Bows have been part of our culture for thousands of years. So long and so important are they that perhaps none of us would be here without the skill and patience of our ancestors. Hunting, inter-tribal conflict, and symbols of power that shaped nations, even our small islands, show that these beautiful pieces of timber were far more than mere tools. Each bow is a personal statement of skill, patience, and craftsmanship.

On this traditional English War Bow course in East Sussex, we explore bow design through the ages, with particular focus on the evolution of the medieval longbow and how this simple stave became one of the most feared battlefield weapons of the Middle Ages.

You will craft your own English War Bow using traditional hand tools, applying time-served bow making techniques passed down through generations of bowyers.

Course Content

• War Bow History
• Wooden Bow Design
• Factors Affecting Bow Efficiency
• Wood Selection and Bow Woods
• Tillering
• Carpentry Techniques
• Horn Nocks
• Arrow Plates
• Finishing Methods
• String Materials and Construction

Bow Wood Materials

Subject to availability

• Backing: Ash or Hickory
• Tapered Core: Yew / Purpleheart / Osage
• Belly Wood: Lemonwood / Osage

We prepare the staves in advance using Grade A bow-making timber. This course offers a rare opportunity to build with locally sourced yew as the core wood, available only while current stock lasts. This particular yew was felled locally 4 to 5 years ago and produced over 200 laminate strips. It is exceptional material, and once it is gone, it is gone.

By the end of the course, you will have built a War Bow from sustainably sourced traditional timbers, crafted your own string, and gained the practical knowledge to repeat the process independently. Most importantly, you will develop a genuine connection to traditional archery craftsmanship, relying on your own skill, patience, and understanding rather than machines or modern materials.

Potential Poundage

It is possible to aim for true historical war bow weights. However, we always advise students to work towards an achievable and sustainable draw weight, particularly if you intend to shoot regularly. A typical finished draw weight ranges between 60 and 100lbs.

Duration

The course runs over 6 days. On the first day, you will arrive at 5pm to set up camp, followed by an informal evening talk on war bow history and longbow design. Full working days then follow, concluding at 5pm on the final day.

Catering

This course is part-catered, with an evening meal provided. We can accommodate meat and vegetarian diets. If you have allergies or a strict dietary requirement, you will need to supplement the provided catering with your own provisions.

Dates and Times

September 2026 – 3 places left available 

Tuesday 8th, arrive 5pm
Wednesday 9th
Thursday 10th
Friday 11th
Saturday 12th
Sunday 13th, finishes 5pm

Workshop availability is updated regularly.

Location

Near Hellingly, East Sussex

Camping and Facilities

Woodland camping is included at no extra cost (optional). Local B&Bs and hotels are available.

Facilities at the woodland workshop include:

• Heated workshop
• Kitchen
• Showers
• Toilets
• Woodland or field camping
• Self-contained camper vans welcome

Course Size

Maximum of 8 participants

Course Details

A basic level of carpentry experience is helpful but not essential. Traditional bow making is physically and mentally demanding, and you will be using tools and muscle groups that may be unfamiliar.

You will be closely guided throughout the process by Phil and two specifically trained instructors. This is not a demonstration. This is you building your own English War Bow with professional guidance.

Adult-only course. Appropriate warm outdoor clothing required.

Upon booking, you will receive detailed joining instructions via PDF, including:

• Recommended kit list
• Directions
• Course information
• Medical form

Please check your email account, including spam folders, for attachments.

Tools

All tools are provided. You may find it useful to have one of our own Bow Making Scrapers, ideal for this course.

Bow Making at Other Venues

Phil also teaches Traditional English Longbow Making at other heritage events, including the Weald and Downland Museum.

Social Media

See photographs from previous workshops on Instagram: Phil Brooke Longbows Instagram.

Reviews

Mark G
“Despite having the woodworking skills of a carrot, Phil and Scott guided, helped, motivated, and fed me to create not only a powerful war bow but a true thing of beauty. Phil inspires others. He led us through the course with laughter, patience, and knowledge that is beyond vast. If you are even slightly interested, do not hesitate. You will not regret it.”

Bill Eldridge
“I could not have asked for more knowledgeable and supportive trainers. Lesser mortals would have given up on me and my heavy weight stave. You did not. I went home with a fantastic functioning War Bow. Your humour and optimism never flagged, and you kept a diverse group on track. Thank you once again.”

You can read more genuine client reviews on our Reviews page.

Fees

Total course fee: £595 per person.
Deposit secures your place. Remaining balance of £495 invoiced 4–6 weeks prior to course start.

For any further questions, please contact us directly.