Learn at the forge
Two-Day Axe Making Course
Dates coming soon
£350.00 Per person
Our 2027 dates are being prepared. Leave your details to enquire about this course. This is not a booking and no payment is taken.
Register your interestAbout this course
We’re preparing our 2027 course programme. Explore the course below and contact us to register your interest. Bookings will open once dates are confirmed.
Forge, shape, heat treat and assemble your own working axe over two practical days at Friargate Forge.
What you will learn
Work with hammers, tongs and other hand tools, with guided use of the power hammer and hydraulic press. Explore normalising, hardening and tempering as you develop your axe.
Who it is for
Suitable for complete beginners and intermediate smiths developing their tool-making skills.
What is included
Materials, necessary PPE and refreshments. Lunch is not included.
Your tutor and venue
Learn with Gary Birtwistle at Friargate Forge, Unit 6, Cuerden Green Mill, Sherdley Road, Lostock Hall, Preston, PR5 5LP.
Group size
Minimum 3 participants; maximum 10 participants per course.
Dates and booking
Dates coming soon — bookings are not yet open.
What to wear
Please wear non-synthetic clothing and boots or similar footwear. Absolutely no shorts or open shoes.
Lunch
Bring a packed lunch, or use the local amenities for lunch.
Finding the forge
Follow your sat nav to Sherdley Road Industrial Estate, PR5 5LP. Entrance is via the large shutter on the mill — the tallest building.
Cancellation and changes
If you need to cancel, please contact us as soon as possible. A full refund is available where cancellation is received at least 14 days before the course starts.
For cancellations within 14 days, refunds are reviewed against reasonable losses after taking account of costs saved and whether the place can be filled. Any date transfer is subject to availability and agreement.
If Friargate Forge cancels a course, we will offer a full refund or the option to move to another available date.
Gift voucher cancellations and validity require separate confirmation. Nothing in this policy affects your statutory rights.
Register your interest
Two-Day Axe Making Course