lancaster. Set in four acres of woodland with access to Lower Rivington Reservoir, the largest expanse of water between the Midlands and the Lake District, it provides the perfect setting for a full day of outdoor fun.
Whether you want to take part or spectate – the choice is yours – but either way it is a wonderful chance for members of Behçet’s UK to get together for a FREE fun day out with their family and/or friends. It gives children and adults alike the chance to try some fun activities, make new friends and meet other families affected by Behçet’s.
We’ll be offering a fun and varied range of activities on both land and water, including archery, bushcraft, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and more. No previous experience is needed, as all activities are suitable for all ability levels, including beginners. We’ve also included options for participants with additional mobility needs who are keen to try something new.
We have exclusive access to the centre’s conference room, with a balcony overlooking the site – the perfect spot to relax, take a break, and recharge whenever you need. We also provide lunch and refreshments throughout the day, so all you need to do is show up and enjoy every moment!
Our Frequently Asked Questions section below should hopefully answer any questions you may have, but please don’t hesitate to get in touch by email at info@behcetsuk.org or call us on 0345 130 7328 if there is anything else you would like to know.
We’re looking forward to a fantastic day and hope you can join us!
Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS THE BEHÇET’S UK FAMILY DAY?
Each year, Behçet’s UK hosts a Friends and Family Day at a different activity centre across the UK. This free, fun-filled, and relaxed event brings members, their friends, and families together to enjoy a day of shared experiences. Whether you want to try something new, build confidence, or simply enjoy watching others take part, there’s something for everyone.
We have always received positive feedback about the day, with guests highlighting how welcoming and relaxed it feels. Children, young people, and adults particularly value the chance to meet others affected by Behçet’s – often for the first time in person – and feel understood in a way that is rare in everyday life.
For families, children and young people with Behçet’s can see that they are just like other young people. Meanwhile, parents with Behçet’s – who may usually miss out on activities – love being able to join in with their children and participate in whatever way they can.
You don’t need to have children to attend – everyone is welcome. Bring a friend, a family member, or just yourself. In previous years, we have welcomed guests from 18 months to 70+, so whether you want to join in or simply watch and cheer everyone on, it’s a great day for all.
WHERE IS THE BEHÇET’S UK FRIENDS & FAMILY DAY?
The 2026 Friends and Family Day will be held at the Anderton Centre
Anderton Centre, New Rd, Chorley, Lancashire PR6 9HG
WHEN IS THE BEHÇET’S UK FRIENDS & FAMILY DAY?
Saturday 20 June 2026, 09:30 – 17:00
WHAT IS THE COST
Our Friends and Family Day is completely FREE for Behçet’s UK members and their family or friends. However, to secure your ticket(s), we require a refundable deposit of £10 per adult, which will be returned within 10 working days of attending the event.
I’M NOT A MEMBER OF BEHÇET’S UK. CAN I STILL ATTEND?
Unfortunately, the Behçet’s UK Friends and Family Day is for Behçet’s UK members and their family/friends only. Each group/family that attends must have at least one Behçet’s UK member.
Click here to join Behçet’s UK today
HOW AND WHEN CAN I RESERVE A PLACE?
Tickets will be available from 11 am on Friday 6 March 2026.
When booking opens, simply click the blue button at the top of this page labelled “Click here to book your tickets”. This will take you to our order form, where you’ll pay your refundable deposit to secure your place.
Places are limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Once all tickets have been reserved, we encourage you to join our waiting list, as cancellations will be reallocated, and if there’s enough interest, we may also be able to increase numbers (subject to availability at the centre).
WHAT INFORMATION DO I NEED TO RESERVE MY PLACE?
You can reserve up to 6 participant places per Behçet’s UK membership, plus additional spectator places. You will need the following information to complete all the registration details for each adult/child attending:
- first and last name
- email address (if different to yours)
- date of birth
- emergency contact name and number (if the ticket holder’s emergency contact isn’t attending the event)
- any dietary requirements
- details of any health or medical conditions, educational needs, or accessibility requirements that Behçet’s UK or the activity centre should be aware of
WHY ARE YOU CHARGING A REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT FOR A FREE EVENT?
Although the Friends and Family Day is free for Behçet’s UK members and their family or friends, places are limited. To help ensure that groups who reserve tickets attend, and to discourage no-shows, we ask for a refundable deposit.
This helps us make the day more enjoyable for everyone, reduces disappointment for members who might otherwise miss out, and ensures valuable Behçet’s UK resources are used effectively.
We understand that, due to the nature of Behçet’s, some cancellations are unavoidable. You will receive a full refund if you cancel by 18 May 2026. After this date, we will refund your deposit if we can fill your place(s). Please let us know as early as possible if you need to cancel, and we will do our best to reallocate your place(s) so your deposit can be returned.
ALL THE PLACES ARE BOOKED. DO YOU HAVE A WAITING LIST?
