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Butser Bushcraft - Kids Summer Camp


  • Butser Ancient Farm Chalton Lane Hampshire, PO8 0BG United Kingdom (map)

Do something different this August!

Find out if you have what it takes to survive in a time before Minecraft.  Step out into nature at Butser Ancient Farm this Summer - where you will craft objects, acquire new skills and overcome challenges while working alongside others.

Based in an ancient setting, experience the past in a completely new way and learn whether you have what it takes to survive or to thrive in the natural world.       

Happening 4th - 7th August, and 18th-21st August.  

Why join us?

  • Start each day by chopping kindling and practising your fire lighting skills

  • Each day explores a different hands-on building skill, food-related activity, active-teamwork problem-solving session, ancient fireside tale and learning a useful survival skill.

  • Book all 4 days or check the schedule to select the days which appeal to you.

  • Main activities run from 10am-4pm, with flexible drop-off from 9am and pick-up until 5pm.

About the Experience

  • A series of specialised day camps designed for 8-14 year-olds, teaching ancient skills in ancient surroundings

  • 10am-4pm main schedule of activities with a break for lunch

  • Flexible drop off and pick up between 9-10am in the morning and 4-5pm in the afternoon

  • £45 per person, per day

  • Run by knowledgeable and experienced educators who are DBS checked and First Aid trained

  • Set in the unique surroundings of Butser Ancient Farm’s historic buildings

  • A themed schedule of activities across the week to be fully immersed.

  • Monday:

    Flint wall building

    Making butter

    Tying knots

    Twisting cordage

    Moving weight using rollers

    Tuesday:

    Slinging

    Shelter building

    Cooking in Embers

    Thieves and vagabonds game

    Wednesday:

    Exploring historic fire lighting

    Clunch Wall building

    Cooking bread on a stick

    Making simple pottery

    Site-wide orienteering

    Thursday:

    Making leather game pouch

    Wattle fencing

    Preparing and cooking fish

    Team aqueduct problem-solving

    Every day:

    During dropoff/pickup, get to know the others with a selection of modern games and Viking bracelet weaving.

    Relax and digest your lunch as you are regaled with fireside tales by an experienced storyteller.

    Learn how to safely hand knives before using them to cut kindling and start your own fire. Roast marshmallows, and learn to put out fires safely.

    Please note: proposed activities are planned, but may be replaced or added to if necessary (dependant on circumstances).


More information

What should my child wear?

Something practical! Flat shoes, plenty of layers if it's cold, wet weather gear if it's rainy, and clothes you don't mind risking getting a little mucky. This workshop will likely be held both inside and outside, except in the case of extreme weather.

Should I bring anything to the day camp?

Your child will need to bring a packed lunch with them. They may also want to bring a change of clothes.

Is there parking?

Yes! We have plenty of free and accessible parking. If you're worried about accessibility, please email hello@butserancientfarm.co.uk for advice.

Where should I go on the day?

Just head to the entrance kiosk and show us your ticket as normal. We'll help with where to go after that!

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17 August

Natural Dye Workshop

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22 August

Lunar Connect and Reset