At Meidrim Meadows, we love to personally try the activities we recommend to our guests. So when the opportunity arose to go on a traditional blacksmith experience course, Ian stepped up to the anvil and took one for the team. He joined a small group for a hands-on course with second-generation Welsh blacksmith Aaron Petersen.

Try a blacksmithing course near Meidrim

The forge is located in St Clears, just a short drive from Meidrim Meadows, making it an easy and enjoyable addition to your glamping break in West Wales. It’s the perfect way to spend a day trying something new before returning to your shepherd’s hut to relax under the stars.

Meet the Blacksmith

Coming from a family of artist blacksmiths, Aaron has been wielding a hammer since he could lift one. He was once the resident smith at the Museum of Welsh Life and brings decades of experience to his work, along with a natural flair for teaching. Having taught art and design from secondary school level up to degree level, Aaron knows how to explain techniques clearly and help learners of all abilities feel confident.

He now runs Found and Seek, where he sells his hand-forged creations and offers small, friendly blacksmithing courses that give everyone the chance to learn this traditional craft.

What to expect from a one-day Blacksmithing Course

On arrival, Ian and the two other participants, a young engineering student and a retired welder giving blacksmithing a go for fun, were kitted out with all the necessary safety gear, including a leather apron, gloves, a sleeve, and safety glasses.

Aaron began the day with an introduction to the forge. The workshop uses a gas forge, which is ideal for small groups and helps everyone get started quickly and safely. As he talked through the tools and techniques, Aaron shared stories, practical tips, and even recommended a few old books for anyone wanting to continue the craft at home.

Learn to make your own hand-forged creations

The first task was to make a set of hooks. Aaron demonstrated each step, shaping, hammering, and twisting the glowing metal with practiced ease, before letting the group have a go themselves. Under his patient guidance, everyone quickly gained confidence.

After lunch, it was time to take things up a notch by making a poker. This involved using the morning’s new skills to form the decorative handle, complete with a neat circular loop and twisted design.

The day flew by. Between the rhythmic sound of hammer on anvil and Aaron’s easy conversation, the forge had a calm and almost therapeutic atmosphere. As Ian put it, “We put the world to rights as we worked. I could easily have spent a week there; it was that enjoyable.”

By the end of the session, everyone had a collection of handmade items to take home and a new appreciation for this ancient craft.

Add something special to your glamping break

If you’re staying at Meidrim Meadows, Aaron’s one-day blacksmithing course in St Clears is a fantastic addition to your glamping experience in West Wales. Courses usually run at weekends and are limited to small groups, so there’s plenty of personal attention and time to learn at your own pace.

• It’s the perfect way to try something new, learn a traditional Welsh craft, and take home a unique memento from your stay. Whether you’re creative, hands-on, or simply looking for unique things to do during your glamping holiday, this blacksmithing experience is a memorable highlight that truly captures the spirit of West Wales.
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