Join us in our woodland in Clanfield, Hampshire, for an introduction to coppicing. Discover this traditional woodland craft and learn how coppicing produces useful materials while helping woodland thrive.
This hands-on course is suitable for woodland owners, woodland workers and anyone interested in traditional woodland crafts or the great outdoors. You’ll gain practical experience in cutting coppice, selecting useful products, removing side branches and caring for freshly cut stools.
We’ll also cover safe tool use, basic tool maintenance, layering and protecting cut coppice. Whether you’re new to woodland work or looking to develop your existing skills, you’ll have the opportunity to learn in a working woodland.
Please note: This is a practical outdoor course involving physical work. Please wear suitable outdoor clothing and sturdy footwear.
During this practical introduction to coppicing, we’ll cover the essential techniques used to manage coppiced trees and make the most of the materials they produce.
You’ll learn about:
Cutting rods — practical techniques for cutting coppice growth.
Threading out — removing side branches to prepare rods for use.
Selecting products — identifying suitable material for different uses.
Tool safety — using woodland tools safely and responsibly.
Tool maintenance — caring for tools to keep them safe and effective.
Layering — exploring a traditional technique used in coppice management.
Protecting cut coppice — understanding how to protect freshly cut stools and encourage healthy regrowth.
We’ll introduce you to the hand tools commonly used in traditional coppice work and show you how to use and care for them safely.
The main tools we’ll be using include:
Billhook — for cutting and trimming coppice growth.
Axe — for suitable cutting tasks where an axe is appropriate.
Pruning saw — for cutting stems and branches.
You’re welcome to bring your own tools if you’d like to learn more about using or maintaining them, but we can provide the tools you need for the day.
All of our woodland courses take place in our own 64 acres of ancient woodland in the heart of the South Downs, near Clanfield, Hampshire. Much of the woodland is at different stages of restoration, providing a practical setting to learn about coppicing, woodland ecology and sustainable management.
Our woodland is certified by Grown in Britain, reflecting our commitment to the responsible management of our woodland and the sustainable use of British timber.
The course lasts around seven hours, giving us plenty of time to explore our ancient woodland, learn practical coppicing techniques, and discover how to select and grade the materials we produce.
Tea and coffee are provided throughout the course. Other food is not included, although we can arrange a barbecue if requested in advance.
There are a number of local hotels and bed and breakfast establishments in the area. We can provide details on request.