Woodland drum circle

Description

Woodland Drum Circle
A monthly community drum circle in a private woodland in Abington, near Cambridge

Once a month, we gather in the woods to drum together. There’s no rhythm to learn and nothing to get right. We play intuitively, listening to our own drum and to each other, and something beautiful happens when we do. The sound of the group takes on a life of its own, and we find ourselves held by it.

People have gathered to drum together on every continent since time immemorial. As a scientist, I’m also fascinated by what we now understand about why it feels so good: how the drum’s rhythm can settle the nervous system, and how playing with others builds a deep sense of connection and belonging. To me, the drum circle is where the science and the ceremony meet.

What happens in the circle
We start with a short drum guided meditations, followed by a sharing circle, where everyone can say a few words about how they’re arriving. Then we share intentions for the drumming, and we drum together in several rounds. We use shamanic style frame drums (though all drums are welcome) and other instruments like rattles. We close with a final sharing circle, a song and closing meditation, and finally about 30 min of social time with cake.

This circle is for anyone who loves the drum, or is curious about it, and is longing for community. No previous experience is needed. Please bring a drum if you have one. If you don’t, you’re still very welcome. Just let me know when you book, so I know how many drums to bring.

Dates for 2026
Second Thursday of the month (except November), 7 to 9pm
🥁 Thursday 8th October
🥁 Thursday 19th November
🥁 Thursday 10th December

Doors open at 6.30pm for a prompt 7pm start, and we finish at 9pm.

Where
We meet in a geodome, an outdoor shelter in a private woodland in Abington, near Cambridge. When it’s cold, the geodome is heated by a wood burning stove and can get quite cosy. Once you’ve booked, I’ll email you the exact location and more details.

What to bring

• Layers of clothing for the weather (do check the forecast)
• We sit on the ground on mats and cushions. If sitting on the floor isn’t comfortable for you, please bring a folding chair, a higher cushion.
• A bottle of water, and a warm drink in a flask for the social time afterwards
• Something to place on our communal altar, if you wish
• I always bring a homemade cake to share, gluten free and vegan so everyone can have some. If you’d like to bring something to share too, it’s very welcome

About the price
Your ticket covers my time preparing for and holding the circle, the hire of the woodland and geodome, and the firewood that keeps us warm. There is a lower price for those on a low income. If you can’t afford it, please talk to me. I don’t want money to keep anyone away from the circle.

I’m so looking forward to drumming with you.