Paul Jones Bushcraft

Paul Jones Bushcraft sits in the Monmouthshire countryside near Chepstow, and it's the kind of place where you actually learn something useful rather than just wander round taking photos. This is proper hands-on territory - expect to be taught real woodland skills: fire-lighting without matches, shelter-building, tracking, that sort of thing. The instructor knows his stuff and doesn't waste time on fluff.

It works best for families with kids old enough to concentrate (eight upwards, really) and anyone who's ever wondered how to survive outdoors without a sleeping bag shop. Adults get plenty out of it too, especially if you're the type who enjoys being genuinely uncomfortable in the name of learning. You'll leave muddy, slightly exhausted, and actually able to light a fire with two sticks.

The sessions aren't cheap and they're weather-dependent - check ahead for what's running and when. Allow a full day if you're doing an immersive course; shorter sessions run three to four hours. Spring through autumn is best; winter's doable but thoroughly grim.

If you're basing yourself at Penhein Glamping nearby (a solid five-star spot), this makes a brilliant rainy-day detour or a genuine activity rather than just another tourist tick. It's not Instagram-friendly and that's rather the point. You're there to learn, not to lounge.