Fenland & Wash Group Working Party at Wangford Hall

Event details

Saturday 20 - Monday 22 September

This Working Party organised by the Fenland & Wash Group, is an exciting opportunity to get hands-on and save a piece of history, while learning some traditional craft skills along the way!

Following our successful Working Parties in 2024 and in May this year we'll continue to repair the historic garden boundary walls at Wangford Hall and make a start on the walls of some of the ancillary buildings on site which have sadly suffered neglect over the years.

Under the guidance of specialists, you'll learn how to repair a wall using traditional materials including flint, chalk block, and brick.

There is space to camp on site although the facilities are somewhat rudimentary!

If you can't attend the full three days you're still very welcome to join us.

After booking, please email fenland.wash@spab.org.uk to confirm which days you'll be there and whether you are planning to camp on site as this will help with our planning.

Who is this event for?

This event is for anyone who want to get their hands dirty, learn new skills, and help to save a piece of history.

You will learn 

By the end of this Working Party, you will have had the chance to try: 

• Lime mortar mixing

• Chalk block cutting

• Flint knapping

• Brickwork repair
   

Programme 

This programme is subject to minor changes.

Day One

Day Two

Day Three

You will need 

• Work clothes and steel toe capped boots  
• Tent and camping gear if camping 
• Weather-appropriate clothing, suncream etc

Hard hats, high-vis vests and goggles will be provided.

Tutors

• Joe Orsi,  blacksmith and historic buildings consultant
• Lynn Mathias, brick and flint conservation specialist and SPAB Guardian

Accessibility

The conditions at this event are likely to include:

• Uneven surfaces
• Significant periods of standing, walking and kneeling
• Time spent working outdoors
• Loud noises
• Catering for dietary restrictions, if indicated on the booking form
• Sadly, dogs (except support dogs) are not allowed on site.

Anything we can do to make this event more accessible for you? Please email membership@spab.org.uk. 

We may take photos or videos at this event to be used in future promotion, including in print and online.

All bookings are subject to our Terms and Conditions. 

Photo credit: Wangford Hall historic wall © Jonathan Garlick