Discover the art of the oldest craft in the world: Flintknapping. How did our earliest ancestors make tools to survive the Stone Age?

Find out with experimental archaeologist James Dilley who will guide you through the process of making your flint tools to take home at the end. The oldest flint tools found in Britain date to around 1 million years ago, the latest around 3000 years ago so you will have the chance to try your hand at a process used for 99.7% of human presence in Britain!

The aim of the day will be for attendees to go home with a variety of different stone tools they have made, new flintknapping skills and a new appreciation for prehistoric technology.

Dr James Dilley is an archaeologist and craftsman who specialises in prehistoric technologies with over 18 years of experience. James has worked with museums and heritage centres around the UK such as The British Museum and Stonehenge and alongside media companies such as the BBC, Channel 4, ITV, Smithsonian Channel and National Geographic.

Tuesday 2nd August 2022, 10 am - 4 pm

Please arrive at the Creswell Crags car park by 9.45 at the latest.

Please note, this workshop is for ages 15+ and is not suitable for children.

This event will allow for social distancing between participants. Please note that we will be monitoring government guidelines for COVID-19 safety and will advise if there are further rules which must be followed.

Except in adverse weather, this event will take place outside: please wear suitable clothing and footwear for the conditions. We recommend comfortable, practical clothes and sturdy boots/shoes.

All flintknapping materials and tools will be provided.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Tea, coffee and juice will be provided, as well as biscuits to keep you going. Lunch will not be provided, but Creswell Crags does have a café. All purchases support the charity. If you do not want to use the café, you are welcome to bring a packed lunch.

There is car parking at Creswell Crags and all participants will be given a parking pass so you do not have to pay for parking.

Please note that attending the workshop does not give you access to Creswell Crags' caves. If you wish to go on a cave tour, you must book that separately via the Creswell Crags website. There will not be time during the day of the workshop, as cave tours run at limited times.

All participants will be allowed to explore the on site museum of prehistoric artefacts free of charge (usual ticket price £3 per adult) and will be able to walk around the limestone gorge if there is time, or in the lunchbreak.

IMPORTANT: Please do not travel to Creswell Crags if you or someone in your household has symptoms of COVID-19. If you do have symptoms, please call us to let us know and to discuss refund options.

Tickets to this workshop are non-refundable, except in extenuating circumstances. If you are seeking a refund, please contact us on 01909 720378.