Branscombe Forge: Only Operational Thatched Forge In England

Built in the 18th century, Branscombe Forge is believed to be the oldest thatched working forge in England.

For more than 300 years, generations of blacksmiths have laboured over red-hot metal here, continuing a long tradition of craftsmanship.

The village of Branscombe is found on the South coast of Devon between Seaton and Sidmouth, and it’s one of the most relaxing and picturesque villages on Jurassic Coastline.

Believed to be the longest village in England, the streets sweep down through the stunning valley to the sea, lined with colourful cottages and thatched buildings.

Here, you will find pretty rows of thatched cottages with hanging baskets and climbing roses decorating the outside, a picturesque dovecote and a church with one of the most inspiring views in the county.

The village has a number of historic buildings, but the most famous is arguably The Forge, which offers a glimpse into the old village economy.

Early settlers, likely attracted by the area's fishing potential, built a self-sustaining community.

The stone walls and thatched roof of Branscombe Forge have provided blacksmiths with essential shelter and protection from the elements over the centuries.

A blacksmith forge is a workshop where metal is heated and shaped.

Blacksmiths in forges historically produced a wide variety of items, including tools, weapons, household items, and architectural elements.

Tools included hammers, used for various trades and by the blacksmiths themselves; axes, essential for woodcutting and other purposes; chisels, used in woodworking, stone carving, and metalworking; and nails and screws, essential for construction and various applications.

Weapons included swords, with various types such as longswords, short swords, knives and daggers, used for combat, hunting, and utility purposes; spears, used for hunting and combat; arrowheads, for arrows used in archery; and armour pieces such as helmets, breastplates, gauntlets, and shields.

Other items included horse shoes, for protecting horses' hooves, and chains, used in various applications including transport and securing items.

The central part of the forge, the hearth, is heated by coal, charcoal, or modern alternatives like gas or electricity.

Essential components include the anvil, bellows or blower, and a quenching tank for cooling metal.

Key blacksmithing techniques include forging, tempering, annealing, and hardening.

Historically, blacksmiths were crucial to communities, crafting tools, weapons, and household items.

Today, while industrial production has lessened the demand for traditional blacksmithing, the craft has seen a revival as an art form, with blacksmiths creating custom and artistic pieces.

Blacksmiths at Branscombe Forge still use traditional methods to create both practical and artistic items, which are available for purchase in the showroom open year-round.

Visitors might even catch a glimpse of the resident blacksmith at work. For the latest opening times, please check the National Trust website.

Someone who visited the Forge said: “We went to Branscombe to visit the forge, it was my birthday, I spoke to the smith working there who was very helpful and knowledgeable as I would like to take it up for a living.

”He has really inspired me to do more so. If you have some time pop in there, it’s well worth the visit.”

Another person added: “We spent about half an hour at The Forge and appreciated the explanation provided by the staff there.

”We then took the long walk to Branscombe Beach before returning and having tea at The Old Bakery nearby to the Forge. Nice short visit.”

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