Longbow making weekend

We offer the opportunity to make a longbow in a weekend. We start on a Friday evening by laminating three woods together – usually hickory, lemon wood and purple heart. Over the next two days we tiller the bow and making a string. All bows have horn knocks. If you are over 6 foot please let us know when you book your place.

The weekends start on Friday evening at 7–9.30 when you will laminate the woods. On Saturday and Sunday the hours are 9.30–5.00 and we are delighted that we have been awarded a gold star by Craft Courses for our knife and bow weekends. The weekend costs £350 and we ask for a deposit of £100 on booking with the remaining money due on the Friday of the weekend.

We will provide teas and coffees but ask you to provide your own lunch. We are based in the centre of Nailsworth where there are many shops and cafes.

You can also make a longbow at our open workshops.

One of our participants recently made this time laps film of the weekend. It give a great idea of the process including the tea breaks! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=efZvqXz_bEY 

Archery UK article

In June 2022 there was an article about the weekend in Archery UK.

“I cannot fully express in words how amazing the weekend was. I knew it would be fun, but it was higher than my expectations. From the depth of knowledge that Gavin and Tom have, their presentation and how they worked with us. Mostly newbies to making things let alone a longbow. Their sense of humour and banter made it all more enjoyable. We were helped every step of the way and we all walked away with working bows. Can’t wait to start using it. I’m tempted to book again.”