Blacksmithing Taster Session

A short blacksmithing session where you will make your own poker.

This short taster session delivered by Johnny Drummond of Ben’s Hollow Forge will offer an introduction to the basic skills of blacksmithing. You will get an opportunity to forge your own poker to take home, using traditional tools and methods. All materials and PPE will be provided. No experience necessary!

This workshop is being delivered as part of the All Ireland Heritage Skills Programme public events series, supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. These workshops aim to increase opportunities for everyone to get involved with and learn more about heritage skills.

Who should attend?

This taster day is suitable for anyone with an interest in blacksmithing, who would like the opportunity to have a go and pick up basic skills. No experience is required, and you will be guided by experienced craftspeople.

Date: Thursday 19th March 2026

Morning Session: 10am-12.30pm

Afternoon Session: 1pm-3.30pm

Please note: The content and entry level of both sessions is the same. Tickets cover one session only, therefore please ensure you select the ticket for the session you wish to attend.

Places are limited to 6 attendees per session in order to maximise participant learning and safety. If you are no longer able to attend, please notify the organiser as soon as possible to allow your place to be released.

Important information for attendees:

This event is limited to a maximum of six attendees at one time. Please be aware that this taster day is taking place in a working forge. Attendees should wear sensible thick-soled hiking/work boots and sensible non-flammable clothes, participants should wear a cotton t-shirt and cotton sweatshirt and jeans/work trousers that are wide enough to cover the top of the boots i.e. no fleeces or shell suits. PPE will be provided. Also bring water, and canteen and toilet facilities are available. The sessions are open to those aged 16 and over.

Getting here:

There is on-site parking at the forge. The forge is located in 56a Carraloan Road, Magherafelt, BT45 6NF (signage will be at forge carpark on the day). There is a bus stop across from the end of the road (at Ballyronan Road), please contact Translink for bus number to Ballyronan and the Monday to Friday timetable. Please note that use of public transport would involve some road walking.

Trainers Overview:

The session will be led by Johnny Drummond of Ben’s Hollow Forge. Johnny is an experienced heritage blacksmith and tutor, and runs regular classes in County Tyrone, as well as being the resident blacksmith at the Ulster American Folk Park where he demonstrates to the public and public events. Johnny is a past graduate of the All Ireland Heritage Skills Programme.