Dry Stone Wall Building Course at Glynhynod Farm
We are excited to announce a unique opportunity to learn the ancient and skillful craft of dry stone wall building at Glynhynod Farm. This hands-on course, taking place on the 19th and 20th of October, will be led by Bill Hall, a master waller with over 40 years of experience.
Whether you are a complete beginner or someone looking to refine your skills, this course will provide valuable insights into a time-honoured craft.
Bill Hall, Course Tutor
Bill Hall is a seasoned craftsman with over 40 years of experience in dry stone walling. Starting his career in the Peak District, Bill developed his skills in an area renowned for its iconic stone walls. Now based in Wales, he has laid more than 16 miles of walls throughout his career, preserving a tradition that has shaped rural landscapes for centuries.
Bill remains active in his trade, combining his deep knowledge of the craft with a hands-on approach, building walls that stand as lasting testaments to this ancient art form.
Location
Why Join?
Not only will you gain practical experience in building your own section of wall, but you’ll also leave with a deeper appreciation for the heritage and craftsmanship involved in this traditional form of construction. Whether you’re interested in history, agriculture, or simply looking for a rewarding hands-on experience, this course offers something for everyone.
Course Fees:
Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your place and join us for a memorable weekend of learning and building at Glynhynod Farm!
£180 for the full two-day course
£100 if you'd prefer to join for just one day
Course Details
The course will begin at 9 a.m. with coffee, allowing participants to meet Bill and each other before diving into the day’s activities. Bill will kick off the session with an introductory chat on the techniques, materials, and history behind dry stone walling. You'll then head outside to put theory into practice, working with Bill to build a section of wall using stones from the farm.
A cheesy lunch will be provided. If you have any dietary requirements please let us know.
All necessary tools and gloves will be provided for participants. Attendees are required to bring safety boots as these will offer additional protection during the course.
The Craft of Dry Stone Walling
Dry stone walling is a technique that has been used for thousands of years, tracing back to the Neolithic period. This method of construction—using stones without mortar—creates walls that are not only functional and long-lasting but also beautifully in tune with the landscape. Each stone is carefully selected and positioned, making it a highly skilled craft that requires patience, precision, and a deep understanding of how natural materials fit together.
Historically, dry stone walls have been used to mark boundaries, keep livestock in place, and protect agricultural land. They have become iconic features of the countryside in places like the Peak District, Yorkshire Dales, and rural Wales, where their presence tells a story of generations past.
However, in recent years, the demand for dry stone walling has declined, with modern construction techniques and materials taking precedence. As a result, this ancient craft is slowly becoming obsolete. Courses like ours are vital for preserving these skills, passing them on to future generations, and ensuring that the traditional art of dry stone walling continues to thrive.
Enquire for spaces.
Glynhynod Farm
Llandysul, Ceredigion
SA44 5JY
sophie@damhile.co.uk / 01239 851998 / 01239 851528
