Fransham Forge reviews

13 Jun 16'

Margaret Maxwell reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I wish I'd booked it earlier - it took me 18 months from being given the course for Christmas to actually doing it as I was worried about my bad wrist. I need not have worried as it was much less physical than I expected and Nigel was very helpful. It was a wonderful day away from the norm hearing Nigel's stories and making items which I'm proud of. I've already been busy recommending it to others :)"

13 Jun 16'

Alex Mason reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"My wife gave me this as a present for my 75th birthday - Nigel is a great character and an excellent teacher - a few safety tips, a demonstration then off you go to get on with it - under his guidance the things I made will be treasured. I would recommend this to anyone with or without any previous practical experience. A memorable day spent with a man who certainly has a flair for artistry in metal. Alex mason"

12 Jun 16'

Hernan Morillo reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I signed up for the one day course with Nigel. I had never done any smithing before and I was curious about how it would feel to bend, shape and form metal, it is an amazing thing to be able to create a complex shape from a simple rod. Nigel was excellent, obviously a talented artist/ craftsman but also a good teacher and great fun to hear his many stories. The workshop is an engineers' paradise. You'll get to visit his gallery too which is full of interesting artefacts and there are arty sculptures scattered around the gardens. I am planning to spend another 1-2 days working on my own design of a fire pit. Would I recommend this course/ Nigel ? Yes, without any hesitation and I look forward to visiting Fransham Forge again soon. Thank you for an excellent day Nigel."

12 Jun 16'

Harvey Darkins reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I had a great day blacksmithing with Nigel on the one day course. I received the course as a present from my girlfriend as I've always wanted to have a go and maybe start it as a hobby. I managed to make a fire set (poker, tong and shovel) in the day which was a nice thing to take away from the course. Nigel is always on hand to help you through each stage. He makes it look very easy. We stayed at the forge in one of Nigel's shepherds hut. It was very comfortable, perfect accommodation for the course, with everything you need. Plus, it was nice to be able to cook our meals on open fire. I would definitely go back for another day if I start blacksmithing as a hobby, for more tuition."

22 May 16'

Michael Wigfull reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Spent an amazing day learning from Nigel, he's an excellent teacher but he makes it look far too easy. He'll show you how to do it and then leave you to try it for yourself, if you fail no problem just put it back into the fire and try again. You'll be given access to most of Nigel's Knights of the Round table, various types of weights of power hammers that will help you draw out the metal once you've learnt how to do it by hand. I may have caught the blacksmithing bug, I wish I'd been taught this stuff in school. I think I'm going to be retelling Nigel's stories to anyone who'll listen for a long time. Five stars, can I come back next week?"

11 May 16'

anita and william roberts reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"My son and I had a wonderful day with Nigel at the Forge, including two nights in the shepherds huts on what proved to be a snowy spring weekend. As a girl raised in the sexist days of the 50's and 60's I had no experience at all of metalwork and was a little nervous of what to expect. Nigel was interesting and knowledgable, willing to stand back or step in as needed. Having expected that we would observe much and participate a little we were thrilled to discover that once Nigel had demonstrated a technique we were able to practise skills with a considerable level of independence and to produce objects of our own. We came away very aware of the level of skill Nigel has in producing beautiful ironwork and with our own less than perfect, but proudly produced, pokers, shovels, metal leaves and a small dish. Nigel's flute playing was relaxing and fun and he made four children very welcome to watch and listen for part of the day. This day was a Christmas gift that was greatly appreciated - an all-round good experience."

17 Apr 16'

Jim reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Had a superb day! Wish I had known about the forge earlier as it is very close to home and I definately intend to return. A very relaxed and fun day of Smithying followed by a night in one of the shepherds Huts. Really cosy place to relax and get away from it all. Recommend taking some food to cook (or something you have pre made) as the kitchen hut is really well equipped and the local area hasn't got a huge amount to offer in the way of restaurants. Highly recommend this as a gift or just as a day out... Already have plans to come back when my other half has another girls weekend away!"

16 Apr 16'

Dave reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Stop reading now and sign up for the course. I can not recommend any higher, very enjoyable day! My only regret was I only did one day, not two days. I was able to complete 3 projects with no prior experience. Nigel not only keeps your attention with stories of his travels around the world, all made possible with his unique Blacksmithing knowledge, but has a way of explaining how to do everything clearly and simply. Very relaxed atmosphere. No pressure to perform. You are shown the task then allowed to get on, with the comfort of assistance at anytime. I will definitely visit the forge again."