Yes. Once all tickets have been reserved, we encourage you to join our waiting list, as cancellations are often reallocated. If there’s enough interest, we may also be able to increase numbers (subject to availability at the centre).
Complete the waiting list form, and we’ll be in touch if any places become available. At that stage, you will be asked to pay your £10 refundable deposit per adult to confirm your place(s).
WHAT IF I NEED TO CANCEL?
If you are unable to attend, please email us at info@behcetsuk.org or call 0345 130 7328 as soon as possible so we can try to fill your place(s).
If you cancel on or before 18 May 2026, your deposit will be refunded in full. If you cancel after 18 May 2026, we will refund your deposit if we can successfully fill your place(s). We will do our utmost to reallocate any places so your deposit can be returned.
Please allow up to 10 working days for refunds to process.
WHAT IS THE PLAN FOR THE DAY?
We have exclusive use of the conference room, which will be our base for the day. This is where we will have our breaks and lunch.
| 09:30 – 10:30 | Arrival and meet for refreshments |
| 10:30 – 12:00 | Activity 1 |
| 12:00 – 13:15 | Break including buffet lunch |
| 13:15 – 14:45 | Activity 2 |
| 14:45 – 15:15 | Break and refreshments |
| 15:15 – 16:45 | Activity 3 |
| 16:45 – 17:00 | Goodbyes |
WHAT ACTIVITIES WILL THERE BE?
There will be three activity sessions throughout the day, with three activities available in each session. You can choose your activities when you arrive on a first-come, first-served basis, as each activity has a limited number of places to maintain safe group-to-instructor ratios
| Activity 1 | TBC | TBC | TBC |
| Activity 2 | TBC | TBC | TBC |
| Activity 3 | TBC | TBC | TBC |
See WHAT DO THESE ACTIVITIES INVOLVE? for more information.
Activities are suitable for children aged 6 and over, as well as adults, and no previous experience is necessary. All sessions are led by fully qualified and experienced instructors, and the centre provides safety equipment and wetsuits where needed.
Please note that the Activity Centre reserves the right to cancel, alter, or delay any activity if circumstances beyond its control arise – for example, due to illness, weather, or any situation that could put participants or staff at risk.
IS THERE A MINIMUM AGE FOR TAKING PART?
Children must be aged 6 or over to take part in activities.
Children under 6 are welcome to join us for the day, but they cannot participate in the activities and must be supervised by an adult at all times. For land-based activities, you are welcome to parent swap. Please reserve a ‘Spectator ticket’ for children too young to take part.
NOTE: The minimum age is a guideline only. Participation depends on whether safety equipment fits correctly and whether children can use it safely. The Activity Centre will not allow participation if the equipment does not fit properly.
All activities are led by qualified instructors, but we request that any child aged 16 and under is supervised at each activity by a parent or carer, whether taking part or spectating.
CAN I CHOOSE MY ACTIVITIES BEFORE THE DAY?
Activities can be chosen on the day on a first-come, first-served basis, as each activity has a limited number of places to maintain safe group-to-instructor ratios.
CAN I JUST SPECTATE?
Yes. You are very welcome to join us for the day, meet others, or cheer on your friends/ family who are taking part. Please book a ‘Spectator’ ticket so we know you’re coming and can cater for you.
WHAT IF I DON’T WANT TO TAKE PART IN A PARTICULAR ACTIVITY?
You’ll have the chance to choose your preferred activities on the day (subject to availability). If there’s an activity you’re unsure about, feel free to give it a try – if it’s not for you, you can always opt to spectate. The most important thing is that you have fun!
WHAT DO THESE ACTIVITIES INVOLVE?
To be confirmed…
I HAVE A DISABILITY OR MOBILITY ISSUES: CAN I STILL TAKE PART?
Some activities can be adapted to accommodate those less abled and we have tried to ensure there are different activities available throughout the day to accommodate different levels of mobility. If you need assistance from another person, we ask that they also register for the event.
If you have any particular concerns, please email us at info@behcetsuk.org or call us on 0345 130 7328 to discuss your disability or mobility, along with any other information you feel we should be made aware of, so we can consult with the centre to make your visit more enjoyable.
CAN I BRING MY DOG?
Unfortunately, no dogs are allowed on site except for assistance dogs.
WHERE CAN I TAKE A BREAK?
You’re welcome to take a break in the conference room, which is reserved exclusively for Behçet’s UK Friends and Family Day guests and is available throughout the day whenever you need it. This indoor space offers a place to rest or step away from activities, and if the weather allows, you can also make use of the balcony overlooking the site.
WHAT FOOD AND/OR REFRESHMENTS WILL THERE BE?
A cold buffet lunch will be provided, so please let us know about any dietary requirements or allergies when booking your ticket(s). Tea, coffee, squash, and snacks will be available throughout the day. We also recommend bringing a refillable water bottle with you to stay hydrated during the day.
