Autumn Volunteer Week (13-16 October)

Our autumn stewardship and volunteering week is about working with the countryside, linking farming and wildlife, knitting our community closer together, sharing knowledge and chatting over some good hearty lunches. Hard graft that'll keep you warm even if it's raining and teamwork that'll keep you smiling even when its hailing! 

Volunteers join us for several hours on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday* day for coppicing and hedge-laying in the company of the South Downs Rangers. The plan, which as always, is maleable, is to get out early to see the sunrise and some wildlife, grab some breakie and do a good few hours of outdoor work. Bring some gloves and a billhook if you have one, as well as the obvious: warm, tough, wet weather gear. After that we'll have a late hearty lunch of stew or soup. Please book on by clicking the link below to ensure you are catered for. There will be plenty of opportunities to talk about farming and stewardship, woodland and hedgerow management, and to discuss ideas inspiration and opportunity, meanwhile slowing down and feeling the season.  

Unlike Wild Rogues there will be not be evening activities and yoga, but if you do want to stay over there are options for accommodation and for camping at discounted rates. On the Thursday night will be our monthly pop-up pub night, with local ales and food; a really nice way to wrap up*.

*There will be an opportunity for Stewards and Volunteers to help out on the market garden on the Wednesday and folk are also welcome to continue hedgerow work on Friday with the rangers, if they are really getting into it! 

What the week involves

Across the week we’ll be working outside, with activities likely to include:

• Hedge laying
• Coppicing and woodland management
  
• Habitat creation and preparation for winter
• Winter bird identification and wildlife awareness

The work is suitable for people with no prior experience; guidance and tools are provided, and tasks are adapted to weather and energy levels.

You’re welcome to attend for the full week or join for part of it, subject to availability.

Food & accommodation

• Breakfast (8am): Please bring your own or eat before you come
• Coffee break (11am): Bring a thermos and a few snacks
• Late Lunch (2:30pm): Lunches of stews, soups and bread are provided

Camping and accommodation options are available at reduced rates for volunteers — please get in touch to discuss what’s possible.

Who this week is for

This week is primarily suited to adults who:

• enjoy working outdoors at a steady pace
• are interested in traditional land-care and ecology
• value learning by doing
• are happy with simple arrangements and shared spaces

No specialist skills are required.

Families with children are very welcome to join in where possible, and though there are no activities specifically designed for young children all the spaces on the farm are available to them during this week and there are activities which they can get involved with under supervision from their parent. Children under 6 can join in for free. 

Stewardship & pricing

The week is half price for our stewards

👉 Find out more about Stewardship at Rushmere

A note on the season

Autumn is a rich time on the farm — quieter, more focused, and attentive to what the land needs next. This week is about helping the farm transition into winter while giving people space to do the same. 

How to book

Most people join by booking a Volunteer Week Ticket, which includes full participation in the week and camping on site. If you’re unable to attend the full week, day tickets and  are also available. Please choose the ticket type that best fits how you’d like to take part.

Ticket options explained

Volunteer Week Ticket – £30

The best way to experience Rushmere Farm. Includes:

• Participation across the week (flexible attendance)
• On-site camping for the duration
• Access to shared lunches
• Time working alongside others caring for the farm

(Accommodation upgrades such as yurts, shepherd’s hut or cottages may be available at reduced rates; please contact us.)

Volunteer Day Ticket – £10

For those who can only join for a day. Includes:

• Daytime volunteering activities
• Access to one shared lunch
• One night camping

👉 Find out more about stewardship