3 Day Nesting Retreat
About this Event
Nest Making is a three day, hands on project at Wick Woodland by Hackney Marshes. Together we will build a collective nest from natural and gathered materials, and take part in workshops that slow us down, help us listen and make space for play, rest and making.
Each day has its own pace, so choose the one that suits you, or come to all three!
Book each day separately, and if you come to more than one, you will see the nest develop.
Each day runs from 11am to 4pm
Walk with us - gathering at Hackney Wick station at 10:30am for anyone who'd like company.
What to bring
Please wear clothes you are happy to get muddy, and bring wellies. Bring a raincoat if rain is forecast. Also bring water, layers, anything else you may need. All materials and tools are provided.
Lunch: Please bring your own pack lunch, some snacks and water will also be provided.
Access and location
The site is Wick Woodland which is a nature reserve next to the A12, near the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, and lies on the lower end of Hackney Marshes. The nearest station is Hackney Wick, about 900m away, which has step free access throughout.
Ticket names and descriptions
Each day costs about £15 per person to run. Please choose the ticket that feels right for you.
- Friday, Foundations, Free
- Friday, Foundations, Donation
- Saturday, Building, Free
- Saturday, Building, Donation
- Sunday, Recalibration, Free
- Sunday, Recalibration, Donation
Please book only if you can attend, and release your ticket if your plans change.
Safeguarding
We want everyone to feel safe at Nest Making. Children under 11 must come with a parent, guardian or responsible adult throughout the session, and adults remain responsible for the children they bring.
Our safeguarding leads on the day Fleima, Lillie and Tireni. If you have any concern about anyone's welfare, please tell them straight away.
We will be taking photos and film during the event. Please tell us if you do not want yourself or your child photographed, and we will respect that.
Agenda
🕑: 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Day 1: Foraging Together
Info: Friday 23rd October: Foundations, Gathering and Grounding
A slow, steady start. We walk, forage, listen to birds and sketch, and begin the frame of the nest. Expect plenty of pauses and no pressure to keep up as we ease our way in.
Especially welcome: carers, older people and anyone with time to give
🕑: 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Day 2: Building Together
Info: Saturday 24th October: Building, Play and Experimentation
The loudest, busiest day. Weaving, games, movement, and building with sticks, clay and other materials. Expect noise, mess and lots of hands.
Especially welcome: families, young people, and anyone who wants to play and release some energy!
🕑: 11:00 AM - 04:00 PM
Day 3: Nesting Together
Info: Sunday 25th October: Recalibration, Listening and Rest
A quiet close. Tai chi, listening, and a tea ceremony, treating rest and embodiment as part of the making.
Especially welcome: anyone who wants to slow down
Event venue & nearby stays
Wick Woodland, Wick Woodland, London, United Kingdom
Concerts, fests, parties, meetups — all the happenings, one place.