Discover the magic of the bog – and become a peatland champion!
Join us for a free, one-day creative workshop all about the unique landscape, stories and wildlife of the Avalon Marshes. As part of Peat Fest South West, this interactive day is designed especially for young people aged 14–19 who want to get stuck into nature, heritage, art and activism.
We’ll walk, observe, draw, write, record and play – all while learning about the peatlands and their incredible role in shaping Somerset's landscape, biodiversity and communities.
What to expect
Morning session (outdoors on Shapwick Heath):
• Guided walk to a peatland restoration site
• Hands-on nature survey using quadrats, ID guides and hand lenses
• Get to know mosses, dragonflies, and hidden wetland wonders
Afternoon session (back at the Avalon Marshes Centre):
• Get creative with poetry and map-making inspired by the bog
• Play dialect games and share local stories
• Help us shape what happens at the Peat Fest celebration on 9 August
And then…
• (Optional) Return to the Avalon Marshes Centre on Saturday 9 August to take part in our public Peat Fest celebration!
• Join in planting a bog garden
• Take part in creative peat-based activities
• Meet artists from Art and Energy, and step into the mossy portal!
• Share what you've made and learned
Why come along?
• Make your voice heard about the future of our local landscape
• Learn new creative and environmental skills
• Connect with other young people and local organisations
• Be part of something bigger: help create content for the Peatland Manifesto and take part in the South West Peat Fest celebration
Important info
• This event is outdoors for part of the day – please dress for the weather and wear sturdy shoes
• Free to attend, but spaces are limited to 20 young people. All materials provided.
• Vegetarian lunch and snacks provided (please let us know any dietary needs when booking).
• Accessible options are available for those unable to join the morning walk – join us at lunchtime for the creative afternoon
• Travel bursaries are available for those who would not otherwise be able to attend – just let us know when booking
About Peat-Fest South-West 2025
This event is hosted by Natural England and Somerset Wildlife Trust, in partnership with RE-PEAT – a youth-led collective changing hearts and minds through a shared love for peatlands and a commitment to protecting them.
It’s part of Peat-Fest South-West, a regional celebration encouraging thousands of people to discover, connect with, and fall in love with our precious peatland landscapes.
The Art and Energy Collective has been awarded funding by The National Lottery Heritage Fund to collaborate with peatland restoration and cultural organisations across the South West – including the Avalon Marshes Partnership – to bring peatlands to life through art, storytelling and community action.
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