Welcome to The Slindon Forge
Where History Meets Community

The Slindon Forge stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of our village, a place where the echoes of the past harmonize with the vibrancy of the present. Our story is one of preservation, community, and the unwavering belief in the power of collective action.

A Glimpse into the Past:

The Forge’s history stretches back to the mid-19th century, its origins shrouded in the mists of time. While the exact date of its construction remains elusive, we know that it emerged sometime between 1837 and 1879, initially as a modest structure, possibly a wheelwright’s workshop.

As the village grew, so did the Forge. By 1896, an extension had been added, transforming it into the village blacksmithy, a vital hub of activity and craftsmanship. The clang of the hammer on iron, the hiss of the forge, and the camaraderie of villagers gathering to share news and stories – these were the sounds and sights that defined the Forge in its heyday.

A Forge Facing its Twilight:

Sadly, the passage of time and the changing needs of the community saw the blacksmith’s fire extinguished. The Forge fell silent, its doors closed, and the once-thriving building gradually succumbed to the ravages of neglect. By 2009, this historic landmark, a silent sentinel of Slindon’s past, stood in a state of disrepair, its future uncertain.

A Community United:

But the story of the Slindon Forge doesn’t end there. Recognizing the historical significance and the potential of this beloved building, a group of passionate villagers, driven by a shared vision, came together to breathe new life into its timeworn walls. The Slindon Forge Society was born.

Restoration: A Labor of Love:

Taking on the lease in 2009, the Society embarked on an ambitious restoration project. The task was daunting: damp had seeped into the very bones of the building, the foundations were precarious, and the brickwork, including the original hearth, was crumbling.

With unwavering determination, the Society, in collaboration with Nutbourne Construction led by Dave Briant, meticulously addressed each challenge. Tons of excess soil were removed to combat dampness, modern non-breathable paints were stripped away, and damaged bricks were painstakingly replaced. The floor was excavated and re-laid, the roof strengthened, and the original hearth lovingly restored.

Throughout the restoration, the ethos was clear: preserve the historical integrity of the Forge. Every original element, every mark etched by time, was carefully retained, ensuring that the building’s story continued to be told through its walls, beams, and the resilient hearth.

A Modern Extension, a Nod to the Past:

To complement the restored Forge and provide a space for the community to gather, an extension was designed and built. This modern addition, housing a café, kitchen, office, and cloakroom, was conceived with a clear design philosophy:

• Respecting the Past: The extension deliberately distinguishes itself from the original structure, ensuring the historical narrative remains clear and unobstructed.
• Preserving the Streetscape: The siting and roofline of the extension were carefully planned to minimize visual impact, allowing the original Forge to retain its prominence.
• Echoing the Craftsmanship: The extension embraces a simple, functional design, utilizing readily available materials, a tribute to the pragmatic approach of the original builders.

The Forge Reborn: A Community Hub:

With the restoration complete, the Slindon Forge reopened its doors in October 2012, not as a blacksmith’s workshop, but as a vibrant community hub. Spearheaded by Mike Imms, the vision was to create a space that served the needs of the village, a place where people could connect, shop, and enjoy the simple pleasures of good company and good food.

The Forge now houses a community shop, offering essential groceries and local produce, and a welcoming café, a popular destination for villagers and visitors alike. Whether it’s enjoying a cup of coffee after a walk in the National Trust’s beautiful Slindon Estate, catching up with friends, or attending one of the many community events, the Forge has once again become an integral part of village life.

The Spirit of Volunteering:

The Slindon Forge thrives on the dedication and generosity of its volunteers. From the initial restoration to the day-to-day running of the shop and café, volunteers are the heart and soul of this community endeavor. The original Management Committee has evolved over the years, with new volunteers stepping forward to contribute their time and skills, ensuring the Forge continues to flourish.

Looking Ahead:

The Slindon Forge stands as a proud symbol of our community’s commitment to preserving its heritage while embracing the future. It’s a place where history and community intertwine, where the echoes of the blacksmith’s hammer blend with the laughter of children and the chatter of friends.

As we move forward, we remain dedicated to nurturing this legacy, ensuring that the Slindon Forge continues to be a welcoming space for all, a place where stories are shared, connections are made, and the spirit of community burns bright.

Join Us:

We invite you to become a part of the Slindon Forge story. Whether you’re a villager, a visitor, or simply someone who appreciates the value of community and heritage, there’s a place for you here. Come and experience the warmth of our welcome, the charm of our historic building, and the delicious offerings of our café. And if you’re inspired to contribute your time and skills, we’d be delighted to welcome you to our team of volunteers.

The Slindon Forge: Where history meets community, and the future is forged together.