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This 1 day axe course is designed for anyone wanting to gain confidence and skill in using an axe, whether you’re new to bushcraft or looking to improve existing abilities. The course focuses on practical, hands-on learning so you leave with repeatable skills that you can apply safely in the outdoors. Throughout the day, you’ll handle a variety of axes, learning techniques for felling, splitting, carving, and maintaining your tools.
The day begins with a thorough introduction to axe safety, maintenance, and the different types of axes and hatchets available. You’ll learn how to select the right axe for different tasks and understand design features that affect performance.
Hands-on practice follows, starting with basic techniques for splitting logs down to kindling, cross-cutting firewood, and carving simple items such as a spatula and a woodland mallet. You’ll also make feather sticks and learn sharpening methods to keep your axe in top condition.
Throughout the course, the instructor will provide personalised guidance, ensuring your techniques are safe and effective. By the end of the day, you’ll feel confident handling an axe in a range of practical bushcraft scenarios and gain a deeper understanding of the tool’s versatility.
The course is based in Westwell, Kent, set within a private 35-acre ancient broadleaf woodland on the Kent Downs. The site is rich in native trees, wildflowers, and wildlife including deer, owls, woodpeckers, and various small mammals, offering a beautiful and immersive outdoor learning environment.
Westwell is approximately 50 miles from central London and is accessible by both road and rail. There is a short walk from the meeting point to the woodland camp, with luggage transported via 4×4 to make your arrival smooth and convenient.
No previous bushcraft or axe experience is required. The course is suitable for complete beginners as well as those wishing to improve their existing skills.
Participants should be reasonably fit and able to walk short distances over uneven woodland terrain. Appropriate clothing and footwear for outdoor activity are recommended.
The centre is dedicated to hands-on bushcraft learning in a safe and supportive environment. All instructors are experienced practitioners, ensuring that each participant receives personal attention and guidance tailored to their skill level.
Courses take place in a private, wildlife-rich woodland in Kent, giving participants access to a diverse and engaging outdoor setting. The approach is practical, repeatable, and designed so that skills learned can be confidently applied in any outdoor situation.
Courses take place in Westwell, Kent, which is easily accessible by road from the M20 and M2. For those travelling by train, Ashford International station is just 5 miles away, with a high-speed connection from St. Pancras taking around 40 minutes. Charing station is also close, approximately 4 miles from the site, and taxis can be arranged in advance if needed.
The woodland setting is slightly off the beaten track, providing a quiet environment for bushcraft learning while remaining within convenient reach of local transport links. Once you arrive, the walk to the woodland camp is about 15 minutes at a gentle pace, with the final stretch uphill. Your gear will be transported most of the way in a 4×4, so only light carrying is required.
No prior bushcraft or axe experience is required to join the course. The session is designed for complete beginners as well as those looking to improve their existing skills. You will be guided through every technique step by step in a safe, hands-on environment.
Experienced participants will also benefit from the variety of axes provided and personalised instruction. The course allows you to refine your technique, try different tools, and gain confidence in a range of practical bushcraft tasks.
Participants should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate outdoor clothing that can get dirty. Sturdy footwear, such as hiking boots, is essential for safety and stability when working with axes and moving around the woodland.
Gloves, a waterproof jacket, and a hat are recommended depending on the weather. All tools and protective equipment required for the course are provided, so you do not need to bring your own axe.
Pets and alcohol are not allowed on courses. The woodland setting includes livestock nearby, and there is regular use of knives, axes, and other tools, which makes bringing animals unsafe. Some participants also prefer a dog-free environment, which is taken into account.
Courses aim to maintain a safe, focused environment for all attendees, so alcohol and pets are not permitted. This ensures everyone can concentrate on learning and enjoying the bushcraft activities.
The woodland is carefully managed to protect its natural environment. Conservation and sustainable woodland management are integral to all courses, and participants are encouraged to learn about natural history and responsible practices as part of the experience.
Course sizes are kept small, usually a maximum of 8 people, to minimise environmental impact and ensure a more personalised learning experience. Every activity is designed to respect the woodland while providing meaningful bushcraft education.
The course involves standing, chopping, splitting, and some light walking over uneven woodland terrain. Participants should be reasonably fit and able to carry out basic physical activity safely.
All techniques are demonstrated and guided carefully, with an emphasis on safe posture and movement. You can progress at your own pace, and rest breaks are built into the day to avoid fatigue.
After you’ve made your booking, the centre will send a comprehensive joining pack 6 to 8 weeks before the session. This pack contains essential information about the meeting point, what to bring, clothing and equipment recommendations, and any other instructions needed to fully participate in the course.
It is important to bring this joining pack with you on the day, as it includes guidance that ensures you are properly prepared, helping the session run smoothly and safely from start to finish.
About the centre
Dunn Street Farm, Dunn Street, Westwell, Ashford, Kent TN25 4NJ
Operated by Jack Raven Bushcraft, a partner of adventuro.
