7 May 17'
"I would like to start by breaking this honest review into three parts. That will be the course, the venue and finally the tuition. To start with the course Nigel got us to make a poker and coal shovel to try out basic techniques. I should add we were both total novices. After this we made a small pot, an acorn key ring and a very delicate leaf necklace. These were the pre-planned so to speak but we had the option at any point if we had something in mind we wanted to build. He taught us not just how to work the metal but also some history as to why.
Now the venue. This place has it all, and I mean all. It has a workshop that has every tool you need for whatever task you need whether it is small work like we did or big forges and power hammers. Not only is the forge well equipped but at lunch there's a small forest to walk around where he keeps some of his art, shepherds huts and some lovely old engines and not to mention a little bit of wildlife to boot. It is only short ride off a main road so easy to get to.
Finally we get on to the tuition. All I can really say is this is a top class bloke. Once your working he is not over bearing but will not let you struggle and if you do cock up he repairs it in no time. The lessons were informative but more important fun and when everyone was doing ok he rocked out with some pipe instrument. I'm 30 and was in there with an old boy so this course is for all ages and I am already trying to think of what I can make next time. So to finish this off I would say fantastic price for a day where you learn, have fun and even take home some items you made.
Thank you Nigel."