Sallerton Wood reviews

20 Jun 21'

Les reviewed: Make a shave horse at Sallerton Wood

"Great course in a perfect location. Andy is a great teacher, informative skilled & well humoured. I look forward to doing another course in Sallerton Woods sometime soon."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks very much for your kind review, Les. We're glad that you appreciated the course, and we look forward to welcoming you back to Sallerton Wood in the near future."

26 Sep 20'

Gill Birch reviewed: Chair making course at Sallerton Wood

"Really wonderful experience and such a sense of achievement when the chair finally comes together. Great location and fantastic facilities. Andy was incredibly knowledgeable and very calm and patient. Would definitely recommend it to anyone who wants to do something creative outside. It is suitable for people of all levels experience and we had none."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thank you very much indeed, Gill, for your kind review. We're delighted that you enjoyed the course, and the environment and facilities at Sallerton Wood. We hope to see you back at Sallerton Wood one day."

12 Sep 20'

Tricia Marshall reviewed: Stool making course at Sallerton Wood

"My Sallerton Wood Experience. What a wonderful break it was to be absorbed totally with creating a stool from a log of ash and the bark of the elm. We simply followed the directions expertly explained by Andy in the most peaceful relaxing setting of Sallerton Wood. Surrounded by gently rustling trees, the sound of the stream, the bird song and the soft sounds of sharp tools working on wood and the occasional giggle from me as I succeeded to form round legs from square chunks, so satisfying. What better than to rest and chat whilst eating a tasty sandwich made from home-made bread, and fresh salad and to eat pizza straight from the pizza oven, what a treat? All in all we had a perfectly unique experience, to be repeated by us again one day I hope."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks, Tricia, for this account of your experience at Sallerton Wood. We're very pleased to hear how much you enjoyed it, and we look forward to welcoming you back at Sallerton Wood if you decide to return sometime in the future."

30 Aug 20'

Ashley Golder reviewed: Make a shave horse at Sallerton Wood

"Excellent course for learning some basic woodworking skills using non-powered tools. The Shave Horse is a very useful tool to come away with after a weekend of learning these skills. The woodland setting is a great place to spend a few days and Andy's easy and laid back teaching skills combine with his in-depth knowledge to make this an experience to remember."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks, Ashley, for your kind review. We're very pleased that you enjoyed the course, and we would be pleased to see you back at Sallerton Wood sometime in the future. We hope that you get many hours of pleasure using your shave horse."

27 Aug 20'

Carole Constable reviewed: Introduction to green woodworking at Sallerton Wood

"I had a most enjoyable day and, by the end, felt I had received a good grounding in the basic techniques of using the woodworking tools. Andy was a very clear and patient tutor, and was happy to demonstrate repeatedly those techniques which any of us had not grasped immediately. I look forward to coming on another course in the future."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thank you, Carole, for posting that kind review, and we're pleased that you enjoyed your course. We look forward to welcoming you back at Sallerton Wood for another course sometime in the future."

25 Aug 20'

Juliet Pankhurst reviewed: Introduction to green woodworking at Sallerton Wood

"Andy was so knowledgeable, great environment and really enjoyed the course. Also had lovely lunch ?"

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Great to hear that you enjoyed this course, and many thanks for writing a review. :-)"

27 May 20'

Rob M reviewed: Stool making course at Sallerton Wood

"I completed the three day stool making course at Sallerton Wood, which is a beautiful and peaceful setting. Andy, the course tutor, is down-to-earth with a calm and thoughtful teaching style; he has exceptional skill, knowledge and experience. Andy has put a lot of care and thought into the setup, with a fully-equipped workshop offering plenty of shelter and a kitchen/dining area for breaks and lunch. These areas have been lovingly constructed with trees from Sallerton Wood. The various tools you use to produce your stool have also been professionally hand-made by Andy. The whole experience was thoroughly enjoyable and I felt the most relaxed I have in years. It was a joy to be off-grid, in a lovely setting and crafting something from green wood (and I came away with a great little stool). I highly recommend this course and plan to come back again, perhaps to try the chair making course!?"

