Blacksmithing courses at Worcestershire County Museum, Hartlebury Castle

This is a unique opportunity for you to try your hand at the traditional craft of blacksmithing in the beautiful surroundings of Hartlebury Castle. You will be working on an original Victorian forge which was relocated to the County Museum from Dog Lane, Bewdley in the 1960s.

The tutor is Paul Ashmore (AWCB, LWCB), a qualified teacher with over 30 years’ experience in blacksmithing, forge work and metals conservation. Paul has taught at the National School of Blacksmithing and was recently awarded his LWCB (licentiate) by The Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths, London. Paul has an in-depth knowledge of historic ironwork, with a particular interest in the collection of Bromsgrove Guild metal work held by the County Museum.

There are two courses available for 2024: An Introduction to Blacksmithing for beginners, and An Intermediate Course, which builds on the skills learnt in the initial introductory day.

What will I gain from the Introduction to Blacksmithing Course?

The day is suitable for complete beginners and those who want to gain additional experience in the forge. There will only be two students on each course, ensuring participants receive a quality experience.

Exclusive one-to-one tuition is also available.

Throughout the day Paul will demonstrate a range of traditional techniques before allowing participants to work at their own pace using the forge, anvil, hammer, and tongs to create a variety of items to take home.

“As a complete novice I was amazed at what I was able to accomplish in one day thanks to Paul’s tuition, and how much I learned in such a short time. The course was very hands-on and was great fun, and the art of working with metal was far more therapeutic than I expected.”

– Course participant, October 2022.

What is the Intermediate Course?

The immediate course is a brand-new one-day course for those who have been on the introductory course or already know the basics and want to extend their knowledge. Paul Ashmore is also the tutor for the intermediate course.

There will only be two students on each course, ensuring participants receive a quality experience. Exclusive one-to-one tuition is also available.

A discount is offered for those who have previously done the Introduction to Blacksmithing course with us.

Course information

Course prices - 2024

Introduction: £200 per participant (£380 for two participants booking together for the same date)

Intermediate: £220 per participant (£420 for two participants booking together for the same date)

Please note, for both courses, a minimum of 2 participants are required to run each session, so you will be paired with a second participant.

Alternatively, one person can book a day of exclusive 1-to-1 tuition:

Introduction: £380.

Intermediate: £420. We are offering a £10 discount for those who have previously done the Introduction to Blacksmithing Course with us.

Also included:

  • All materials and PPE
  • Lunch and refreshments included
  • Free entry to Worcestershire County Museum (open until 5pm)

All the above prices will be discounted by £10 for a Hartlebury Castle or Museums Worcestershire volunteer, a Hartlebury Guardian or a Worcestershire Residents Pass holder.

Book for 2024

Courses run on Wednesdays or Fridays. Upcoming dates include:

  • Friday 15 March
  • Friday 12 April
  • Friday 19 April (one space left)

Please contact Pippa Ashmore for other available dates and to book your course. pashmore@worcestershire.gov.uk | 01299 250416.

Gift vouchers are also available and make a great present!

For further information, to book a course, or to purchase a voucher please contact Pippa by email at pashmore@worcestershire.gov.uk or call her on 01299 250416.

The course is suitable for 16 years and over. Under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult.

Please contact Pippa for a chat before booking if you have any additional needs or requirements.