Courses

Minstead Study Centre provides educational nature experiences for adults. Throughout the year we run a range of courses based in and around our site. Previous courses have included breadmaking, fruit pruning, willow sculpture and wreathmaking.

Keep an eye on this page, as new and exciting courses will be added for Autumn.

If you are a trainer looking for a venue to run your courses, we’d love to work with you.

Contact the Minstead Study Centre team to learn more.

Teacher Open Afternoon

Friday 13 November 2026 and Friday 4 December 2026 | 1.30pm to 3pm or 3.30pm to 5pm

Come and spend a relaxing afternoon with us at Minstead Study Centre and discover the magic of the New Forest learning environment.

Book a Teacher open afternoon
Children amongst trees looking at a map

Christmas wreath making

Sunday 6 December 2026 | 10am to midday | £36
or Sunday 6 December 2026 | 1pm to 3pm | £36

Whether you're a complete beginner or have experience with floristry, this relaxed and enjoyable session is the perfect opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit, learn a new skill, and spend time in the beautiful surroundings of the New Forest.

Book Christmas wreath making
Participants of a wreath-making course holding their festive wreaths

Fruit Pruning

Saturday 6 February 2027 | 10am to 3pm | £65

Whether you're looking to improve the productivity of your fruit trees or gain confidence in maintaining your garden, this hands-on workshop will provide expert guidance and plenty of practical experience.

Book fruit pruning
Ripe green apples on a tree waiting to be picked

Holiday Activities and Food Programme (HAF)

Ages 8 to 11 | 10:30am to 3:30pm

We’re delighted to be part of Hampshire County Council’s Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) Programme. Through HAF, children who receive Benefit-Related Free School Meals can enjoy a range of exciting holiday activities completely free of charge giving them plenty of opportunities for fun, adventure, and new experiences.


Tetra Pak Printing Workshop

Sunday 7 February 2027 9.30am – 12.30pm and 1.30pm – 4.30pm | £45

Join artist  Alison Butler for a creative and sustainable printmaking workshop exploring the fascinating art of Tetra Pak printing.

No previous printmaking experience is required.

Book Tetra Pak printing
Etching a Tetrapak

Driftwood Heart or Star Workshop

Saturday 13 February 2027 | 1pm to 4pm | £50

Join Dan Wakeman for a fantastic creative workshop where you'll make your own driftwood heart or star.

  • All materials and tools are provided
  • Suitable for beginners and experienced crafters alike
  • Tea, coffee and refreshments included
Book driftwood heart or star making
A star made from driftwood

Driftwood XXL Valentine's Heart Workshop for Couples

Sunday 14 February 2027 | 9am to midday | £80 (per couple)
or Sunday 14 February 2027 | 1pm to 4pm | £80 (per couple)

Join Dan Wakeman for a special Valentine's workshop designed for couples to enjoy together.

  • Designed specifically for couples
  • All materials and tools are provided
  • Suitable for beginners and experienced crafters alike
  • Tea, coffee and refreshments included
  • Expert tuition from Dan throughout the workshop
Book Driftwood XXL Valentine's Heart Workshop
A heart made from driftwood

Driftwood Sea Creatures Workshop

Friday 12 February 2027 | 6pm to 9pm | £50
or Saturday 13 February 2027 | 9am to midday | £50

Join Dan Wakeman for a fantastic creative workshop where you'll create your own stunning driftwood sea creature.

  • Suitable for beginners and experienced crafters alike
  • All materials and equipment provided
  • Step-by-step guidance from Dan throughout the session
  • Refreshments available during the workshop
Book Driftwood Sea Creatures Workshop
Driftwood seahorse

Contact us

Contact the Minstead Study Centre team to check available dates and relevant pricing, or for any further information.

Email: [email protected]
Phone: 02380 813437