GREG ABEL

BLACKSMITH
Moretonhampstead

One of just a handful of blacksmiths left on Dartmoor, Greg works in a 150-year-old stone forge, where vintage farm and farriers’ tools, made by previous smithies, still hang from the rafters.

Greg uses traditional coal in the original hearth rather than gas, which is now more commonly used, while hammer and anvil still his main tools.

Greg’s products include gates, railings, fireside sets, weather vanes, rose arches, knives, coat hooks and shoe-scrapers, which he makes for the local community.

Greg says: "It's magical knowing that the forge has had so many smiths before me using the same skills and methods. I often wonder if they are they watching me, making sure that I am doing it right."

During Greg's sessions, you will see the traditional blacksmith's forging techniques of drawing a metal out (making it thinner), jumping up (increasing its size), splitting, punching, twisting and fire welding.

FREE DROP-IN
Please call Greg beforehand to check he is in.

FORGE TOUR AND DEMONSTRATION
One hour. From £40 per group (max eight people).

MAKE YOUR OWN
Learn how to forge your own utensil in this one-to-one session with Greg. Choose from a fire poker, toasting fork, letter opener, coat hook or barbecue butler. Price: £90 for four hours. 

BOOK A VISIT WITH GREG:

Phone: 01647 440331
Email: gregabel@moretonforge.co.uk
Website: http://www.moretonforge.co.uk