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks very much, Rob, for your kind review, and I look forward to welcoming you back at Sallerton Wood when you are ready to participate in a chair-making course. In the meantime, very best wishes to you. Andy."

19 Oct 19'

Richard & Tricia Marshall reviewed: Introduction to green woodworking at Sallerton Wood

"What a great day! We had booked places on this course as a Christmas present for ourselves having seen a report on TV of similar green woodworking and thought it would be great to try it too. We originally booked on the May course but had to postpone to September because the date clashed with a family anniversary party. Andy was very helpful getting our booking postponed and made it so easy. We didn't quite know what to expect when we arrived but, despite the rain, the setting was beautiful and fortunately there was more than sufficient shelter. Our tutor Andy immediately made us feel at ease as he described the day ahead and even the H & S was presented gently without making it seem too restricting. Within 30 minutes we were starting to cut log blanks for making our mallets using traditional techniques. Andy explained the objectives and how to use the various tools very clearly, demonstrating their use with consummate skill. As we made our first attempts, he came round and guided each of us, praising and pointing out how to work the wood to get the best results. Andy has such depth of knowledge and great skill in selecting and working with timber. As things progressed through the day, we gradually learnt about how to select the wood for cutting, and how to use each tool to achieve the objective. Having not only the right tools but very sharp ones made things easier. It's clear that time is spent between courses making sure all the tools are fully sharpened, which requires a lot of skill. The spatulas we all made were beautiful and practical. We enjoyed the company of fellow students, who like us had little previous experience. Working in the open air, in woodland was new to us. Everyone got on well together and Andy was excellent, helping each of us but also allowing us to learn by doing, without breathing down our necks! We made mistakes, of course, but then he showed us how to make the most of it anyway. Towards the end of the afternoon we used pole lathes to make various items such as garden dibbers and rolling pins. Again, Andy showed us step by step how to prepare the timber, set it in the lathe and then turn it. Most of us found it quite hard to synchronise the back-and-forth turning of the lathe with apply and then relaxing the cutting tool at the right time. But again, Andy was there showing us how to get the best result. Overall, we can say it was a most excellent and enjoyable introduction to green woodworking, in a super environment with a really great teacher. We'd love to come back for another course; we thoroughly recommend this one to everyone and we're sure that the other courses are just as good."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"We are very pleased to hear that you both enjoyed the course so much, and thank you very much indeed for writing such a kind and thorough review. We look forward to seeing you back at Sallerton Wood for another course, and please remember to ask for a Return Booking Discount which currently stands at 15%."

3 Oct 19'

Chris Horsburgh reviewed: Chair making course at Sallerton Wood

"This was my second course at Sallerton Wood, I attended the stool making course last year and was my first experience of working with green wood. This year I attended the 6 day chair making course. It was an excellent course. The new workshop is a big improvement, the tools were in superb condition. The tuition provided by Andy conveys his enthusiasm for working with green wood and his deep knowledge of the subject. It provides encouragement for course participants to improve their skills and believe that they can produce from what starts off as a log a great piece of furniture. One chair made, only 5 more to go for the dining room suite I have promised my daughter. I am eagerly awaiting the publication of next year's dates so I can book. In addition, I have now bought my own draw knife from Workaid based in Chesham which is a wonderful charity that reconditions old tools and sends them out to developing countries to support projects run by local people."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks very much indeed for your review, Chris. We're delighted that you've enjoyed both of the courses that you have attended, and we look forward to welcoming you back for a further course next season. The course dates for 2020 are on the Sallerton Wood website right now!"

27 Sep 19'

Carol Voaden reviewed: Stool making course at Sallerton Wood

"Joined Andy on a three day stool making course Sept 2019. Very enjoyable sessions, time scheduled to perfection by Andy with regular breaks for beverages and a lovely lunch which gave us all a chance to get to know one another. Andy was always in attendance to provide guidance and support where ever needed. His woodworking skills, use of tools and materials was apparent from start to finish. The setting of the wood and work area was spectacular, clearly supporting the ethos behind the Greenwood Craft Course. I would thoroughly recommend this learning experience to anyone regardless of their existing skills. I was a complete newby to woodworking and managed to turnout a wonderful piece of work. I am very pleased with my stool and it stands in pride of place in my living room, mainly under my feet!"

