A PLACE WORTH KNOWING
Wood shavings and patient craftsmanship
A working woodcarver’s studio, specialist shop and course space at Dartington’s Cider Press Centre, for learning traditional skills or finding beautifully made pieces.
William Barsley’s working studio makes woodcarving feel tangible: tools on benches, timber waiting to be shaped and intricate finished pieces. Courses bring beginners and more experienced makers into the same creative setting, with spoon carving and puppet making among the possibilities. Arrange a studio visit or choose a workshop, then leave room for a browse through carving tools, books and handmade gifts.
The lovely little details
- Home to woodcarver William Barsley.
- Wood, spoon and puppet carving courses.
- Studio and shop visits by appointment.
SOMETHING TO LOOK OUT FOR
Try carving for yourself
Look through the current courses for an introduction to woodcarving, or a spoon or puppet project.
From the venueTHE USEFUL LITTLE DETAILS
Make a little plan.
Find them here
Orchard Carving Studio, Cider Press Centre, Shinner’s Bridge, Dartington, Devon, TQ9 6TQ
Open directionsGetting there
Find the studio at the Cider Press Centre. Use its car park rather than the separate Hall and gardens car parks.
Before you set off
Book courses in advance. Arrange an appointment before visiting the working studio or specialist shop.
Check bookings & availabilityPick your craft
Check each course’s level and requirements before reserving a place.
Check the detailsDetails checked 24 October 2026. Opening times, menus and access arrangements can change; confirm anything essential directly before travelling.
About this feature & our sources
This is an editorial discovery, researched from the venue’s own information and any visitor sources linked here. It is not a paid partnership or a first-hand review. Individual visitor tips reflect that person’s experience; they are not a live rating or a promise about your visit.
- Orchard Carving Studio · official visitor information ↗
- Orchard Carving Studio · official visitor information ↗
- Orchard Carving Studio · official visitor information ↗
- Orchard Carving Studio · official visitor information ↗
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