THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Discover the ancient art of broom making just outside Belfast in this immersive workshop. Learn to craft a traditional besom broom while enjoying lively Irish folklore stories in celebration of Samhain.
Discover the ancient art of broom making just outside Belfast in this immersive workshop. Learn to craft a traditional besom broom while enjoying lively Irish folklore stories in celebration of Samhain.
Book with AnDroichead
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by AnDroichead · Belfast, Northern Ireland
Just a short trip from Belfast, Northern Ireland, the Besom Broom Making Workshop at Ceardlann Déanta na Scuab Caillí invites adventurers and craft enthusiasts alike to engage with an ancient tradition. This full-day workshop held in the crisp air before Samhain offers more than just crafting—it’s an immersive dive into the folklore and cultural heritage of the Irish countryside. Stepping onto the grounds of this unique workshop, you’ll find yourself among sustainably sourced twigs and natural broomcorn, ready to be shaped into a traditional besom broom, just as generations have done before.
Heather McDermott, the skilled artisan leading this experience, weaves storytelling into the session, bringing to life old legends and customs around this time of year, known for celebrating the thinning veil between worlds. It’s a remarkable chance to connect with the rhythms of the seasons, the earth’s materials, and community spirit. Unlike standard craft workshops, this one situates you in a living tradition, where every sweep of the broom is symbolic and functional.
The workshop takes place in an authentic rural setting near Belfast, in Northern Ireland’s lush landscapes marked by gentle hills and rich folklore heritage. Participants will be guided step-by-step through selecting, preparing, and assembling their own besom broom, a craft rooted deeply in Celtic and Gaelic traditions. The use of sustainable, locally harvested materials underscores a commitment to environmental respect, making this workshop not only a cultural journey but an eco-conscious choice.
The timing around Samhain adds a seasonal layer of magic and reflection, drawing visitors who appreciate history, hands-on skills, and storytelling. Whether you’re a traveler seeking unique local experiences or a maker wanting to hone traditional skills, this workshop is a standout opportunity. It offers a tangible link to Ireland’s outdoor cultural landscape, where nature and myth intertwine.
Attending means walking away not just with a handmade broom, but with stories, a stronger connection to Irish heritage, and an appreciation for the craftspeople keeping these practices alive. Limited spaces ensure an intimate, engaging experience.
If you’re visiting Belfast and want to tap into Irish roots and seasonal traditions, the Besom Broom Making Workshop offers a rare window into local crafts and folklore against the backdrop of Northern Ireland’s scenic outdoors. It’s perfect for those wanting an authentic, hands-on cultural experience paired with a hint of Samhain mystery.
easy.
5–6 hours.
Suitable for all fitness levels; requires standing and light manual dexterity.
No prior experience is needed; Heather guides you through each step regardless of skill level.
This particular workshop is designed for adults due to the nature of tools used and session length.
Yes, all materials are locally sourced with sustainable harvesting practices to protect the environment.
The indoor workspace ensures the workshop proceeds comfortably even in inclement weather.
Absolutely—you’ll finish the day with your own handcrafted besom broom to keep.
Yes, on-site parking is available for participants arriving by car.
Besom broom making has ancient roots tied to Celtic traditions, often associated with seasonal rituals like Samhain.
The workshop emphasizes sustainable harvesting and encourages participants to respect local ecosystems during outdoor activities.
An Droichead is a Belfast-based cultural and language provider delivering accredited Irish language programmes, short courses, immersive intensives and guided traditional-music experiences. Located in Belfast, Northern Ireland, An Droichead provides a clear progression from beginners’ courses (Bunrang levels) through step-up and intermediate classes to accredited qualifications such as AS Irish, A2 Irish (A Level) and GCSE Irish. Course formats include one-year accredited programmes that culminate in formal examinations, ten-week term courses for beginners and intermediates, and two-day immersion packages for rapid revision or introduction. Several courses offer flexible attendance with both online and in-person options. The Belfast Traditional Music Trail is a 2.5-hour guided walk led by professional musicians featuring live performances, local stories and visits to historic sites. Special events include concerts featuring renowned musicians and practical cultural workshops such as the Besom Broom Making Workshop (Ceardlann Déanta na Scuab Caillí). An Droichead emphasises structured curriculum and accredited pathways where specified, clear timelines for term-based and annual programmes (September starts and formal examinations by June for some qualifications), and both short-form and longer-form learning options. The organisation works with qualified instructors and professional musicians to deliver language learning and cultural experiences designed for adult learners, qualifying students and community participants seeking to connect with Irish language and traditional culture.
Book with AnDroichead