Barnswood Campsite, Friday 4th – Sunday 6th July 2025
A weekend of adventure, creativity, and connection unfolded as 4th Bramhall Scouts swapped everyday comforts for fields, trees and starry skies at Barnswood Campsite. It was a mixed bag of weather from sunny to a thunder storm over the weekend, but the weather did not stop the camp.
Back to Basics with Ancient Craft
One of the weekend’s standout moments was a hands-on project that blended wilderness skills with historical ingenuity. Each Scout crafted a slate arrowhead, carefully shaped and fixed onto a sturdy stick using artificial sinew (waxed thread) and pine pitch – a traditional adhesive made from melted pine resin, beeswax, and powdered charcoal.
The campsite was filled with the earthy scent of pine and the soft crackling of heat as the mixture simmered over the campfire fire. Scouts learned how early humans engineered tools for survival and storytelling, turning rough slate into sleek points and understanding the science behind natural adhesives.
More Than Just Skills
The weekend wasn’t just about crafting—it was about growing together. From the first tent-pitching, scouts cooking their own meals and constructing camp gadets, Scouts supported one another, shared laughs, and stepped out of their comfort zones.
Saturday evening was spent around the campfire, with camp fire songs and roasting marshmallows. By Sunday the Scouts took with them friendships, confidence, and memories that will last long after the tents were packed away.
