DO SOMETHING DIFFERENT THIS JULY
Finished your GCSEs? Step out of the ordinary and join together with others like you to craft, construct and create memories to mark this momentous stage of life!
Learn to make and finish your own tools of flint and bone, prepare and cook a hearty meal, work together to build shelters and try out techniques made to build Stone Henge, experiment with casting metal and gain a taste of a variety of ancient skills usually taught to adults at Butser.
Set amidst ancient buildings from our country’s history, 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.
Use the promo code '2Xtreme16' for the second week for a 10% bundle discount.
Why join us?
Get hands on in the great outdoors and learn ancient survival skills
Book all 4 days or check the schedule to select the days which appeal to you
A unique combination of setting and skills
Worth getting out of bed for
About the experience
A series of specialised day camps designed for 15 to 17-year-olds
9am – 5pm days absolutely packed with creative activities not usually available
Run by knowledgeable and experienced educators who are DBS checked and First Aid trained
A chance to experience the ancient buildings of Butser Ancient Farm in a whole new way
Please note participants on Thursday will be making and bringing home a small cutting tool (microlith blade).
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An adventure waiting to happen:
*indicates something to take home.
Monday:
*Spinning wool from our sheep on a drop spindle.
Seeing natural dyeing over a fire.
Using large ‘nature looms’ to weave natural mats.
*Carving and shaping a sewing needle from animal bone.
*Weaving a small woollen patch on a peg loom.
Making music the ancient way in an ancient dwelling.
*Craft a ‘bullroarer’ using modern materials.
*Make individual ‘buzz-bones’ (historic children’s toys).
*Mix pigments and paint a tiny fresco.
Tuesday:
Chopping kindling and starting fires safely.
Trying different historic fire-starting methods.
Picking and preparing food, including fish (using a flint).
Cooking (and eating) your own feast.
Work together to complete site-wide team challenge.
*Make own leather game pouches.
Wednesday:
*Making a basic ‘chainmail’ bracelet.
Hunting down and cracking code of wax tablets hidden around site.
*Using cuttlefish to design and cast tin ornament.
Trek offsite and practice tree identification / map reading.
*Weave a 7-braided bracelet Viking style.
Thursday:
Practicing basic knot tying.
Move heavy weights with ropes and rollers in a team.
Making shelter with wood and rope.
Archery at a target butt.
Flint knapping to gain a microlith sliver blade.
*Mixing glue by a fire to add a handle to microlith.
*Creating a pouch for tool - sewing leather and (if time) making cordage carry strap.
Orienteering around site using punches.
Developing the skill of slinging.
Every day:
Group games as well as a historic fireside tale. Ancient games available during breaks.
Please note: proposed activities are planned, but may be replaced or added to if necessary (dependant on circumstances).
More information
What should I wear?
Something practical! Comfortable shoes good for the outdoors, 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?
You will need to bring a packed lunch, snacks, and a water bottle (2 bottles on Wednesday for the hike).
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!