Come and learn the traditional, endangered craft of skep making at our beautiful Horsepool Apiary in southeast Cornwall.

A skep is a straw or reed beehive, one historically made with locally grown straw and rushes. While straw skeps are now less common, having been replaced by more convinient hive alternatives, straw weaving remains as a valued craft for other purposes. Our expert skep-maker and straw weaver, Robbie, will talk you through the history of this beautiful heritage craft while teaching you everything you need to know about straw weaving, enabling you to begin creating your own baskets and skeps.

You will be provided with enough straw and bindings to complete your own basket, and, if you don't complete it on the day, you can take enough home with you to finish the job. You'll also get to meet the bees we keep on our apiary, growing your understanding of the important role they play in sustaining our environment, as well as learning the rich history of this Red Listed craft.

This course takes place at our education centre in Cornwall between 10am and 3pm. All essential equipment will be supplied and we simply advise that you dress appropriately for the weather. Logistics for the event, including meeting points and parking information, will be emailed soon after your booking is made.

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Disclaimer: If a course is cancelled by the Family Foraging Kitchen, such as in the event of unsuitable weather conditions, alternative dates will be made available, as well as the option of a full refund. Customers are also welcome to swap their booking for another course (subject to availability) or request a refund until seven days before the course takes place. Following this time, we will be unable to offer a refund (except in certain cases) as it is unlikely we will be able to fill the course.