Timber Frame Basics

Join Stephen Boniface for a one-day Walk and Talk training event in the remarkable medieval town of Lavenham, Suffolk.

Lavenham is widely recognised as one of England's finest surviving medieval towns and provides an exceptional setting for exploring traditional timber-framed buildings in their original context. Throughout the day you'll examine a diverse range of historic buildings while discussing timber framing techniques, construction methods, common defects, conservation principles and appropriate repair approaches.

The day combines guided walks, visits to important historic buildings and informal discussion, allowing you to learn directly from real buildings rather than the classroom.

Event at a glance

Time: 9:30am – 5:00pm

Venue: Lavenham, Suffolk

Format: Guided Walk and Talk training day

Fee: £150 + VAT

CPD: 5 Hours

Draft itinerary

9:30am – Meet in Market Square for welcome and introduction

Walk around Market Square

10:30am – Refreshments and discussion at a local café

11:30am – Walking Tour One

12:30pm – Guided visit to The Guildhall

1:30pm – Lunch at The Guildhall Café

2:30pm – Guided visit to Little Hall

3:30pm – Walking Tour Two

5:00pm onwards – Informal discussion and Q&A at The Swan Inn (leave whenever you wish)

Timings are approximate and may vary slightly on the day.

Topics we'll explore

• Understanding historic buildings, including dating, construction and materials
• Timber frame basics
• Identifying defects and conservation issues
• Inspection techniques, including non-invasive and invasive investigation
• Traditional repair methods and appropriate materials
• Preparing Schedules of Work
• Contract considerations
• The value of sketching during building inspections

Questions are encouraged throughout the day, and the programme will naturally adapt to the interests of the group and the buildings we encounter.

Your booking includes

• Full day of expert-led training
• Guided exploration of Lavenham's historic timber-framed buildings
• Entry to Little Hall and The Guildhall
• Sketching materials
• Digital CPD certificate (on request)

Lunch and refreshments are not included and can be purchased on the day.

Accessibility

The event involves walking through Lavenham's historic streets and visiting heritage buildings. Surfaces include paving, cobbles and uneven ground, with occasional steps and changes in level. Please wear suitable outdoor footwear and dress appropriately for the weather.

Full event information

For further information about the course, learning outcomes and joining instructions, please visit:

https://www.thebesttraining.co.uk/timber-frame-basics