The art of living in the wild is something that holds a fascination for just about everyone.

From Robinson Crusoe and Lord of the Flies to TV’s I’m a Celebrity, Get Me Out of Here, surviving without any of the home comforts we are so used to is a compelling concept.

In recent years, bushcraft has become popular thanks to survival specialists Ray Mears and Bear Grylls and their various television programmes. Part of the appeal has to be because so many people today live in urban areas and bushcraft offers a great way in which they can become reconnected to nature. But no matter where we live, many of us have lost sight of essential skills that our ancestors would have relied on in their day-to-day lives.

What does bushcraft mean?

The term bushcraft originated in Australia and refers to the skills necessary to survive – and thrive – in the Australian bush. Bushcraft classes are all about developing those skills and knowledge, from building and lighting a fire and shelter building to foraging for food, finding water and using found and natural materials for other purposes eg making twine.

Sounds easy? Well it’s certainly easy to laugh at the epic failures so often evident on reality TV shows. But get lost in the great outdoors as the light is fading and it’s beginning to rain and you’d be very glad to be able to quickly find materials that will help you get a fire going. Of course, the odds of that happening are relatively low, but wouldn’t it be good to have a greater awareness of how to look after yourself outdoors?

Become a true survivor on our one-day bushcraft course

Step out of your comfort zone and challenge yourself for a day. Our one-day bushcraft course will test your resilience and resourcefulness as you learn essential survival skills. Get it right and you’ll be able to enjoy using your new-found skills to cook your own lunch on the fire you’ve made. Don’t worry, we won’t just throw you in to the woods in the hope that you’ll work out how to fend for yourself! The course is led by Mark, our qualified bushcraft instructor and he’ll guide you throughout the day.

Puzzlewood’s bushcraft course is a brilliant team-building activity

Up to eight people can take part in the course, which makes it a really good option if you’re looking for a team-building activity. You will essentially be working together for a common cause, and effective teamwork within the workplace is what makes business thrive – a fun day out could deliver very positive results back in the office.

Bushcraft is also good fun for stag and hen parties, or perhaps you just fancy getting a group of friends together to do something completely different – a refreshing change to going to the pub or cinema. The course runs throughout the year – wait for the warmer months or step it up a notch and see how quickly you can master bushcraft skills in the cold!