4 Apr 16'

James Mouser reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I attended a one day course as a 40th Birthday present from my Wife. What a fantastic experience. Nigel is certainly a skilled Blacksmith with a great sense of humour. The work shop itself has a variety of historic equipment that we simply don't make to the same quality these days. The course would suit all ages and sizes. A father and son and a more mature gentleman went on the course with me and all of us produced pieces we are proud of. Nigel broke down the process in to steps that were easy to follow and he adapted the course to suit the group. Starting slowly and gradually building up as we gained confidence. We certainly got a full day and got value for money. I do have one regret, that I didn't do a two day course!"

29 Mar 16'

Ben South reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I was given a day course with Nigel for my Christmas present this year. I've never done it before, but it was very good fun and I learned a lot in what was a solid day. Nigel certainly has some stories to tell and some very impressive creations to show. I thoroughly recommend course for anyone interested in making things themselves, it was really great fun."

21 Mar 16'

Richard Godfrey-Cook reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Best day ever! So amazing cant wait to do it again. Nigel is so friendly and as wealth of knowledge. Thanks Nigel for great day and thanks to my wife for best bloke present ever."

20 Mar 16'

Dean Spencer reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"What can I say, one of the best days of my life. My wife bought me the one day course for my 50th birthday as my young blacksmithing hobby was dwindling, due to lack of inspiration. I was a little apprehensive and didn't know what to expect from the start. But Nigel is one of those people that immediately puts you at ease and he is one hell of a character with a great sense of humour. I just hope I can remember at least half of what he taught me. I went back to my wife at the hotel at the end of the eight and half hour day, absolutely buzzing, with my hands full of things I'd made. My forge and hobby have now been rekindled. Thanks Nigel"

15 Mar 16'

Sarah Brooks reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"One day course, March 2016 at Fransham Forge I echo all the comments below, and the 5 star reviews. I loathed metalwork at school – six weeks of filing the same key ring! – but would happily spend all my free time here. You’ll have a great day and surprise yourself with what you can make, it’s very satisfying. The whole atmosphere of the forge/workshop is like a feast for the eyes, packed with hundreds of bits of intriguing equipment, floor to ceiling, and more huge power hammers than are surely really necessary (they all are!) plus a giant press (think that’s right) that barely clears the roof and is topped by three spinning discs the size of dining tables. Make sure you have a look around the wagons and sculptures outside too which are beautiful. Between four, we shared two furnaces and had an anvil each so no frustrating turn-taking, plus guided use of power hammers, and a rotary wire brush for polishing. Nigel himself is extremely good value as an engaging teacher with a bottomless well of stories. I re-told the one about keeping composure in front of the W.I. to my little boy, and he went from Monday morning school misery to uncontrollable giggles, for which I’m very grateful! If you’re going to take the course (and why wouldn’t you?), bear in mind in cold weather it can be very cold inside, despite the fires, so take extra layers as it’s a long day. There is a kettle and microwave available for tea breaks /warming up lunch if you wanted to (I don’t think this is mentioned in the details.) Note to the sisterhood: I have the arm muscles of a marshmallow – didn’t make a difference. Turns out it’s more about close observation and control than brute force!"

8 Mar 16'

Ian Boyne reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Three of us spent a day together with Nigel. I cant imagine a more passionate artist with all the interesting knowledge of all aspects of his trade. His hands on instructions left you in no doubt what to do, we all made four items that we were very proud of. The Shepherds Huts that he manufactures are second to none and obviously will last a lifetime. Worth a visit to see the showroom. Ian"

14 Feb 16'

Clare reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"A fabulous experience which I highly recommend. Nigel worked really hard, cycling between the three students taking courses on the day I visited and entering wholeheartedly into their projects. He is enthusiastic, very helpful and totally committed to his students. His own work is very beautiful and inspiring. The shepherd's hut accommodation is very clean and comfortable and in a beautiful woodland location. Be aware, though, that a forge is not as warm a place as you might think!"

31 Jan 16'

chris pink reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"Did the one day course. Nigel shows you what to do then you make stuff. Awesome. Really enjoyed it. Interesting course good company. A real eye opener to the work that goes into making things with metal. Recommend it."

31 Jan 16'

Lance Did-dell reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I spent a total of 3 days at the forge which I spread over 2 weekends and absolutely loved every minute. Fransham is a genuine real working Forge which contains some amazing tools and machinery and Nigel is dedicated to looking after you throughout your stay and will tailor the experience to suit your ability ensuring you get the most out of your day. Nigel demonstrates a technique and within minutes you’re off having a go yourself, it might take you a bit longer than him but he makes sure you get there in the end building up your confidence as the day progresses. I feel I have had a real insight into the life and history of the blacksmith and I can’t recommend it enough to those who want to experience the craft and have a go at making something unique for themselves."

