Bushcraft

What is Bushcraft?
‘Bushcraft’ is the art of living. It is the collection of skills and infinite knowledge that our ancestors had which enabled them to live comfortably as part of the natural world. All indigenous cultures had (and some still do) a deep rooted connection with nature, in the words of Chief Seattle they knew [...]

What is Bushcraft?
‘Bushcraft’ is the art of living. It is the collection of skills and infinite knowledge that our ancestors had which enabled them to live comfortably as part of the natural world. All indigenous cultures had (and some still do) a deep rooted connection with nature, in the words of Chief Seattle they knew that “Man did not weave the web of life, he is merely a strand in it. Whatever he does to the web he does to himself.” In the artificial stresses of our modern world it is easy to forget the essence of living. ‘Bushcraft’ seems to be the modern world’s way of remembering the old ways, and reconnecting with our ancient heritage.

Much of the recent growing interest in ‘Bushcraft’ in the UK is due to the excellent television programmes and books of Ray Mears. His work fascinates and inspires many to find their way back to the woods.

Nature Awareness
The essence of bushcraft is ‘knowing’. Developing a deep knowledge and understanding of the natural world is key to being able to sustainably use natural resources- whether it is for eating, medicine, finding water, making shelter, lighting fires or craftwork. Skills include; ecology, species identification, tracks and signs, folklore and medicinal uses of plants, wildlife stalking and watching.

Outdoor Living Skills
The core skills of surviving and living in the natural world is meeting the basic needs of; water, food, shelter and warmth. Developing skills that make living outside easier without using modern technologies is empowering and builds confidence. Skills include; finding, filtering and purifying drinking water, foraging, preparing and cooking wildfoods, fire lighting methods and management, shelter and bivouacs building and design.

Natural Craft
Our ancestors lived comfortably within the natural world, they were skilled craftsmen, artists and musicians. There are many crafts and activities that use natural material that would be a part of indigenous cultures and many modern equivalents. Skills include; carving and green woodworking, natural cordage, weaving, basket making, bow and weapon making, flint knapping, natural dyes and many more!

Bushcraft Courses presented by Birchwood Learning & Belladonna Bushcraft

‘Bread & Butter’ – 1 day course
Join Belladonna Bushcraft and Birchwood Learning in the woods to discover the bread and butter of outdoor living skills. The day is designed as a comfortable introduction to living life outdoors for anyone aged 14 + (under 18s must be accompanied by a participating adult) who’d ever thought it’d be nice to spend some time in the woods learning a few useful skills.

Forthcoming dates:

 

 

‘Tea & Cake’ – 1 day course
You are invited to join Belladonna Bushcraft and Birchwood Learning for a woodland tea party with a difference. Develop and use your outdoor living skills to prepare afternoon tea and celebrate outdoors Belladonna style. The day is designed to develop skills in those who have already had a go with the basics and are looking for more.

Forthcoming dates:


Visit Belladonna Bushcraft’s Facebook page!

We can come to you! Bespoke days in the woods
Bushcraft can be used in a variety of contexts. We can adapt a programme to suit your groups needs and requirements and work from a variety of locations across the UK. Possible events;

  • School events – themed days linking to your class topics, team building/problem solving.
  • Staff teambuilding/wellbeing day.
  • Staff Professional Development programmes.
  • Birthday parties – for all ages!

Please contact us to discuss your requirements.

Please ensure you have read the appropriate information for your course or event and our terms and conditions before making a booking.

Terms and conditions (PDF file)

Kit List for Belladonna Bushcraft 1-day Training Courses.