For those who want to go beyond the basics, this course focuses on developing a single craft or skill in depth. With several hours each day dedicated to your chosen subject, you’ll leave with real progress and confidence in your abilities. All of this takes place alongside comfortable camping and excellent food.
Your stay begins with a warm welcome and orientation to the woodland camp, allowing time to settle in before focusing on your chosen skill. Morning sessions are dedicated to learning and practising core techniques such as creating fire without modern tools, shaping and preparing pottery for pit-firing, or identifying and harvesting edible fungi in season. The expert instructor guides you through each step to ensure safe and effective practice.
Afternoons offer the chance to refine your techniques, experiment with more advanced methods, or explore related skills that complement your main focus. Evening meals are prepared over an open fire using fresh, local ingredients, providing nourishment and time to relax. Optional evening activities might include night walks to experience the woodland after dark or wildlife spotting. If you extend the course, additional days allow you to deepen your expertise or broaden your learning into other areas.
The course takes place within Dartmoor National Park near the village of Chagford, an area known for its expansive moorland, ancient woodlands, and diverse wildlife. The camp is set in a sheltered clearing which provides a calm base while still offering a real connection to Dartmoor’s wild landscape.
Nearby, participants can access moorland trails and several wild swimming spots to enjoy during breaks or after the day’s activities. Mobile signal is generally reliable for calls and messaging, allowing you to stay connected without interrupting the peaceful environment.
Accommodation includes spacious bell tents fitted with camp beds, carpets, and hot water bottles for warmth and comfort. Sleeping bags or duvets and pillows are required for personal bedding. Compost toilets and a fire-heated shower are available, although the latter requires advance notice.
The camp environment combines rustic charm with practical comforts, ensuring restful nights and a supportive base for extended learning in nature.
No previous experience is required, though those with some knowledge can choose to work at a more advanced level. All specialist tools and materials for your chosen skill are provided.
Bring practical outdoor clothing, sturdy footwear, and a sleeping bag or duvet. The walk into camp is short, and accessible routes are available on request.
This course is led by a highly skilled instructor who brings extensive local and international bushcraft expertise to your learning experience. Situated within Dartmoor National Park, the setting provides an authentic wilderness environment ideal for deep skill development.
Sustainable practices are central to the course, including locally sourced fresh food and reclaimed equipment to reduce environmental impact. This approach ensures participants not only gain practical skills but also connect meaningfully with nature and community in a respectful, relaxed atmosphere.
About the centre
Westcott Woods, Chagford
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
