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Spend a full day gaining practical experience in deer butchery and game preparation within a 35-acre ancient woodland on the Kent Downs. The course demonstrates how deer are ethically selected and dispatched, but participants do not shoot animals themselves. Instead, the focus is on hands-on skills in skinning, butchering, and cooking, alongside techniques for rabbit and pigeon. Emphasis is placed on using as much of the animal as possible, giving a clear understanding of where meat comes from.
The day begins with an introduction to ethical game selection, stalking methods, and how to check animals for disease. While the process of dispatching is explained and demonstrated, participants do not carry out any shooting themselves. The practical elements start with skinning a deer, with detailed instruction on preserving both the hide and meat, always reinforcing respect for the animal.
Following this, the group moves on to butchery sessions, learning how to identify cuts and maximise meat yield. Preparation of smaller game, such as rabbit and pigeon, adds further variety to the skills taught.
The day concludes with cooking a selection of the prepared meat over an open fire, allowing participants to taste their work. Extra activities, such as beginning the tanning of hides and using bones for practical purposes, highlight how to make use of the whole animal.
Nestled in the Kent Downs, a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, the private woodland offers a rich environment to learn traditional bushcraft. The site is alive with wildlife, from deer to owls and buzzards, and surrounded by native trees and wildflowers.
Easily accessible between Canterbury and Ashford, the woodland is a short walk from the meeting point. All sessions are run at the outdoor camp, set up for practical, hands-on activities.
No prior bushcraft or outdoor knowledge is required, as all techniques are explained and demonstrated with full guidance.
Participants need to be comfortable walking over uneven terrain and confident handling knives and simple tools. Sturdy outdoor clothing and footwear are necessary for safety and comfort.
Courses have been running since 2011, combining expert instruction with a supportive learning environment. Every session ensures participants gain confidence by practising skills themselves.
The woodland setting provides a varied and authentic backdrop, connecting participants with the British countryside while teaching ethical, practical bushcraft techniques rooted in tradition.
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 experience is required to attend this course. All participants are guided through every stage of the process with hands-on instruction, making it suitable for beginners.
The course is structured to build confidence gradually. From understanding ethical culling to basic butchery techniques, you will be supported by experienced instructors throughout the day.
Yes, participants will work directly with a deer, learning to skin, butcher, and prepare meat under careful supervision. Every step is demonstrated before you try it yourself.
All animals used on the course are selected to benefit the population and are ethically sourced. No stags or pregnant females are used, ensuring responsible handling at all times.
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.
All participants are given clear instruction on handling knives and other tools safely. Demonstrations precede any hands-on work to reduce risk of accidents.
For sections covering firearms in stalking, safety is paramount. Guidelines, supervision, and controlled environments ensure all activities are conducted securely and responsibly.
Participants are encouraged to bring a bag to take home venison steaks or other meat prepared during the day. This allows you to continue practising at home.
Additionally, you will gain practical knowledge about skinning, butchery, and cooking techniques that can be applied to other game. You may also take home notes and guidance provided in the joining pack.
Most courses are aimed at adults, but children aged 12 and over may join, provided they are accompanied by a responsible adult.
Only one adult may accompany one child on a course. The adult is responsible for the safety and behaviour of the under-18 participant throughout the session. This ensures a safe and manageable learning environment for everyone.
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
Westwell, Kent
Operated by Jack Raven Bushcraft, a partner of adventuro.
