Discover the hidden history of the woodland landscape. On this fascinating Woodland Archaeology course you’ll learn how to identify ancient woodland features, interpret historic land use, and uncover clues left behind by generations of woodland workers. Ideal for woodland owners, history enthusiasts, conservation volunteers and anyone curious about the past.
With thousands of years of changing land use across Britain, our ancient woodlands are rich with hidden features and forgotten stories.
Banks, boundary ditches, charcoal hearths, saw pits, trackways and even military remains all leave their mark on the landscape, offering a fascinating glimpse into how people have lived, worked and managed these woods over the centuries.
During the course we will explore a range of woodland archaeological features and learn how to recognise and interpret the signs left behind by past generations.
Topics covered may include:
The course combines guided walks, practical observation and discussion, helping you develop the skills to “read” the woodland and uncover the hidden history beneath your feet.
Answer: £70 per pearson
Answer: No, this course is suitable for complete beginners and those with an existing interest in local history or woodland management.
Answer: Features may include boundary banks, charcoal hearths, old trackways, saw pits and evidence of historic woodland management.
Answer: No, most of the course takes place outdoors in the woodland, examining features in their landscape context.
Answer: No specialist equipment is required. Sturdy footwear and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.
Answer: Participants should expect to walk over uneven woodland terrain throughout the day.
Answer: Yes, the course is designed to help you recognise and interpret historic features in woodlands and the wider countryside.
Answer: All of our woodland based courses are run in our own piece of ancient woodland, nr the village of Clanfield in Hampshire close to the A3 and A272.
Answer: No, we do not provide food; however, tea and coffee are available throughout the day.
Answer: Yes, all our courses are beginner friendly, we aim to tailor our course to the person joining us to make it a truly unique experience
Answer: No, we always aim to teach from the ground up, so no previous experience is needed on any of our courses
yes, we aim to carter for all ages. Some of our more physical course may require some adaptation but with notice this can be catered for. While we try and make access for all possible this has to be tempered with the natural state of the woodland so it may not be ideal for manual wheelchairs or mobility scooters. We can arrange disable accessible course space for our leather work courses by prior arrangement.
Answer: Yes, although those under 18 require an adult to attend for insurance and safeguarding purposes
Answer: While we try to carry on as much as possible sadly sometimes rain and wind do stop play for safety reasons, because our woodland causes are run in the great outdoors the weather can affect how and if we are able to run, gale force winds and trees are not a good combination, if we have to postpone a course we will try and give as much notice as possible and arrange an alternative date.
Answer: Yes, we regularly send out gift vouchers to participants where a relative wishes to give a gift. Please use our contact us page to ask for more details.
Answer: yes, generally park course attendees in an area just of the road as access to our work and training area is by 4x4 only.
For our leather work course over road parking is available
Answer: yes, we encourage our participants to take photo’s and share the love on social media, the only time this may change is if there are safeguarding issues with under 18’s present.
Answer: Yes, we provide all tools and materials for our courses although if you have you own tools you are welcome to bring them along.
Answer: There are a good number of local hotels and b and b’s in the area for which we can give you detail on application.
Answer: Please wear sturdy outdoor clothing suitable for the weather and strong footwear. Avoid loose clothing, jewellery, or anything that could become caught in machinery.
This course is taught by Chris and Kester Westcott, two of the founders of Three Copse Woodland Products. Kester holds qualifications if forestry as well as a BSc (Hons.) in Wildlife Management and has over 20 years of practical experience in woodland management, charcoal production, coppicing, green woodworking and other traditional rural crafts.