SIMON LAING
consultant & Adventure Guide
I'm a proud Geordie, former marine biologist and outdoor recreation specialist with a passion for helping people connect with places that matter.
After founding and growing one of the North East's leading adventure businesses, I now support organisations across the UK through Northern Latitude, a consultancy focused on regenerative tourism, outdoor recreation and place activation.
Alongside my consultancy work, I continue to design and lead small-group outdoor experiences across North East England. From wildlife encounters and coastal adventures to immersive blue space experiences, I believe tourism can be a powerful force for good when it deepens connections with nature, supports local communities and encourages people to care for the places they visit.
I work with destinations, businesses, local authorities and community organisations to develop experiences, programmes and projects that strengthen communities, improve access to the outdoors and create lasting value for people, places and nature. My approach combines strategic thinking with practical experience gained through designing, delivering and operating outdoor experiences in the real world.
By continuing to work directly with participants and visitors, I ensure my consultancy remains grounded in the realities of customer experience, operations, sustainability and product development.
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Paddle UK Trainer & Course Provider
Paddle UK SUP Open Water Coach
Paddle UK Canoe & Kayak Coach
Paddle UK SUP Coastal Leader
Paddle UK Sea Kayak Leader
NEAS First Aid at Work (72 hours)
Paddle UK Safeguarding Children & Vulnerable Adults
Coasteering Guide
BSAC Snorkelling Instructor
WiSe Trained Wildlife Guide
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BSc (Hons) Marine Biology, Newcastle University
MSc Coastal Zone Management, Ulster University
Level 3 Award in Education and Training
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Multiple tourism award wins with Cullercoats Bike & Kayak
First to market with urban kayaking tours on the Tyne
First to market with sea swim and sauna experiences in NE England
Leading on a project to reimagine the River Tyne as a space for recreation
SONJA BaeR
Adventure Guide & DESIGNER
I'm originally from southern Germany but have called the North East coast home for more than a decade. My love of water began through competitive Canoe Slalom, and since then I've spent much of my life exploring rivers, lakes and coastlines through paddlesports, swimming and outdoor adventure.
Today I lead kayak, paddleboard and swim touring experiences, helping people build confidence on the water while developing a deeper connection with the places they visit. I'm particularly passionate about creating welcoming and memorable experiences that encourage people to slow down, explore and engage with nature.
Alongside my work as an outdoor guide, I am also a qualified graphic designer and illustrator. Creativity plays an important role in everything I do, from developing visitor experiences and visual storytelling to creating hand-drawn artwork inspired by the landscapes and wildlife of the North East.
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Paddle UK SUP Coastal Leader
Paddle UK Paddlesports Leader
Paddle UK Coastal Navigation and Tidal Planning
ITC Outdoor First Aid
Paddle UK Safeguarding Children & Vulnerable Adults
BSAC Snorkelling Instructor
Coasteering Guide