Fransham Forge reviews

21 Mar 16'

Richard Godfrey-Cook reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Best day ever! So amazing cant wait to do it again. Nigel is so friendly and as wealth of knowledge. Thanks Nigel for great day and thanks to my wife for best bloke present ever."

20 Mar 16'

Dean Spencer reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"What can I say, one of the best days of my life. My wife bought me the one day course for my 50th birthday as my young blacksmithing hobby was dwindling, due to lack of inspiration. I was a little apprehensive and didn't know what to expect from the start. But Nigel is one of those people that immediately puts you at ease and he is one hell of a character with a great sense of humour. I just hope I can remember at least half of what he taught me. I went back to my wife at the hotel at the end of the eight and half hour day, absolutely buzzing, with my hands full of things I'd made. My forge and hobby have now been rekindled. Thanks Nigel"

15 Mar 16'

Sarah Brooks reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"One day course, March 2016 at Fransham Forge I echo all the comments below, and the 5 star reviews. I loathed metalwork at school – six weeks of filing the same key ring! – but would happily spend all my free time here. You’ll have a great day and surprise yourself with what you can make, it’s very satisfying. The whole atmosphere of the forge/workshop is like a feast for the eyes, packed with hundreds of bits of intriguing equipment, floor to ceiling, and more huge power hammers than are surely really necessary (they all are!) plus a giant press (think that’s right) that barely clears the roof and is topped by three spinning discs the size of dining tables. Make sure you have a look around the wagons and sculptures outside too which are beautiful. Between four, we shared two furnaces and had an anvil each so no frustrating turn-taking, plus guided use of power hammers, and a rotary wire brush for polishing. Nigel himself is extremely good value as an engaging teacher with a bottomless well of stories. I re-told the one about keeping composure in front of the W.I. to my little boy, and he went from Monday morning school misery to uncontrollable giggles, for which I’m very grateful! If you’re going to take the course (and why wouldn’t you?), bear in mind in cold weather it can be very cold inside, despite the fires, so take extra layers as it’s a long day. There is a kettle and microwave available for tea breaks /warming up lunch if you wanted to (I don’t think this is mentioned in the details.) Note to the sisterhood: I have the arm muscles of a marshmallow – didn’t make a difference. Turns out it’s more about close observation and control than brute force!"

8 Mar 16'

Ian Boyne reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Three of us spent a day together with Nigel. I cant imagine a more passionate artist with all the interesting knowledge of all aspects of his trade. His hands on instructions left you in no doubt what to do, we all made four items that we were very proud of. The Shepherds Huts that he manufactures are second to none and obviously will last a lifetime. Worth a visit to see the showroom. Ian"

14 Feb 16'

Clare reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"A fabulous experience which I highly recommend. Nigel worked really hard, cycling between the three students taking courses on the day I visited and entering wholeheartedly into their projects. He is enthusiastic, very helpful and totally committed to his students. His own work is very beautiful and inspiring. The shepherd's hut accommodation is very clean and comfortable and in a beautiful woodland location. Be aware, though, that a forge is not as warm a place as you might think!"

31 Jan 16'

chris pink reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Did the one day course. Nigel shows you what to do then you make stuff. Awesome. Really enjoyed it. Interesting course good company. A real eye opener to the work that goes into making things with metal. Recommend it."

31 Jan 16'

Lance Did-dell reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I spent a total of 3 days at the forge which I spread over 2 weekends and absolutely loved every minute. Fransham is a genuine real working Forge which contains some amazing tools and machinery and Nigel is dedicated to looking after you throughout your stay and will tailor the experience to suit your ability ensuring you get the most out of your day. Nigel demonstrates a technique and within minutes you’re off having a go yourself, it might take you a bit longer than him but he makes sure you get there in the end building up your confidence as the day progresses. I feel I have had a real insight into the life and history of the blacksmith and I can’t recommend it enough to those who want to experience the craft and have a go at making something unique for themselves."

24 Jan 16'

Lee O'Donnell reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I was given two days with Nigel for my Christmas present this year, and have just ( yesterday) come back. I have had a truly amazing time. I have done a few craft type courses ( glassmaking, Neon making etc) but always wanted to have a go at 'metal bashing'. I can honestly say, my wife could not have found a better place for me to go. No long winded lectures, no standing around just watching. After a brief but imformative safety chat, you are thrown straight in. If you really like a hands on course then this is for you. Nigel demonstrates and you then go off to your own forge and replicate what he has shown you. Don't panic, you are not abandoned, help and advice is ALWAYS there if you need it, all you need do is ask. You learn so many techniques, tips, history, it's just so brilliant. It's a very informal atmosphere, Nigel will wander round, regaling you with stories of his experience, funny tales and loads of info about blacksmithing. You really do have a laugh as well as learn so much. You will not be run to a strict time table, the day may run over a little, Nigel is really good and wants to make sure you come home with as many pieces as possible. I did 2 days and came home with 8 pieces of work, and I was so pleased. If you are reading this, STOP, what are you doing. Get you day with Nigel booked rather than sitting reading this, you will love it!! I WILL be going back as soon as I can. IT IS AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

22 Jan 16'

Helen King reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I bought a course for my boyfriend's birthday present - he told me it's the best present he's ever been given! He told me he really enjoyed spending the day with Nigel, messing about with hot metal, learning, chatting, and coming home with treasures to show for his labours. He told me about your awesome shepherd's huts, and we'd like to come and stay sometime soon. Thanks a lot :-)"

6 Dec 15'

Graham reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"The course was a birthday present and it was a fantastic gift. Had a great day working with Nigel and 2 other students. We worked at our own pace and Nigel was great offering help and guidance. And best of all got to bring several piece I made home with me to impress family and friends. I would recommend it to anyone. I will be back."

