The 2 Hour Taster

Overview

2-Hour Forge Taster — Introduction to Blacksmithing A hands-on introduction to traditional blacksmithing, designed for complete beginners and those curious to try the forge for the first time. During this two-hour session, you’ll work at the anvil using fire, hammer and hand-blown bellows, learning the fundamentals of shaping hot steel and leaving with a forged item you’ve made yourself.
What you’ll do You’ll begin with a welcome to the forge, a short safety briefing, and an introduction to the tools and fires. Once the plan is set, you’ll learn how to light, control and work a traditional forging fire using the bellows. Guided step by step by the blacksmith, you’ll heat steel, move it under the hammer, and learn essential techniques such as drawing out, twisting and shaping — gaining a real feel for how hot metal behaves.
What you’ll make You’ll forge a practical steel item to take home — often a twisted fire starter or bottle opener — chosen to teach core blacksmithing skills while creating something genuinely useful.
Who it’s for
  • Complete beginners
  • No previous experience required
  • Suitable for individuals, couples, and small groups
  • A great taster for anyone considering a longer course
The work is physical but paced and fully supported.
What’s included
  • All forging tools and safety equipment (excluding footwear)
  • Materials
  • Tea, coffee and water
  • Expert tuition in a small-group setting

What to wear & bring
  • Long sleeves and long trousers (cotton or denim recommended)
  • Sturdy boots (no open-toe footwear)
  • Warm layers — the forge can be cold away from the fires
  • Lunch or snacks if needed
Long hair must be tied back. Please speak to your doctor before booking if you have concerns about physical activity.
Group discounts
  • 5% off when booking for 2
  • 10% off when booking for 4
    (Automatically applied at checkout)
Location
Old Pound Smithy, Woolfardisworthy, Bideford, England, EX39 5QA, United Kingdom

Additional information

Ticket availability

Tickets are on sale until the experience starts, but may sell out sooner, so don't miss out!

Group discounts

Receive a 5% discount off tickets for a group of 2 or more or 10% for 4 or more.

Booking protection

Add to your booking for £6.00, giving you the flexibility to reschedule up to 7 days before the experience starts.