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks very much indeed, Carol, for posting that kind review. We're very pleased that you enjoyed the course, and its woodland setting. Glad to hear too that you're putting the stool to good use already! We're hoping to welcome you back at Sallerton Wood again sometime in the future."

27 Sep 19'

Alan Duncan reviewed: Stool making course at Sallerton Wood

"I was really looking forward to attending this course but it far exceeded my expectations. I had done very little green woodworking before which was not a problem for Andy. He explained everything clearly, whilst demonstrating the next stage and was always at hand if I needed extra reminders! Sallerton is an idyllic woodland, with a stream running through the site. The working area is well equipped and the tools in good condition and regularly sharpened by Andy. We were well looked after, with regular coffee/tea breaks and good lunches. The group appeared to gel together in part because Andy encouraged people to help each other, working in pairs for certain jobs. We all completed ours stools and I was certainly very pleased with my finished piece. All that is required in a oiling once it has dried out. Brilliant Thank you."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks very much indeed for posting a review, Alan. We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed the course so much, and the lovely environment and resources at Sallerton Wood. We'd love to see you back again one day. Many thanks for your kind review."

21 Sep 19'

Dick White reviewed: Stool making course at Sallerton Wood

"What a great 3 days. Super location, relaxed atmosphere - helped by having a really friendly group of attendees. Andy is thorough, patient, very skilled and good at conveying those skills to others, whatever their ability level. Whether you are a complete novice or just want to add to / hone your skills then I can highly recommend booking a course here. I'll certainly be back."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks very much for your kind review, Dick. We're very pleased to hear that you enjoyed the course and its atmosphere. We look forward to seeing you back at Sallerton Wood for another course, and do remember to ask for the Return Booking Discount when you book; it currently stands at 15%."

16 Sep 19'

Deb reviewed: Greenwood carving at Sallerton Wood

"We had a really lovely couple of days. It was so nice to be in the woods, listening to the stream while being completely absorbed in chopping, sawing and carving a bit of wood! Andy was very calm with a relaxed style and was always on hand when we had a question."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks very much, Deb, for posting a review. We're pleased that you enjoyed the course and the proximity of woodland and stream whilst working on your kuksa. Hope to see you and Mick back at Sallerton Wood again one day."

12 Sep 19'

Jayne Newman reviewed: Make a shave horse at Sallerton Wood

"This was an amazing course, fantastic setting, run by a friendly knowledgeable trainer, Andy. I have gone from knowing nothing to having the confidence to use a shave horse to shape wood, a pole lathe to finish the wood and shape to the correct size, splitting logs and using an axe, and then fixing it all together to make a shave horse of my own. Brilliant fun. Would recommend this course to everyone Also have to say the food provided was so lovely."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks very much, Jayne, for your review and recommendation. We're very pleased that you enjoyed the course, and the provided lunches. We hope that you have lots of fun using your new shave horse for making your own greenwood items."

12 Sep 19'

Amanda Humphries reviewed: Make a shave horse at Sallerton Wood

"An amazing two day course making a shave horse. This was one of the most enjoyable courses I have done, and I have done many!! Andy was friendly and attentive in looking after us and making sure we had the help and guidance we needed the whole time. The venue, Sallerton Wood, was just the best setting bringing a wonderful tranquility and relaxation to the course. A beautiful setting. I learnt a lot on this course and will be looking to book another!! Thank you."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Many thanks, Amanda, for your review, and we're delighted that you enjoyed the course and the woodland environment at Sallerton Wood. We look forward to welcoming you back at Sallerton Wood on another course, and don't forget to ask for a Return Booking discount which currently stands at 15%."

