The Birch Tree

Description

Birch, Betula, Beithe, Bereza, Berke, Beth, Bouleau, The Goddess Tree, Lady of the Woods...

This one day course is all about the humble Birch tree.

It is a tree steeped in myth, in folklore and more recently in science. From North America to Asia, across the whole of Europe & the British Isles, this tree has been used since pre-history for innumerable things.

I’ve a long standing passion and fascination for this tree. For its natural and social history, and particularly its myriad uses and the gifts it provides.

We’ll discover the ancient practice of creating Birch Tar, along with its incredible properties and uses.

We’ll learn to tap the tree and drink its sap.

We’ll discover and use the many objects which can be made from the tree, as well as learn about its medicinal properties and how the chemicals within it, as well as fungi which grow on it, are currently being studied by science to potentially prove many of the old myths and tales true..

We will…

The day will involve practical elements, as well as talks, walks and opportunities to see first hand the many objects which can be made from this tree. 

All students will take home some Birch Tar they’ve made, as well as Birch Soap, Birch Oil, Birch Tea and their very own 'Wild' First Aid Kit.

* Sap collection is only possible in Spring, and even then varies dramatically with the weather on the day... fingers crossed!

Pease read the information below carefully before booking.

Use the arrows either side of the calendar to navigate through the months to see when workshops are running!

Location -

Hardy's Birthplace Visitor Centre & Thorncombe Wood - DT2 8QJ

Courses run from 10am - 4pm

All tools & wood provided

COVID-19 -

If a workshop has to be rescheduled due to a change in Covid circumstances, a rebooking voucher will be offered to all students.

Drinks & Snack's Provided - PLEASE BYO LUNCH

Excluding the above, all bookings are non-refundable.

These workshops are for adults only, however children from age 16+ may attend if joined by a participating adult.