Waymaking at Ilam Park with Matt Windle – September 2026 – March 2027

Find your voice and connect with nature through free monthly spoken word sessions with Matt Windle, The Poet with Punch.

Got something to say but not sure where to start? Want to try spoken word, play with words or simply see what it’s all about?

This is your space.

Join poet and spoken word artist Matt Windle, The Poet with Punch, for free monthly sessions combining nature, creativity and spoken word in the beautiful surroundings of Ilam Park.

Explore the landscape, find inspiration in the world around you and discover new ways to express yourself through words and poetry.

No pressure. No judgement. No experience needed. Just space to explore, create and be heard.

What is Waymaking?

Waymaking is an OUTSIDE wellbeing project bringing together time outdoors, creativity and connection.

Each month, poet and spoken word artist Matt Windle will lead nature-based spoken word sessions at Ilam Park.

Walk, pause, notice what’s around you and use the landscape as inspiration to experiment with words, ideas and poetry.

You don’t need to be a writer or performer to take part, and there’s no pressure to perform or share your work.

Who is it for?

There are two free sessions each month:

Young people ages 9+ | 10am–12pm
For young people who are home educated or not currently in mainstream education.

Adults aged 18+ | 1pm–3pm
For adults experiencing physical or mental health barriers.

Sessions are relaxed, supportive and flexible, and accessible to a wide range of needs, including neurodiversity and SEN. You can take part at a pace that feels right for you.

Dates & times

Sessions take place on Tuesdays:

15 September 2026 • 13 October 2026 • 17 November 2026 • 15 December 2026

12 January 2027 • 16 February 2027 • 16 March 2027

We encourage you to join us each month where possible, giving you the chance to get to know the group, explore your creativity and experience waymaking at Ilam Park throughout the changing seasons.

Where?

Ilam Park
Ilam
Ashbourne
DE6 2AZ

Cost and transport

Waymaking is completely free to attend.

Free transport may also be available. Get in touch with us to discuss transport options and any support you might need to take part.

How to join

To find out more or book a place, contact the Waymaking team:

Email: waymaking@outsidearts.org
Phone: 07801 655272

Waymaking is an OUTSIDE wellbeing project.

Waymaking Celebration

On 23 March 2027, everyone who has taken part in Waymaking will be invited to a gentle celebration of the programme, presented through rhythm and poetry.