What Can I Expect

Learn to forge a fire poker and a hook on these fun experiences in Kent! Join Michael at his blacksmithing workshop in the heart of the Kentish countryside and make a stylish and very practical fire set.

Michael is a super talented blacksmith. He combines traditional metalworking skills with an eye for design. From decorative pieces to fully-functional things such as gates, the range of work undertaken by this skilled smith is quite impressive.

His passion and enthusiasm for what you can do with metal is what makes these workshops so engaging. Specifically aimed at beginners, you will be able to have a go at various forging and forming techniques to create your fire poker and hook set - and quite frankly, you’ll be amazed at what you achieve.

Hammering away at the red-hot metal rod on the anvils takes a bit of stamina, but when you see you’ve created a lovely curved hook shape it, it’s very, very satisfying! And again, when it comes to making that distinctive twisted style to create the poker using one piece of metal, it might take you some time, but the results are awesome.

What we love about these workshops is that, as well as forging your very own fire poker and hook, the sessions are relaxed and convivial. You’ll work alongside each other, but with a gas forge, anvil and hand tools for yourself and at midday you’ll break for a blacksmith’s hot stew lunch made by Michael.

And of course, you get to take the poker and hook you made home with you. If you’ve got open fire or a log stove, this set will look perfect hanging on the wall of your fireplace!

When Is It Available

• Fridays throughout the year
• The course does not operate in July and August
• Sessions generally start at 9:30 finishing around 17:30

Suitable For

• Minimum age 15
• Under 18s must be accompanied by a participating adult
• Due to the nature of this activity a good, general level of fitness is required

Spectators

• Not suitable for spectators

Anything Else

• You will be required to sign a disclaimer form on the day