Founded as a co-operative movement for children and young people, Woodcraft Folk creates spaces where young people can grow in confidence, discover the world around them and learn the importance of caring for both people and planet. Through their work, children are encouraged to engage with some of the most pressing issues facing society today, from environmental sustainability and global conflict to social justice and equality. At the heart of the movement is a belief that young people’s voices matter, empowering them to share their ideas, develop new skills and play an active role in shaping a fairer, more peaceful future.
For two decades, Woodcraft Folk have been a cherished part of life at Latitude, bringing creativity, community and adventure to families gathering in the heart of Henham Park. As Latitude celebrates 20 years, the much-loved local team return once again, continuing a partnership that has become an integral part of the festival’s identity from its very first edition.
Across the UK, thousands of volunteers and young people come together each week in schools, community halls and outdoor spaces to explore these ideas through creativity, collaboration and play. Singing, camping, discussion and hands-on activities all form part of the experience, helping young people to learn in ways that are engaging, inclusive and fun.
That spirit comes vividly to life each summer at Latitude. For 20 years, Woodcraft Folk have been a cornerstone of the festival’s Family programme, offering an imaginative and welcoming space where children can create, explore and connect with nature. Their ever-busy craft tent in the Kids Area hosts a huge variety of workshops, from wet felting and lino printing to wind chimes, paper bead jewellery, seed bombs, boat making and bug hotels.
Beyond the craft tent, families can venture into the much-loved Woodland Base, nestled in the forest opposite. Here, children are invited to immerse themselves in bushcraft and outdoor play, with activities including mud kitchens, blind trails, knot-tying, rope bridges, fire lighting and outdoor cooking. Tin can lantern making, printed flags, bead and mask making, campfire singing in the woods and simple ukulele sessions all add to the sense of adventure and discovery.
“We've been bringing our kids [to Latitude] for 11 years. The Kids Field was such an exciting, creative and safe place for them to explore when they were little, with the Woodcraft Marquee and Woodland at the heart of it. As they got older they started helping us to run activities, and finally began running their own. As well as exploring more of the festival and hanging out with other Woodcraft teens. This year our 19 year old daughter is taking over content creation to showcase more of what we do and what people enjoy about Woodcraft at Latitude.”
Over the past 20 years, Woodcraft Folk have helped generations of young Latitude-goers experience the joy of creativity, community and the outdoors. Their presence has become a defining part of the festival experience for countless families – a place where children are encouraged not only to create and play, but also to imagine a kinder, more sustainable world.
