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Gain the confidence and skills to enjoy the outdoors with this introductory bushcraft course. Aimed at beginners, it covers the foundations of outdoor living, from fire lighting and shelter building to safe tool use and foraging basics. Expect a practical, hands-on day in nature where you’ll build knowledge, resilience, and appreciation for the natural world.
The course begins with an introduction to essential fire lighting techniques. You’ll learn how to use firesteel and natural tinder, practising step by step to create and maintain fire safely. Once confident with the basics, the focus moves to shelter construction, where you’ll be shown how to build a protective structure using a tarpaulin, ensuring it is both stable and practical for outdoor conditions.
After a short break, the session continues with an overview of foraging basics. This will give you the tools to start identifying common edible plants and understanding the importance of safety when foraging in the UK countryside. The afternoon rounds off with instruction on tool use. You’ll be guided through safe handling techniques for knives and saws, giving you the chance to try out simple woodcraft projects and further develop your confidence in bushcraft skills.
The course takes place at Parke National Trust near Bovey Tracey in Devon, set within the gateway to Dartmoor National Park. The estate provides a mix of woodland, riverside, and open green spaces, offering an ideal environment for learning bushcraft in a safe but natural setting.
Being close to Bovey Tracey, the site is easily accessible by road and public transport, with nearby amenities making it a convenient base for both locals and visitors to the area. The backdrop of Dartmoor adds to the atmosphere, giving participants a genuine experience of outdoor living in one of Devon’s most scenic areas.
This session is designed for beginners, so no prior bushcraft knowledge is required. All tools and materials are provided, and expert instructors will be on hand to guide you at every stage.
Participants should be prepared to spend the day outdoors and bring comfortable clothing suited to the weather, as well as a packed lunch and water. A willingness to get hands-on and try new skills will help you make the most of the course.
The team behind this course is passionate about helping people reconnect with nature through practical skills and meaningful experiences. With a wealth of expertise, they ensure every session is both educational and enjoyable, giving you the confidence to continue building on what you’ve learned.
Their mission is to make bushcraft accessible to all, whether you’re an individual, a family, or a complete beginner. Each course is designed to promote self-reliance, environmental awareness, and an authentic connection with the outdoors.
No previous experience is needed, as this course is designed specifically for beginners. The instructors will guide you step by step through each skill, from lighting your first fire to constructing a simple shelter. Every activity is taught at a manageable pace, making it suitable for anyone who wants to build confidence in the outdoors.
If you already have some knowledge, the session still provides an excellent refresher and a chance to refine your techniques under expert guidance. The course aims to make everyone feel comfortable, regardless of background, so you’ll leave with skills you can use in your own outdoor adventures.
You’ll need to wear outdoor clothing appropriate for the weather, including sturdy footwear, waterproof layers, and something warm if conditions are cool. A packed lunch and water bottle are essential to keep you going throughout the day.
Optional items like a notebook and pen can be helpful for taking down tips and techniques as you learn. Everything else, including specialist tools and materials, will be provided for you, so there’s no need to worry about buying extra gear.
Yes, children aged 14+ are welcome as long as they are accompanied by a responsible adult. The course is designed to be engaging for families, offering a shared experience where adults and children can learn together. Many families find it a great way to spend time outside while gaining useful skills.
Younger participants may need extra support with some activities, particularly tool use, but instructors will ensure safety and adapt tasks to suit different ages. It’s a great opportunity to encourage children to appreciate the outdoors in a safe and structured environment.
The day is not strenuous and is accessible to most fitness levels. Activities such as fire lighting, basic shelter building, and light tool use are physically engaging but do not require high levels of strength or endurance.
That said, participants should be comfortable spending a full day outdoors, often standing or moving around on uneven ground. If you have any specific concerns about physical requirements, it’s best to mention them beforehand so adjustments can be made where possible.
Lunch is not provided, so you’ll need to bring your own packed lunch, snacks, and water to last the day. Having enough food and drink ensures you’ll be comfortable and focused during the activities.
Hot drinks such as tea and coffee will be available during breaks, giving you the chance to warm up and relax between sessions. Sharing a refreshment break often adds to the friendly, communal atmosphere of the course.
The course runs in most weather conditions, as learning to adapt to the elements is an important part of bushcraft. Rain, wind, or cold simply become part of the learning environment, and instructors are skilled at making the best of whatever nature provides.
However, in cases of extreme or unsafe weather, the organisers may adjust the session plan or reschedule for another date. Participants will always be kept informed, and safety remains the top priority.
Safety is a key focus throughout the course. You’ll be introduced to knives and saws in a controlled, supervised way, with clear instruction on how to handle them responsibly. Instructors will demonstrate each skill before you try it yourself, ensuring you feel confident before using the tools independently.
Younger or less experienced participants will be given extra guidance, and no one is pressured to attempt anything they don’t feel ready for. The aim is to build practical skills safely and gradually, encouraging respect for the tools rather than rushing the learning process.
About the centre
Parke National Trust, Bovey Tracey, Devon TQ13 9JQ
Operated by Devon and Cornwall Bushcraft, a partner of adventuro.
