As the seasons begin to turn, the woodland on the Llanforda Estate takes on a different feel. The days are noticeably longer, the footpaths become busier, and there’s a sense that people are ready to be outdoors again. For Woodland Roots, which is based there, this shift marks a natural point to reflect on the year ahead and how people are choosing to spend their time outside.
Founded and run by local outdoor instructor Tom Wright, Woodland Roots is centred around helping people spend time outdoors in ways that feel practical, engaging and well supported. Working with schools, young people, families, adults, and organisations, the emphasis is on learning through doing and making the most of time spent outside.
Much of the work involves supporting young people as they develop and build on outdoor skills. School and youth group sessions might include fire lighting, shelter building or campcraft, but the value often comes from how those skills are learned. Working together, making decisions and taking responsibility are all part of the experience, alongside a strong focus on safety and respect for the woodland environment.
Adults come to Woodland Roots for a variety of reasons. Some are keen outdoor enthusiasts looking to develop their skills, while others are simply looking for a change of pace from everyday routines. Spending time outdoors, working with hands and materials, tends to shift attention away from screens and schedules and onto what’s happening in the moment.
This year, Woodland Roots is expanding its programme with the introduction of Cook and Camp sessions, which invite participants to build their own shelters, cook over an open fire and spend the night outdoors. Some sessions are designed for families, while others are aimed at adults only, offering a more immersive experience and time to settle into the rhythm of the woods.
Holiday sessions continue to be an important part of the work with younger people. Woodland Roots is running its Summer Bushcraft Week again this year, alongside the launch of a new Easter Bushcraft Club, giving young people the opportunity to spend their school holidays, developing skills and confidence in a familiar setting.
Woodland Roots also now offers accredited Outdoor First Aid and Emergency Outdoor First Aid courses. Aimed at outdoor enthusiasts through to those working professionally outside, they focus on building practical skills and confidence for situations where help may not be immediately available.
There is also growing interest from organisations and businesses looking for team days that offer something different. These sessions are carefully facilitated, with a focus on shared tasks and time outdoors, creating a setting that often encourages better communication and collaboration.
As spring moves into summer, the woodland remains at the centre of Woodland Roots’ work — a place where fires are built, shelters take shape and people leave with muddy boots and new skills. It’s a straightforward approach, but one that continues to resonate with those looking to make the most of their time outdoors.
For more information visit www.woodlandroots.co.uk or email hello@woodlandroots.co.uk