24 Jan 16'

Lee O'Donnell reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I was given two days with Nigel for my Christmas present this year, and have just ( yesterday) come back. I have had a truly amazing time. I have done a few craft type courses ( glassmaking, Neon making etc) but always wanted to have a go at 'metal bashing'. I can honestly say, my wife could not have found a better place for me to go. No long winded lectures, no standing around just watching. After a brief but imformative safety chat, you are thrown straight in. If you really like a hands on course then this is for you. Nigel demonstrates and you then go off to your own forge and replicate what he has shown you. Don't panic, you are not abandoned, help and advice is ALWAYS there if you need it, all you need do is ask. You learn so many techniques, tips, history, it's just so brilliant. It's a very informal atmosphere, Nigel will wander round, regaling you with stories of his experience, funny tales and loads of info about blacksmithing. You really do have a laugh as well as learn so much. You will not be run to a strict time table, the day may run over a little, Nigel is really good and wants to make sure you come home with as many pieces as possible. I did 2 days and came home with 8 pieces of work, and I was so pleased. If you are reading this, STOP, what are you doing. Get you day with Nigel booked rather than sitting reading this, you will love it!! I WILL be going back as soon as I can. IT IS AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

22 Jan 16'

Helen King reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I bought a course for my boyfriend's birthday present - he told me it's the best present he's ever been given! He told me he really enjoyed spending the day with Nigel, messing about with hot metal, learning, chatting, and coming home with treasures to show for his labours. He told me about your awesome shepherd's huts, and we'd like to come and stay sometime soon. Thanks a lot :-)"

6 Dec 15'

Graham reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"The course was a birthday present and it was a fantastic gift. Had a great day working with Nigel and 2 other students. We worked at our own pace and Nigel was great offering help and guidance. And best of all got to bring several piece I made home with me to impress family and friends. I would recommend it to anyone. I will be back."

4 Dec 15'

Clive Fountain reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"What an amazing day I had on this course. Nigel is so friendly and welcoming, and so knowledgeable. I immediately felt relaxed and like an old friend. Made a number of items and got to experiment with a number of techniques. Could not have wished for a better day or a better teacher. Nigel really is a master craftsman who's passion for his work is infectious. I will definitely be booking again and coming back to learn more. I stayed over in one of the shepherd's hut in the grounds and would also recommend this to anyone. Waking in the very cosy and comfortable hut, nestled amongst the sculptures and surrounded by nature is the icing on the cake of a brilliant weekend."

26 Nov 15'

Sheila McDerment reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"I booked the one day blacksmithing course for my husband and 15 year old son. They had a great day and enjoyed working with Nigel - an experienced blacksmith and a great tutor. We also stayed over in the Shepherd's Huts which were lovely - a great way to relax and unwind after a busy day in the forge!"

9 Nov 15'

James Craven reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"The course was booked for my 40th birthday. I stayed the night before in a beautiful shepherds hut in the forge gallery installation in the woods. This is a magical way to start the course, waking up to deer and pheasants by your front door as you walk through the woods to the bbq your breakfast! The course itself was amazing, from Nigel's background in how he got to be a blacksmith to the expert and friendly tuition. He is an inspiring chap! We made a number of useful items (all now in use at home next to my woodburner). I would highly recommend this course to anyone of (almost) any age. I will be going back to learn more! James (Ely)"

28 Oct 15'

Aaron Symonds reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"My second time at the forge was just as enjoyable as the last. This time I did two days and Nigel helped me forge some magnificent pieces. He was friendly and helpful as usual, and by the end of the weekend I had forged lots more pieces than I thought I would be able to. I learnt a lot and had a very restful nights sleep in the shepherds hut. Money well spent for a great time. Thanks."

5 Oct 15'

Jim Bartley reviewed: Blacksmithing, bladesmithing and metal craft

"The two day course was purchased for me as a 60th birthday gift. I had a really good time learning new skills and updating some old ones. Nigel is a very good teacher and allowed me the scope to try things on my own but was always on hand to guide and advise me. I would recommend this course to anyone. I stayed with my wife at the site in "Woodman's Rest" a warm and cosy shepherds hut. This allowed me to roll out of bed and go straight to the course. What more could you wish for! Local eating hostelries were also good. I hope to go back in the near future."