WILL IT GO AHEAD IF IT’S RAINING?
Yes. As the weather is notoriously unpredictable in the UK, please keep an eye on the weather forecast and bring wet-weather gear if it looks a little soggy. A large part of the day’s activity will take place outside, so please come prepared, and we’ll still have a great day!
WHAT SHALL I WEAR/BRING?
Wear comfortable clothing appropriate for the weather, which you won’t mind if it gets wet or dirty, with changes and spare footwear in case it does. Please remember you will be outside for the majority of your day.
We suggest layering loose comfortable clothing, (not jeans) and/or shorts and t-shirt if the weather is warm. Below is an idea of what to wear, but is not an exhaustive list and refer to the details below for the individual activity guidance:
- Shirt / T-shirt (wicking/synthetic is best for quick drying)
- Fleece/jumper
- Tracksuit bottoms / trousers (not jeans)
- Closed toe footwear – trainers / walking shoes
- Waterproof coat/top & trousers (if rain forecast)
- Towel
- Sun cream & sun hat
Long hair must be tied back and loose jewellery removed.
If it is a sunny day, please ensure you apply and pack plenty of sun cream of a high factor, a water bottle, as well as a sun hat. You will be able to refill your water bottle on site.
Watersports
For all the water activities where you are likely to get wet, the centre will offer a wetsuit. If you have your own wetsuit, you can bring that with you. It’s recommended to wear a wicking top/rash vest underneath if you have one and a swimming costume/shorts for comfort. Please avoid wearing cotton t-shirts underneath your wetsuit, as these just stay wet and make you cold.
Please wear closed-toe footwear suitable for getting wet e.g. old trainers or neoprene shoes. Flip flops and Crocs are unsuitable and may get lost in the water.
You are likely to get wet, so please bring along a towel, a change of clothes and a plastic bag to put your wet belongings into.
Changing facilities and showers are available.
In sunny weather, remember your sunhat and sun cream.
Land activities
All land activities require closed-toe footwear with good grip, such as trainers.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that you can easily move around in. Joggers, leggings and outdoor trousers are all excellent, please no jeans.
For archery, long-sleeved tops work well to help protect your arm from the string (arm bracers are provided for protection).
If the forecast is rainy or cold, please bring a waterproof jacket (and trousers, if you have them) to keep you warm and dry.
In sunny weather, remember your sunhat and sun cream.
ARE THERE ANY STORAGE FACILITIES TO LEAVE THINGS ON SITE?
You are welcome to leave your possessions in the breakout room, but items are left at your own risk – please note the room will not be locked and may be unoccupied during activities. There are lockers available on site if you’d prefer to use these.
Please don’t leave valuables unattended.
HOW DO I GET THERE?
Google/Apple Maps – search for “The Anderton Centre”
Satnav use postcode “PR6 9HG”
If driving, the site is 10 to 15 minutes from Junction 6 (Horwich/Bolton) and Junction 8 (Chorley) on the M61 or 20 minutes from Junction 27 (Standish/Wigan) or Junction 28 (Leyland) on the M6 motorway.
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By rail: The nearest train stations are Chorley (3 miles North), Adlington (1.5 miles West), and Horwich Parkway (4 miles South).
By bus: The nearest bus stop is Grimeford Lane in Adlington, a 20-minute walk away.
WHERE CAN I PARK?
There is a free car park on site.
I’D LIKE TO BOOK OVERNIGHT ACCOMMODATION. WHERE CAN I STAY?
There are guest houses and hotels, including budget chains, in the area. We are unable to offer any recommendations as we don’t have sufficient knowledge of the local area, but if you do need any help finding accommodation, please get in touch.
WILL THERE BE PHOTOGRAPHS?
We will be taking photographs throughout the event, and by attendin,g you are consenting for your image to be used by Behçet’s UK to promote our future work and events in printed or electronic form (for example, the website and social media).
If you do not wish to have your photograph taken and/or used, please inform us by phoning 0345 130 7328 or emailing us at info@behcetsuk.org. Alternatively, you can inform Behçet’s UK on the day of the event.
We will not include the personal details of any person in a photograph, whether in printed or electronic form, without gaining specific consent.
We will store the photographs securely for up to 5 years. Your consent will automatically expire after this period, which means we will no longer create new promotional material, whether in printed or electronic form, without obtaining your consent again. Any promotional material created within the consensual period will remain in circulation until the end of its promotional life unless deemed inappropriate to do so.
Please note that websites can be seen worldwide and not just in the UK where UK law applies.
You are entitled to withdraw your consent at any time in writing or by emailing info@behcetsuk.org. Upon receiving your withdrawal of consent, your image will not be used in future publications and removed from our website and social media accounts; however, your image may continue to appear in materials (printed and electronic) already in circulation.