Work with natural timber to create unique items that blend craftsmanship with creativity. Whether it’s carving, whittling, or assembling a collaborative project, these sessions offer a rewarding experience that reconnects participants with traditional skills and the raw beauty of wood. We can facilitate experiences for up to 200 people, depending on the chosen location. Group sizes shown relate to each session per tutor, and larger groups may be split into concurrent or parallel sessions.
Step into the world of traditional craftsmanship with award-winning hedgelayer Paul Matthews in this hands-on Rustic Walking Stick Workshop. Using sustainably sourced wood and time-honoured techniques, you’ll learn how to select, shape, and personalise your very own walking stick.
Whether you’re looking for a practical companion on country walks or a unique piece of rural heritage to treasure, this workshop blends skill-building, creativity, and a deep connection to nature. No prior experience is required – just curiosity, enthusiasm, and a love for working with natural materials.
12 people per session.
All outdoor locations.
2.5 hrs - 5 hrs.
🌿 Practical Skill & Creativity; 🤝 Collaboration & Connection; 🌳 Mindful Escape.
Discover the ancient art of pyrography with artist Ruth Wheeler (as seen on Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh). Using heated tools, you’ll explore how to create patterns, textures, and shading on wood, drawing inspiration from the natural surroundings of the Birtley Estate. Whether you choose a short taster or a longer session, Ruth will guide you step by step as you develop skills and confidence in this meditative craft. Suitable for complete beginners, these workshops provide a relaxing, creative escape. Leave with your own personalised wooden artwork and the calming satisfaction of learning a unique, traditional skill.
12 per session
All locations.
1 hr - 3 hrs.
🎨 Creative Expression; 🌿 Mindful Focus; 🤝 Team Connection.
Explore the timeless art of relief carving with sculptor Ruth Wheeler in the inspiring grounds of the Birtley Estate. Begin with a sketch inspired by nature, then learn how to safely use carving tools to create flowing patterns, organic textures, or bold designs. Ruth’s supportive teaching makes this workshop suitable for beginners and those wanting to develop their skills. Working step by step, you’ll bring your design to life by carving into wood to achieve a striking three-dimensional effect. Leave with a beautiful hand-carved piece that reflects your creativity and a deeper appreciation for traditional craftsmanship.
20 per session
Birtley Woodland Art Space.
2 hrs - 2.5 hrs.
🎨 Creative Expression; 🌿 Mindful Focus; 🤝 Shared Experience.
Step into creativity and connection as you craft your own beautiful willow flower crown. Using hand-woven willow bases, you’ll decorate with a selection of fresh and dried flowers, foliage, seed heads, and grasses, along with other natural adornments. Depending on location, the workshop can also include a guided foraging element, allowing participants to collect seasonal flowers and foliage to personalise their crowns.
This light-hearted session is suitable for all abilities and encourages individuality, teamwork, and playfulness. Perfect for corporate groups, it offers a joyful break from routine and a chance to reconnect with nature. Everyone leaves with a stunning handmade crown.
12 - 30 per session / per tutor
All locations
1 hr - 1.5 hrs.
🤝 Builds teamwork; 🌸 Nature-inspired escape; 🌿Encourages creativity and self-expression.
Celebrate the seasons with this hands-on Seasonal Wreath Workshop, where participants create beautiful wreaths using locally coppiced willow, along with fresh and dried materials foraged as part of a woodland management programme. Guided step by step, you’ll learn techniques for shaping, securing, and decorating your wreath with foliage, seed heads, and other seasonal adornments.
Perfect for corporate groups, this workshop encourages creativity, teamwork, and mindful engagement with nature. Each participant leaves with a unique, handcrafted wreath – a festive or seasonal piece to display and a lasting reminder of shared creativity.
12 - 30 per session / tutor.
All locations.
1.5 hr (sml); 2.5 hr (medium/large).
🌿 Creativity & Focus; 🤝 Teamwork & Collaboration; 🌱 Mindful Experience.
Experience the tactile joy of traditional willow weaving in this hands-on workshop. Using a pre-drilled wooden base and natural willow, you’ll learn classic weaving techniques to create a small, personalised basket. This beginner-friendly session combines creativity, focus, and the satisfaction of making something entirely by hand.
Perfect for corporate teams, the workshop encourages collaboration, mindfulness, and a playful break from the everyday. No experience is required – just curiosity and a willingness to get hands-on. Each participant leaves with a finished basket, a sense of achievement, and a tangible reminder of shared creativity.
12 per session / per tutor
All locations
1 hr; 2.5 hrs - 5 hrs sessions.
🌿 Creativity & Focus; 🤝 Teamwork & Collaboration; 🌱 Mindful Experience.
Over two days, your team will create a Rustic Gate from Sweet Chestnut coppiced onsite, guided by experienced woodland craftsmen. Teams can follow a recommended design or bring their own.
Day One focuses on design, measuring, cleaving Chestnut poles using a froe, beadle, and cleaving break, and peeling the timber.
Day Two covers shaping, thinning, assembling the gate, applying the final finish, and guidance on fitting and care.
This immersive workshop blends heritage woodworking, practical skills, and hands-on problem-solving in a beautiful woodland setting, fostering teamwork, creativity, and connection to nature.
6 - 8 per session / per tutor.
All outdoor locations.
2 days.
🪚 Practical Skills; 🤝 Team Collaboration; 🌳 Creative Problem-Solving.