IN the past few years a Northleach activity centre has become the hub for climbing and camping in the Cotswolds – now it is hoping to go one step further and become a Mecca for cyclists.


When Tom Williams took over Far Peak Climbing and Camping in October 2012, it was only open three days a week and didn’t attract much attention.


Today, the activity centre is flourishing, with hundreds of climbers scaling its walls each week and up to 150 tents pitched up over the summer months.


After investing in Gloucestershire’s highest freestanding climbing tower and building three ‘shepherds huts’ for classy camping, Tom has more big plans for the centre.


He wants to turn Far Peak into the “go to place for cyclists”, with a web of long and short cycling routes around the Cotswolds stemming from the campsite.


The idea will be kicked off next week when the centre receives a delivery of 60 brand new bicycles ready to be rented out to campers and non-campers alike.


On top of that, a new café will be built replete with deli counter and roof terrace.


“We’re really excited about the changes this summer,” Tom said. “What we’d really like is for the café to be run and managed by children from the area as a community project, but that’s just an idea at the moment.”


Having so many people through the doors is good for business but it is also good for the local economy.


Tom regularly sends campers into Northleach to buy food and enjoy the pubs and restaurants.


“I think it’s good for tourism when we all help each other out like that,” Tom said. “But the thing that I’m most proud of is that we see all of the local groups like the scouts and nearby schools come in – it’s a real community atmosphere.”


Around 60 kids come to Far Peak every week to participate in weekly clubs and their academy scheme.


Tom, who employs 10 full and part-time staff, said: “Luckily I’ve got a really good team behind me; they’re the backbone of this place.


“I love coming to work every day and I love the challenge of developing the business.”