11 Sep 19'

Steve Mortimer reviewed: Make a shave horse at Sallerton Wood

"I've just returned from the Shave Horse course and I can't thank Andy enough, his style of tutoring is brilliant with a good mix of humuor and guidance. We had a group of seven with mixed experience and his patience with us all was greatly received. The course is quite demanding to complete your own Shave Horse on time, but with Andy's help we all achieved it. You could not wish for a better location to learn new skills, even though we didn't have the best weather we were well sheltered and kept dry at all times. Lunch was provided and was very good especially the quiche. I can't wait to go back next year and try another course. I would not hesitate to recommend Sallerton Wood for your green woodworking courses. Once again thanks Andy for a brilliant couple of days."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks very much, Steve, for posting that enthusiastic review - much appreciated. We look forward to your return next year on another course. Don't forget to ask for a Return Booking discount which currently stands at 15%."

9 Sep 19'

Steve Bailey reviewed: Stool making course at Sallerton Wood

"Thoroughly enjoyable and informative two days, great to get into the outdoors environment, even better to be shown what can be done with a shave horse...and then put them into practice...Andy demonstrates techniques such that even I had a chance of picking them up, well done Andy, and thanks. My horse has been at home a week and is still standing ?"

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks for posting your review, Steve. Glad to hear that you enjoyed the course. Hope to see you back at Sallerton Wood one day."

9 Sep 19'

John Leahy reviewed: Make a shave horse at Sallerton Wood

"A really great experience in a beautiful setting. The tutor was very knowledgeable and a grand host. Learnt a lot, had a lot of laughs, and got to make a shave horse that I will treasure for years. Highly recommended."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks, John, for your review and recommendation. We're very pleased that you enjoyed the course and its woodland setting."

4 Sep 19'

Paul Fricker reviewed: Make a shave horse at Sallerton Wood

"As a fully qualified Engineer and Trainer for more years than I care to mention, I am only too aware that the most difficult candidates to teach are trainers. I can honestly say without reservation that this course of making a shave horse is the best experience I have ever had on any course. I came as a complete novice. The skills of teaching and instruction given by Andy, enabled me in just two days to learn so many new skills and techniques, which ultimately led to completing a shave horse of my own. The sense of achievement is an experience that will last a lifetime. The location, atmosphere, and hospitality were all first class and topped off by some home baked cooking supplied by Jane. It might be a cliche but genuinely nothing was too much trouble. Thank you Andy and Jane. Kindest Regards Paul."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks very much indeed for your kind review, Paul. We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed and appreciated the course so much, and Jane's cake too! We hope to see you back at Sallerton Wood before too long."

3 Sep 19'

Ian Wilson reviewed: Make a shave horse at Sallerton Wood

"Just spent a couple of very enjoyable days at Sallerton Wood making a shave horse. The wood is a lovely place to work, the framed buildings are an inspiration as well as being very in keeping with the whole weekend. The workshop is well equipped and the pace just right - getting on with it without feeling rushed. Andy is a knowledgeable and sympathetic teacher who helps you when you need help and lets you get on with it once you've got the hang of it. As others have mentioned tea facilities and cake are excellent and the camping was very relaxing of an evening. Learning green woodwork in an idyllic setting is an absolute pleasure so I'm looking forward to booking up the six day chair making course soon! In the mean time I'm off to start using my new shavehorse"

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Than you very much indeed for posting your enthusiastic review, Ian. We're very pleased that you enjoyed the course and environment at Sallerton Wood, and we look forward to welcoming you back there for a Chair-making course. Enjoy using your new shave horse in the meantime!"

27 Jul 19'

John Samworth reviewed: Chair making course at Sallerton Wood

"What an amazing way to spend a week with a truly beautiful piece of furniture to show for it at the end. The local wood is well stocked with native hardwood trees ample to make a chair (or two) from coppiced wood, the traditional and sustainable method. The staff are very experienced and patient with all attendees, especially those like me with limited experience. All hand tools are available and kept in good condition with keen edges. The team have worked hard to create a self sufficient working environment with minimal impact upon the land and environment. If you enjoy working outdoors then this is the place for you. If you spend your time indoors then its vital you need to join in too!"

