events

Six weekly sessions, held on Tuesdays, 1 - 4pm, at Landport, Lewes

Taster session:  Tuesday 21 April, 2026 (come along and meet the team)

Session dates: 5th May, 12th May, 19th May, 2nd June, 9th June, 16th June. 

Did you know that spending time in nature can help calm us down or give us a lift? If you're struggling with low mood, loneliness, a difficult life event or simply want to feel part of something why not come along? The Lost Woods team invites you to join our free woodland wellbeing group for adults, to help you to learn to enjoy and connect with nature for improved wellbeing. This course is ideal for those who live in or near to Lewes and draws on the NHS 5 ways to Wellbeing framework;

• Connect with nature through activities that promote wellbeing
• Woodland crafts, wildlife surveying, light conservation work and more
• Meet new people and get to know your local woodland

Sessions are free and open to all but places are limited. Self-referrals are welcome as are referrals from GP's and social prescribers. For more information and to register your interest, contact lostwoodsteam@ruralsussex.org.uk or complete our form.

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Wednesday 20th May, Session 1: 10:00-12:00

Meeting point: Private Woodland, Hassocks - address will be confirmed to attendees in advance.

Join the Lost Woods of the Low Weald and Downs project for a unique, hands‑on experience learning how to make artists’ charcoal in a beautiful private woodland near Hassocks. Set within ancient woodland, this practical workshop will guide you through a simple, small‑scale charcoal‑making technique that transforms locally sourced wood into a sustainable, expressive art material.

Across this two‑hour session, you will be introduced to the Sussex's rich woodland heritage and take part in each stage of the charcoal‑making process. Under the guidance of experienced tutors, you will:

• Learn about the special characteristics of the area’s ancient woodlands
• Choose an appropriate site for preparing and firing charcoal
• Select and prepare suitable wood for the burn
• Light, monitor, and manage the burn safely
• Close down the burn correctly
• Unload, cool, and package your own handmade charcoal

Whether you are an artist, a woodland enthusiast, or simply curious about traditional craft skills, this session offers a rare opportunity to explore the connection between woodland management and the materials we use for creative expression. Come ready to get stuck in, learn something new, and enjoy a rewarding experience deep in the woods.

The Lost Woods has been made possible thanks to players of the #NationalLottery.

Wednesday 20th May, Session 2: 13:30 –15:30

Meeting point: Private Woodland, Hassocks - address will be confirmed to attendees in advance.

Join the Lost Woods of the Low Weald and Downs project for a unique, hands‑on experience learning how to make artists’ charcoal in a beautiful private woodland near Hassocks. Set within ancient woodland, this practical workshop will guide you through a simple, small‑scale charcoal‑making technique that transforms locally sourced wood into a sustainable, expressive art material.

Across this two‑hour session, you will be introduced to the Sussex's rich woodland heritage and take part in each stage of the charcoal‑making process. Under the guidance of experienced tutors, you will:

• Learn about the special characteristics of the area’s ancient woodlands
• Choose an appropriate site for preparing and firing charcoal
• Select and prepare suitable wood for the burn
• Light, monitor, and manage the burn safely
• Close down the burn correctly
• Unload, cool, and package your own handmade charcoal

Whether you are an artist, a woodland enthusiast, or simply curious about traditional craft skills, this session offers a rare opportunity to explore the connection between woodland management and the materials we use for creative expression. Come ready to get stuck in, learn something new, and enjoy a rewarding experience deep in the woods.

The Lost Woods has been made possible thanks to players of the #NationalLottery.

Date: Saturday 30th May, 11:30 –15:30

Meeting point: The Old Net Loft, 201 Kings Rd Arches, Brighton, BN1 1NB

Cost: Free

Step out of the festival crowds and into a pocket of creativity right by the waves. On Saturday 30th May, 11:30am–3:30pm, the Old Net Loft transforms into a buzzing hub for you to create, connect and celebrate the magic of woods, trees and wild imagination.

Wander through a lively mix of photography, creative arts, live music and spoken poetry, all led by inspiring young people. Chat with young creatives about their work, hear the stories behind their ideas, and even jump into mini workshops to try out something hands on yourself. There’s a buzz in the air, a friendly festival warmth, and more than enough to spark your imagination.

Woodland Trust and Lost Woods staff and volunteers will be there too, ready to share ways you can get involved in protecting the UK’s woods and trees, from volunteering to taking action in your own community.

It’s cosy, quirky, right on the seafront, and open to everyone. Drop in, soak up the atmosphere, and let a little woodland wonder drift into your day.  

(Please note: the venue can host a maximum of 60 people and is upstairs where lifts are not available.)

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This two-day course, on 1st and 2nd June, will help you to build the background knowledge needed to manage your woodland sustainably, and work towards creating resilient, productive woods.

The course will be tailored to your individual needs, and you are encouraged to share details of woodlands you are familiar with to aid your learning.

We will cover:

• types of woodlands in the UK
• protecting woodlands
• producing timber and wood
• legal responsibilities
• maximising positive impacts for biodiversity
• the future of woodland stewardship

Fee: £80

Suitable for: Beginners, improvers

What to wear: Sturdy shoes, clothes that you can get messy

What to bring: Paper and pen for taking notes

Learn how to create a short reel about your group or local woodland

Wednesday 24th June, 1pm - 4pm

Meeting point: Action in rural Sussex, 47 Western Road, Lewes, BN7 1RL

Want to tell the story of your group or local woodland in a simple, engaging way? Our free Lost Woods media training is a hands‑on opportunity to learn how to create a short video reel that shares your message clearly and creatively.

This in‑person workshop will help you turn your ideas and recordings into a finished short reel, with guidance and practical support from Ditzy Media.

You’ll use your own material to:

• Shape a clear message about your group or local woodland
• Learn simple video editing techniques
• Create a short reel ready to share online

This training is ideal for community groups, volunteers and local projects who want to build confidence using video to raise awareness and inspire others. Refreshments will be provided.

To find out more and book your place, email lostwoodsteam@ruralsussex.org.uk

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