Wetlands Workshop: Introduction to Scything

People using scythes to maintain the reedbeds at Woodberry Wetlands. Buildings can be seen in the background.

Reedbed maintenance at Woodberry Wetlands

Photo credit: Aziz Rahman

Wetlands Workshop: Introduction to Scything

Location:
Book
Join us for a two-hour session focusing on the ancient art of scything at the nature reserve.

Event details

Meeting point

Engine House visitor centre (what3words is ///sweat.goats.advice)

Date

Time
10:30am - 1:30pm
A static map of Wetlands Workshop: Introduction to Scything

About the event

The biannual meadow cutting has begun again at Walthamstow Wetlands nature reserve. London Wildlife Trust manages the smaller meadows around site using hand tools and traditional methods, such as the Austrian scythe.

Come and try your hand at scything one of our wildflower meadows under the supervision of our Visitor Engagement Officer Lora. We will talk about the history and origin of this efficient hand tool (believed to be ~2000 years old), assembly of the scythe and how to care for it. We will also be using a wide range of other tools during the session.

Please bring a bottle of water and wear sensible clothing and footwear (attendees with open-toe shoes will not be allowed to participate in the session).

No experience is necessary, all tools and training will be provided prior to the session.

This event aimed at people aged over 18. Joining instructions will be sent out prior to the event.

All profits from this event are invested into London Wildlife Trust’s wider nature recovery work across London.

Booking

Price

£35

Additional booking information

London Wildlife Trust will refund the full ticket value only (£35) if requested 7 days before the event.

Suitable for

Adults, Beginners

Know before you go

Dogs

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Assistance dogs only

Please be advised that trained assistance dogs on duty are welcome, but in order to protect the sensitive habitat and drinking water supply, we cannot allow other dogs or pets of any kind on-site, as the wildlife may become distressed.

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Mobility

We will be walking on a gravel path with some gentle inclines.

There is a bench near the area where the session will take place. 

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Wheelchair access

There are accessible trails around the reserve, as well as ramps leading to the café, toilets and shop area.
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What to bring

- a bottle of water

- wear sensible clothing and footwear (attendees with open-toe shoes will not be allowed to participate in the session)

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Parking information

There is a paid car park on site, 9.30am - 4pm
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Bicycle parking

Next to the Engine House visitor centre and on the north side of reserve
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Facilities

Toilets
Shop
Cafe/refreshments
Picnic area
Accessible toilet
Baby changing facilities
Disabled parking
Accessible trails

Contact us

The Visitor Engagement Team