Heritage Crafts: Charcoal Burn
Experience the heat, smoke and skill of traditional charcoal burning as our Charcoal Burn becomes part of this year’s Made By Hand weekend.
Across the weekend, the Weald & Downland Living Museum will come alive with traditional crafts, skilled makers and demonstrations celebrating the knowledge and techniques behind handmade objects. As part of the event, you’ll have the chance to see the fascinating process of charcoal burning in action.
Charcoal burning was once an important part of woodland life, transforming timber into a valuable fuel for homes, workshops and industries. It was a skilled process requiring patience, experience and a careful eye to keep the burn working as it should.
See the charcoal burn in progress, watch as our team tends the burn and discover more about the people who once made their living from Britain’s woodlands.
See a traditional craft in action
The Charcoal Burn is a living process, so what you see will depend on the stage of the burn when you visit. From preparing and tending the burn to the smoke rising across the Museum, it’s an opportunity to get closer to a historic woodland craft and discover the skill behind it. The Charcoal Burn forms part of our Made By Hand weekend, with even more traditional crafts, demonstrations and makers to discover across the Museum.
Information for Visitors
Discover 40 acres of history, nature, and countryside charm at the Weald & Downland Living Museum near Chichester, West Sussex. Explore our collection of historic buildings, working farm animals, and heritage gardens, and experience what rural life was like in centuries past.
Come Rain or Shine You Can Explore and Enjoy
Stroll through our beautiful open-air museum, where you can see authentic period homes, workshops, and barns set within the stunning South Downs landscape. Enjoy peaceful woodland walks, spot wildlife, or visit the woodland play area — perfect for children to explore and learn through play.
Meet Our Working Animals
Look out for our Heavy Horses, Sheep, and Ducks, who help bring the Museum to life. Visitors can even feed the ducks on the mill pond — grain can be purchased in the Museum shop.
Relax and Refuel
Take a break at our waterside café, serving delicious breakfast, brunch, and lunch options. You’re also welcome to bring a picnic, with plenty of scenic spots around the site to enjoy. During the warmer months, Shepherd’s Hut kiosks offer takeaway drinks and snacks around the Museum.
Useful Visitor Information
- Dogs on short leads are very welcome across the site.
- Free parking is available for all visitors.
- Please note: the Museum is a no-smoking site.
- Visitors with accessibility needs can find detailed information on our Accessibility page.
Please note that all activities and demonstrations are subject to change and may vary depending on the weather or season.
