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The River Reader

Anytime is Fun Time!

4:28 PM on Tuesday 30th July 2024
By: Emile Faucon
Three participants surrounding a table, taking part in crafts.
Photo by Harley Sprought

Our participants have the chance to dive into a range of ‘anytime’ activities during their free time throughout the week. From building sandcastles with the Camp Chiefs to playing retro games in Daisy’s Gaming Shed, there truly is something for everyone!

Retro Rewind: A Journey Through Gaming's Golden Eras

Two participants playing video games on a big screen.
Gotta Go Fast! Photo by Emily Mackwood

One of our most popular anytime activities is the cow-themed Daisy’s Gaming Shed, a nostalgic haven for gamers. Here, you can enjoy classic arcade games and old console favourites. Tristan from 1st Great Berry, staying on Mississippi subcamp, shared his enthusiasm: “I loved the old games and was excited to discover what the gaming shed had to offer. Playing Sonic the Hedgehog and FIFA '96 was a blast!”

Oliver, a Sea Scout from 1st Burnham on Crouch, also staying on the Mississippi subcamp, appreciated the opportunity to try games he hadn’t played before, noting, “It’s great to experience how games come in big physical boxes, rather than just downloading them on a phone.” Alongside the consoles, the shed features three retro arcade machines, including Pac-Man and Space Invaders, perfect for friendly competition.

Craft Extravaganza: Unleash Your Creativity at the Village Marquee!

The inside of the craft barn, with lots of young people sitting at tables crafting.
Photo by Leah Gainor

Not exactly a barn, but more of a marquee, our Craft Barn offers a range of crafts for everyone to try. From paracord bracelets to pyrography and pizza box board games, there's something for all creative Scouts and Guides. Emily from 2nd Guernsey Scouts, staying on Mississippi subcamp, expressed her excitement: “I love the crafts in the marquee. I especially enjoyed peg decorating and plan to come back later to decorate a memory book.” Make sure to visit and meet the friendly team crafting away!

Sun, Sand, and Smiles: Relax and Play at Our Onsite Beach!

A young person buried in the sand on the EIJ 2024 beach.
Naptime! Photo by Harley Sprought

Our onsite beach and giant deck chair are ideal for soaking up the sun while building sandcastles. Camp Chiefs Karen and Paul spent their morning today meeting and greeting participants and joining in on sandcastle fun.

Poppy and Ava from Great Yeldham Scouts, staying on Danube subcamp, shared their enthusiasm: “We love the beach as it adds a unique touch, letting us bury people and build the biggest sandcastles possible! The deck chair is a bit tricky to get into, but it's so comfortable!”

The Snug: Challenge and Chill Zone for Ultimate Fun and Games

Participants playing boardgames
King to Bishop's Stortford - Photo by Harley Sprought

The Snug is the perfect place to relax with friends while enjoying a competitive game of Skeleton Jenga, Scout Dobble, or building a Lego skyscraper. Whether you're into Twister, Connect 4, or Giant Dominos, there’s an activity to challenge your leaders or friends and have a blast.

Action and Relaxation: Enjoy Our Sports Field and Café!

Our Sports Field and Café offer the perfect blend of action and relaxation. The field is great for a kickabout or running around. Many participants have had a blast making the most of the beautiful weather to play football and explore the various sports on offer.

The café provides a great spot to cool off and enjoy an ice-cold beverage and snack. Located between the Amazon and Seine subcamps, it’s the ideal place to put your feet up and relax between activities. 

There is never a boring moment at EIJ 2024! Explore these various zones throughout the day around the village, behind the main stage or down on the sports field.