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thank you very much indeed, John, for posting your review, and we're glad to hear that you enjoyed the course and the environment of Sallerton Wood. Yours is the 50th five-star review that we have received for our courses, and CraftCourses.com have now awarded us their Platinum award as a course provider; their highest award category. We hope to see you back at Sallerton Wood sometime in the future."

16 Jul 19'

Alex Cullum reviewed: Stool making course at Sallerton Wood

"My main interest in this course was to use the tools and learn the skills of green wood working while spending time in the woods. These goals were met completely, but in addition it was a joy, spending time with such an engaged and experienced instructor as Andy. The woods are beautiful and have a wonderfully welcoming atmosphere as well as diverse vegetation and wildlife. The sound of the streams day and night really lift the vibrant life of the location. The working area is brilliantly constructed in keeping with the theme of the courses and very well equipped. The cooking area is totally relaxing, and Andy’s lunches are just what’s needed. The camping is more luxurious than just rough camping, the hot shower in the morning is a joy and being able to use the kitchen area makes it very comfortable and highly recommended. Being able to just stay in the woods for the length of the whole course added to the experience I was after. As for my product, a small stool with bark seat, before the course I had planned to give it away to in-laws rather than hassle my way home with it on two international flights. However, it is now proudly home with me and I can’t wait to make a shaving horse and have a go at another. Thank you Andy, it was an all round joy spending time in the woods with you. Overall summary: Highly recommended to anyone with an interest in wood and trees. Absolute top value for money. It could not have been better."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thank you very much indeed for your very thorough and enthusiastic review, Alex. I'm sure that Andy will be looking forward very much to seeing you at Sallerton Wood again in the future and will be writing to you separately by email. Alan Morton"

12 Jul 19'

Les reviewed: Make a shave horse at Sallerton Wood

"What an excellent way to spend a weekend. Andy is great at imparting his knowledge, patient and kind in his encouragement. My fellow students were great, we all had a marvellous time, we met as strangers and left as friends. This is all down to Andy's hospitality. We were well fed, and drinks were always available. The setting is brilliant, with a variety of trees, and a lovely stream which passes right beside the dining area. It is truly magical. The cost of the course has to be the bargain of the year as far as I'm concerned, as you get to leave with an eminently useful piece of kit. Anyone would be hard pressed to even buy a kit that you would have to assemble yourself at this price. Yet here, you can go home with something you have made yourself. There is an immense feeling of pride and satisfaction in that. I can recommend this course to anyone, no matter what you think your skill level may be. Andy will ensure that you can get it done."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thank you very much indeed for your very generous review, Les. We're delighted that you enjoyed the course and the surrounding woodland environment, and on top of that made some new good friends. It would be good to see you back at Sallerton Wood again before too long."

9 Jul 19'

Sebastiano Puglisi reviewed: Make a shave horse at Sallerton Wood

"My son and I spent a fantastic weekend in Sallerton Wood. Andy is a great teacher, his hospitality is great, he has made the most of the woodland. The place is fantastic, facilities for camping were brilliant. The shave horse course was an intensive, rewarding task. We are looking forward to returning to Sallerton soon."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thank you very much indeed for your kind comments, Seb, and we're very pleased that you and your son enjoyed the course and liked the environment in which it took place. We're looking forward to seeing one or both of you back at Sallerton Wood, and when you do return, remember the Return Booking Discount, currently standing at 15%!"

1 Jul 19'

Bobby reviewed: Introduction to green woodworking at Sallerton Wood

"Really great course. I booked the Intro course and the Shave Horse course together with a day free in between. Andy tailored the course to suit everyone, complete beginners and those like me with some experience. There were a couple of us who were staying on for the Shave Horse course so we were given ample opportunity to practise our pole lathe skills ready for the weekend! Andy is a great teacher and a very generous and trusting individual and I recommend his courses to anyone new to or looking to get into green woodwork."

Sallerton Wood responded:

"Thanks, Bobby, for your kind review, and for taking the time to review both of the courses you attended recently. We're glad that you enjoyed both courses, and we look forward to seeing you back at Sallerton Wood before long."