“The venue was easy to find and close enough to the path that you can see it from the road - yet you feel like you are out in the countryside. Stephen was an amazing workshop host - he explained things clearly, he was knowledgeable and made it a lot of fun. It was lovely to learn what doing certain steps in the process achieved and the gentle and sometimes even humorous encouragement, helped us to slow down and enjoy the process not just rush to the end product. Will definitely be back to do more workshops!”

“So much fun!!!! The beginner class is literally for beginners and gives you all the basic knowledge you need to get a decent spoon. We had one guy who had made seven spoons that were shop quality based on his learnings from the course.”

“I want to both keep this an amazing hidden secret and shout about it to the world! Its a wonderful space, with interesting, talented and calming people. For those with skills or none at all, its just a lovely place to spend time having fun, learning, with no judgement.”

“What a peaceful day carving bowls in the woodland! Stephen was such a great teacher and wonderful energy to be around. Lots of tools available and a space created to release your creativity! Nice fire-pit to keep warm and gorgeous herbal tea. Thank you for an unforgettable experience.”

“What a lovely experience - everything from the professionalism of the host Stephen, to the beautiful surrounds was just perfect. A lovely day out and a new hobby for life. 100% recommended!”

“Super relaxed, friendly environment. Instructors made you feel very welcome and were knowledgeable, helpful and fun! Great location too. Felt remote and tucked away in the forest but easily accessible via public transport.”

“I attended a spoon carving workshop booked through Bento. It was held in the clearing, a wonderful space in the woods with birdsong all around. Stephen, our teacher was welcoming, kind, patient and so knowledgeable. I felt calm and could go at my own pace. My spoon was rustic but for me, it was all about the process. A wonderful, welcoming space and a magical experience. Highly recommend.”

“My daughter had her birthday party at The Clearing in Abbey Woods, Stephen and his team made sure the day went smoothly with all the girls fully engaged in all the amazing activities on offer. The bonfire & food was manned by one of the staff so the experience was stress free and fully enjoyable for both kids and adults. Lots of the girls said 'This is the best party ever!!' which was high praise!!”

“Love the volunteering sessions at The Clearing on Thursdays. It's so great to be outside with friendly people learning new woodland crafts and being useful! Stephen and everyone who helps are such a lovely bunch. Thanks for offering this fantastic opportunity to be in the woods and learn new things.”

“I found the whole experience so informative and relaxing. Being totally engrossed in the whole process. Stephen's knowledge was endless and entertaining. We worked together and produced a wonderful piece. Since then I have made another two animals and several other pieces. At the grand age of 78 I have found a great pastime. This is a course for all ages. Thanks”

“I was gifted a voucher for the sculptural green wood carving for my 40th birthday, and it was a thoroughly enjoyable experience. As a hobbyist woodworker, I'm normally striving for straightness, squareness and precision. Green wood carving is more abstract yet more forgiving, allowing a more flexible and intuitive approach to creativity. There is great satisfaction in chipping away at the work-piece and seeing the shape slowly emerge and evolve. The day itself was relaxed and friendly, with a wide variety of people - individuals, couples and families - sharing the experience, with a roaring campfire nearby and a plentiful supply of tea. We also had the opportunity to help plant a new crop of willows to help improve and develop the site.”

“Fantastic afternoon spent making a wooden spoon. Stephen was very friendly, welcoming and knowledgeable about the craft. He encourages your own artistic style to develop and guides without imposing his view. His anything and everything is possible attitude is refreshing. Using your hands deepens your appreciation of what’s actually involved in the process and at the end of the session, you have a spoon that you have bonded with and that will last forever!“

“Far and away the most enjoyable course I've ever taken! Right from the beginning, Stephen is warm, welcoming, funny and friendly. He distils decades of artistry into a few hours, introducing you to a wealth of tools, techniques and types of wood and above all making it incredibly interesting and engaging. Thoroughly recommended!“