Do I need previous experience to participate?

No prior experience is required; all necessary skills and safety instructions are taught during the session.

What is the minimum age to join?

Participants must be 16 years or older to take part in The Lumberjack Experience.

Is there a maximum group size?

Group sizes are typically limited to maintain personalized instruction and ensure safety, please check availability when booking.

Wear sturdy closed-toe boots, weather-appropriate layered clothing, and bring gloves if you have them—work gloves are highly recommended and often provided.

Are meals provided during the 8-hour adventure?

Meals are not included, so bringing snacks and water is advised, though breaks are built into the schedule.

Is the activity suitable for beginners?

Yes, the program is designed for beginners to develop skills safely under expert supervision.

Master the Art of Forestry on The Lumberjack Experience in Shirwell, England | Hiking

Located in the lush woodlands of Shirwell, England, The Lumberjack Experience offers a rare opportunity to step into the rugged world of forestry with hands-on training and thrilling challenges. Just a short drive from Barnstaple, this full-day, 8-hour adventure places you at the heart of traditional lumberjack skills amidst one of the region’s most scenic forested landscapes. Here, the ancient craft of tree felling, axe throwing, and firewood splitting comes alive under the guidance of seasoned experts who ensure safety without diluting the thrill.

The day begins with intensive chainsaw training where you'll learn the precision and care required to handle this powerful tool. Shirwell’s woodlands are dominated by mature oak and ash trees, offering varied challenges as you practice felling techniques. After mastering the saw, the adventure moves to axe throwing and firewood splitting, testing your hand-eye coordination and strength in time-honored ways that echo centuries of forestry tradition in rural England.

Perhaps the most unique aspect of the experience is tree climbing. Using authentic ropes and harnesses, participants ascend towering trees to get a forest canopy’s-eye view — an exhilarating perspective rarely available to the average visitor. These trees represent more than just nature; they are part of a historic working landscape that has contributed to the local economy and culture for generations.

What sets The Lumberjack Experience apart is its emphasis on authenticity combined with modern safety standards. It’s not just an activity but a deep dive into a lifestyle that shaped the English countryside. Whether you have a passion for woodworking, outdoor adventure, or simply want a memorable way to exercise, this trip delivers adrenaline and education in equal measure.

Since the site is located near Barnstaple, visitors can easily extend their stay to explore North Devon’s rolling hills, rugged coastlines, and charming market towns. The area is also known for conservation efforts protecting native species and woodland habitats, making this experience a respectful nod to nature.

If you’re seeking a physically rewarding activity that challenges you mentally and pushes your boundaries in a safe, instructional environment, The Lumberjack Experience is unmatched in the UK’s outdoor adventure portfolio. It’s a raw, real, and rewarding day in the forest that connects you with centuries of English forestry heritage.

Nearby: Barnstaple, England.

Book your spot and carve out your own forestry story at The Lumberjack Experience.

About Coastline Sports

Coastline Sports is an outdoor activity provider based in Croyde, England, operating on the North Devon coast. The company runs guided coasteering, surfing lessons, rock climbing and abseiling sessions at Croyde Bay and the Valley of Rocks, plus a land-based Lumberjack Experience. Each activity is tailored to group size and participant ability, with sessions led by expert or qualified instructors who provide safety briefings, equipment, and skill coaching. Coastline Sports focuses on hands-on instruction for beginners through experienced participants, offering 2.5‑hour coasteering adventures, 2.5–3 hour climbing and abseiling experiences, and structured surf lessons suitable for all levels. The Lumberjack Experience combines chainsaw training, tree felling basics, axe throwing, firewood splitting, and traditional tree-climbing techniques in a supervised setting.

Safety and local knowledge are emphasized across trip descriptions, with instructors guiding route choice, jumps, and technical rope work to match participant experience. Activities take place at recognized local venues — Croyde Bay and the Valley of Rocks — known for accessible shorelines and coastal climbing terrain. Gear, supervision, and instructional focus are noted for each trip offering. Booking information, group tailoring, and weather considerations are part of the activity summaries provided. Coastline Sports presents a range of coastal and woodland adventures intended to deliver memorable, skill-building outdoor experiences while prioritizing instructor-led safety and location-specific expertise.

Trip descriptions reference route choice, jumps, and technical rope work adapted to conditions and participant ability. Sessions include safety briefings and appropriate equipment for coastal and woodland settings. Instructors focus on progression and confidence.