Scything workshop
Learn the art of traditional scything in this hands-on, one-day outdoor workshop. Gain practical skills, from setting up and sharpening your scythe to cutting grass and managing meadows efficiently and safely—all guided by experienced tutors.
Course Content
This is a one-day outdoor workshop. The theory sessions will be taught in the shade of apple trees, or under a gazebo if the weather is poor.
We will explore how scythes can be used in various settings, such as lawns, fields, meadows, allotments, brambles, and more. Plenty of practical guidance from the tutor will help you become a confident scythe user.
The best time of year to do the course is the spring. Not only is the vegetation nicer to cut, but you’ve also got the year ahead to practice.
The workshop will look into the history and theory of scything. The course will focus on providing you with practical experience. As the number of participants is limited, you will receive individual guidance from the tutors.
Maintaining and using a variety of sharpening stones to hone (sharpen) the blade will be an important part of the course, and you will also be introduced to the art of ‘peening’ (profiling the blade).
We will cover selecting and setting up the scythe and snath (handle). You may choose to order your own scythe to have it ready for the day of the course (see below)
Do I need to buy a scythe?
We can lend you a scythe for the day if you don’t have your own.
You also have the option of buying your own scythe through us in time for the day of the course. A beginners set, which includes a snath (adjustable handle), a blade (of your choice under 65cm), sharpening stones and a peening jig costs £184. This will be a high quality Austrian scythe that we order via www.thescytheshop.co.uk
Stephan has worked closely with renowned scythesman Simon Fairlie for many years. We use and recommend the equipment he supplies. Simon imports Austrian Schröckenfux scythes, made since 1540. These are hand-forged blades that are recognised around the world as being of the highest quality. See www.thescytheshop.co.uk
If you buy your scythe in advance of the course you will benefit from the tutor’s expertise in setting it up on the day.
You can also purchase some kit, a blade or a snath on the day of the course. If you already have an idea of what you want, please let Stephan know beforehand.
If you are buying a scythe from us or borrowing one on the day, please let us know your height on the booking form.
Who is this course for?
This course is open to anyone aged 16 or over. It is suitable for complete beginners.
The workshop will be of interest to anyone with vegetation to cut, including gardeners, allotment holders and horticulturists.
Scything is a little less strenuous than one might expect, but please be aware that much of the work does involve twisting and moving of the back.
Why do we teach this course?
Our Scything Workshop shares traditional skills that are practical, sustainable, and rewarding. Scything can be meditative, helps you connect with nature, reduces reliance on fossil fuels, and supports soil health and carbon sequestration.
Course Tutors
Stephan Gehrels
Stephan an experienced scythesman who has been scything and teaching for many years. He is also passionate about permaculture and working with young people. He has successfully taught many people to scythe. Stephan has lots of experience of managing orchards and growing plots using a scythe.
Course reviews & feedback
This one-day workshop runs from 10 am to 4 pm in the orchards of Stanmer Park, Brighton.
2026 Courses
Venue
Stanmer Park (near University of Sussex)
Brighton
Map & Directions
Fees
Fees include tuition, refreshments, handouts and information sheets.
Sponsored / Organisation rate
£175
Individual income: more than 25k/yr
£175
Individual income: 18-25k/yr
£140
Individual income: less than 18k/yr
£105
Individual: Concessionary rate
£56
(check eligibility)
Concessionary places are limited.
Our commitment to affordability relies on voluntary support.
ACCOMMODATION
If you intend to book accommodation, please check availability before booking a place, as accommodation in Brighton can be hard to find, especially over the summer months.
Get details of local accommodation and Brighton Permaculture Trust supporters who can provide accommodation in their homes.
BOOKING
Booking is essential, as most of our courses/events are fully booked weeks in advance. However, if places are still available, then bookings can be made until midday the day before the course/event. A place is not secured until we have received the requested payment.
If you have completed the booking process but you haven’t received a confirmation email from us please contact us to check your booking has gone through.
If you are booking within two weeks of the event, or the event is nearly full, you will not have the option to pay by BACS. Instead, you will need to pay immediately using a credit/debit card or PayPal.
ACCESSIBILITY
This course will be entirely outdoors. If you have any accessibility needs or concerns, please contact us in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Have questions?
For any enquiries or if you need further information, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help!