Programme of nature and craft workshops for the summer at Bere Marsh Farm, Shillingstone

We've got so many exciting events and workshops coming up this summer in the beautiful surroundings of Bere Marsh Farm, near Shillingstone, Dorset, that we thought it would be a good idea to share them all with you in one place! 

Each of the events, all inspired by nature, will run through until September and is led by an expert with a wealth of knowledge to share.  

The series also includes a free weekly summer programme throughout August, perfect for individuals and families looking to engage with nature in a relaxed and creative way. 

Free Weekly Summer Programme – August 

Visitors are welcome to drop in and enjoy a selection of free activities at Bere Marsh Farm every week during August: 

• Drawing in Nature - Wednesdays, 10am–1pm 

• Reading in the Countryside - Thursdays, 12pm–2.30pm 

• Nature Journalling - Fridays, 8.30am–12pm 

Children are warmly welcome, but must be accompanied by an adult 

Charlotte Weatherley, Farm Estate and Community Officer at Bere Marsh Farm, said: “We’re really excited about the summer at Bere Marsh Farm. Whether you’re looking to slow down and enjoy our free weekly sessions or dive into one of our expert-led workshops, there’s something for everyone. We look forward to welcoming visitors of all ages to explore, learn, and be inspired by nature.” 

Workshop Highlights 

Wildlife Filmmaker 
Friday, August 1 | 10am–1pm 
Led by award-winning wildlife filmmaker Graham Hatherley, this hands-on workshop is designed for young people aged 12–16. Participants will learn practical filming techniques and discover how wildlife filmmaking can support conservation. Using the farm’s diverse habitats as a natural studio, they'll gain skills they can apply using phones or cameras. 

Learning Together: What’s in the Water? 
Saturday, August 10 | Sessions at 10am–12pm & 12pm–2pm 
Dive into the hidden world of freshwater ecosystems with pond dipping at Drove Pond and kick sampling in the River Stour. CRT’s expert team will lead the sessions, with special guest Jane Adams, nature writer, academic, and author, sharing insights throughout the day. Jane will also lead a peaceful nature journalling session from 2.30pm–3pm. 

Wonderful Wool 
Saturday, August 16 | 10.30am–12.30pm 
Join Jo Nash of Dorset Wool for an introduction to natural dyeing using plants grown in her own garden. The session includes a talk on sustainable dye practices, a farm walk, and even a slice of shearing cake! 

Discovering Bats in Autumn 
Saturday, September 13 | 7pm–9pm 
Explore the twilight world of bats with Mariko Whyte, from the Dorset Bat Group. Using heterodyne bat detectors, attendees will learn about these fascinating nocturnal animals. This family-friendly walk is suitable for children aged 8+ (accompanied by an adult). Please wear sturdy, waterproof footwear and bring a head or handheld torch 

To book onto any of our events, please go to www.thecrt.co.uk/Pages/Events/ 

How to support us

If you want to help us protect local wildlife and habitats, you can join as a CRT Friend, attend our in-person and online events and volunteer on one of our farms. You can also sign-up to our monthly newsletter 'CRT News' for regular updates from our farms, straight to your inbox.