Frequently Asked Questions

 

Where is Hidden Woods located?

Our woodland camp is located just off the A36, approximately half way between Bath and Frome, so very easy to reach from both (10-15 mins), as well as Trowbridge, Bradford-on-Avon, Radstock and Warminster. The postcode for the entrance to the woods is BA2 7NH. We will send you detailed maps and directions with your booking confirmation.

What about the weather?

As a wise woodsman once said, there’s no such thing as bad weather, just inappropriate clothing (more on clothing below!). Our events/sessions are designed to be equally enjoyable come rain or shine. The camps have large group shelters with fire pits, where we can get up to all sorts of activities whilst protected from the elements. In the event of very strong winds or overhead lightning we relocate to our fantastic A-frame shelter at Base Camp, which is located out of the trees. Events/sessions will continue to run unless deemed unsafe by Hidden Woods, so please do turn up with appropriate clothing and an adventurous spirit!

What clothing & equipment will we need?

All participants must wear/bring the clothing and items listed below. Remember, they should be fairly tough and nothing you mind getting muddy!

  • Wellington boots

  • Boot socks

  • Long trousers (not jeans)

  • Top layers incl. jumper

  • Waterproof trousers

  • Waterproof jacket

  • Warm hat and gloves

  • Complete change of clothes (incl. shoes) for the journey home!

  • Water bottle

What about food?

For birthday parties, we provide marshmallows on sticks as part of the activity. You’re very welcome to bring any other food you’d like with you too. We recommend a tub of pre-cooked sausages, some bread rolls and squirty ketchup. We have a pan and tongs to sizzle those back up on the campfire. It keeps things simple and is always very popular!

School holiday clubs may also include an element of campfire cooking, but this is not substitute lunch. Participants should bring a packed lunch each day with enough sustenance to see them through a physical day in the outdoors! Please bring a full water bottle too.

If you’re coming along to a Saplings toddler session, then you might like to bring a snack to go on the table for everyone to share (e.g. fruit, cake, breadsticks). However, it’s not a problem if you can’t always do so! We provide hot drinks for all Saplings sessions.

Who will lead the event?

The event will be led by an experienced Hidden Woods leader (or more as appropriate). Our team is made up of a number of full-time professional Forest School and Play Leaders, with enhanced CRB/DBS disclosure and appropriate first aid qualifications. Rest assured you couldn’t be in better hands, and we go further than the country mile to ensure that all visitors to Hidden Woods have a safe, fun and inspiring time.

Is it safe?

Hidden Woods events can involve bushcraft, woodland play, campfire cooking, crafts and more, and are all conducted in a dynamic wilderness setting. There is therefore inevitably a risk of injury when undertaking such activities. Hidden Woods have taken all reasonably practicable steps to mitigate these risks, and regularly review our systems and practices to ensure that we conduct these activities as safely as possible. Our woodland site and activities have all been risk assessed and all appropriate control measures put in place, including first aid qualified staff with appropriate kits available at all times. Our site safety handbook contains a comprehensive list of policies and procedures to keep participants safe whilst supporting the developmental aims of our sessions.

Do you have insurance?

Yes, we have Public Liability insurance up to £5,000,000, underwritten by a Lloyd’s of London syndicate.

Is there any paperwork to complete?

For events/sessions booked online, you will provide us with all the necessary information and sign the risk declaration during that process. For birthday parties, school visits and other events which are booked by contacting us, we will provide you with the necessary booking and consent forms.

Are there any toilets on site?

Yes, we have a lovely wooden Treebog (composting toilet), which is a real hit with our visitors! It’s nice and clean and even has a view (out, not in). It’s located close to the Base Camp area and is easily accessed from all our permanent camps.

I'm no Ray Mears, is this for me?

We love introducing people to bushcraft and outdoor adventure at all levels, including the very basics. It in no way depends on physical fitness, and we firmly believe in setting participants up to succeed, which results in fun, rewarding experiences. So, as long as you have a sense of adventure and curiosity, you’re half way there and we look forward to welcoming you to the woods!

What about medical conditions/special needs?

We strive to make our events as inclusive as possible and always do our best to accommodate individuals’ specific needs. If you or someone in your group has a medical condition or special needs then please contact us to discuss this further.

What is your cancellation policy?

Events must be paid for in full at the time of booking. Our cancellation policy is slightly different for the various events/sessions that we offer. Please do check our terms & conditions of booking for more information.

In the event of inclement weather or other wild factors, it will be at Hidden Woods’ sole discretion as to whether an event is cancelled. This will only occur if there is a safety risk. In these circumstances Hidden Woods will offer either an alternative session/date where possible, or a full refund.