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.
About the centre
Bovey Tracey, Devon
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
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