4 Dec 15'

Clive Fountain reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"What an amazing day I had on this course. Nigel is so friendly and welcoming, and so knowledgeable. I immediately felt relaxed and like an old friend. Made a number of items and got to experiment with a number of techniques. Could not have wished for a better day or a better teacher. Nigel really is a master craftsman who's passion for his work is infectious. I will definitely be booking again and coming back to learn more. I stayed over in one of the shepherd's hut in the grounds and would also recommend this to anyone. Waking in the very cosy and comfortable hut, nestled amongst the sculptures and surrounded by nature is the icing on the cake of a brilliant weekend."

26 Nov 15'

Sheila McDerment reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I booked the one day blacksmithing course for my husband and 15 year old son. They had a great day and enjoyed working with Nigel - an experienced blacksmith and a great tutor. We also stayed over in the Shepherd's Huts which were lovely - a great way to relax and unwind after a busy day in the forge!"

9 Nov 15'

James Craven reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"The course was booked for my 40th birthday. I stayed the night before in a beautiful shepherds hut in the forge gallery installation in the woods. This is a magical way to start the course, waking up to deer and pheasants by your front door as you walk through the woods to the bbq your breakfast! The course itself was amazing, from Nigel's background in how he got to be a blacksmith to the expert and friendly tuition. He is an inspiring chap! We made a number of useful items (all now in use at home next to my woodburner). I would highly recommend this course to anyone of (almost) any age. I will be going back to learn more! James (Ely)"

28 Oct 15'

Aaron Symonds reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"My second time at the forge was just as enjoyable as the last. This time I did two days and Nigel helped me forge some magnificent pieces. He was friendly and helpful as usual, and by the end of the weekend I had forged lots more pieces than I thought I would be able to. I learnt a lot and had a very restful nights sleep in the shepherds hut. Money well spent for a great time. Thanks."

5 Oct 15'

Jim Bartley reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"The two day course was purchased for me as a 60th birthday gift. I had a really good time learning new skills and updating some old ones. Nigel is a very good teacher and allowed me the scope to try things on my own but was always on hand to guide and advise me. I would recommend this course to anyone. I stayed with my wife at the site in "Woodman's Rest" a warm and cosy shepherds hut. This allowed me to roll out of bed and go straight to the course. What more could you wish for! Local eating hostelries were also good. I hope to go back in the near future."

22 Sep 15'

Nick reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Had a fantastic time and has inspired me to start a career in becoming a blacksmith!"

22 Sep 15'

Peter Hibbit reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I attended the single day course and had a great time. It was great to be in a working blacksmiths rather than in a classroom like environment, so I was able to see other work going on around us. I made 5 things in the single day. During lunch I was able to wander around the wood and look at the art work. A great day!"

24 Aug 15'

Oscar Gray reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Another fantastic day! Thankyou to Nigel again. Looking forward to coming back."

21 Aug 15'

Tony Howe reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I spent three days on the course at Fransham Forge and I cannot praise it enough. Nigel was an excellent teacher ensuring that safety was paramount he made me feel very welcome and I learnt a great deal. I made several useful objects learning several different skills as I did so. I was then able to manufacture something's of my own choosing and by the end I felt like I had lots of new knowledge and skills. I also enjoyed staying in the shepherds hug on site, it was well kitted out and cosy."

18 Aug 15'

Andrew reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Recently completed a two day course which was purchased as a birthday present. Had a fantastic time, made all the better by Nigel 's friendliness and his knowledge of how to work the metal and tutoring style. After having made a poker and bottle opener I then managed to make a bird bath. Thoroughly enjoyed the two days and would recommend it to anyone."

16 Aug 15'

Aaron Symonds reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I had a wonderful time at the forge and i would definitely do it again, it was good fun with really nice people. Nigel is a great guy with plenty of stories and cups of tea."

5 Aug 15'

Oscar Gray reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Absolutely FANTASTIC 2 days! Nigel is a brilliant teacher with really clear demonstration of techniques and leaves plenty of scope for you to put your own twist on things. Really looking forward to going back!"

21 Jul 15'

Maggy Lovell reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"The course was a birthday present and I really enjoyed my day at the forge. Nigel is a very good teacher with lots of interesting tales to tell. I came home with a set of four fire irons, including hooks to hang them, for our new wood burner. I would recommend the course to anyone who is practical."

18 Jul 15'

Kate and Steve reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"If your looking for a different way to spend a day and come away with something other than just a memory , get yourself and your friends along to see Nigel. I've never seen my wife have so much fun with a hammer and red hot metal. Nigel is not just a great teacher, story teller but really really good chap. Take time to enjoy the art exhibition in the woods our favourite piece was the unzipped railway sleeper, followed closely my the giant flute!"

7 Jul 15'

Dennis Cooper reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I have recently spent two remarkable days with Nigel at Fransham Forge. Nigel certainly has a special gift for Blacksmithing and his courses are packed with no nonsense instruction & extremely helpful advice. All my questions were answered in depth, addressing issues I had not even considered. It was a wonderful opportunity to watch him at work & then benefit from his encouragement & patience as I attempted to create my own piece of artwork. With his knowledge & guidance he will take you as far as you can go & even a little further than you imagined possible. Unbelievably I did manage to produce a copy of an "Ammonite set in rock", that my wife had spotted ( & always coveted ) after a visit to the Forge's shop. I cannot thank Nigel enough for letting me have a go at such a difficult project. It has earned me lots of "Brownie Points" Honestly, I had an amazing two days & worth every penny of the course fee."