About Me -
Ryan Satchwell - Master Thatcher
I began my thatching career at 16 years old, learning the craft in its truest form under respected local master thatcher Dave Symonds. From the very beginning, the focus was on doing things properly — understanding the materials, respecting the buildings, and honouring the traditions behind every roof.
In those early years, we followed the full traditional process. We grew our own wheat straw, cut it using old binding machines, dried it in the fields, hauled it into barns, and threshed it ready for the roof. That grounding gave me a deep understanding of the material — how it behaves, how it lasts, and how to use it well — long before it is ever laid.
I spent four years labouring before progressing to thatching, learning every stage of the craft, including traditional skills such as splitting hazel and making spars and liggers. These time-served methods remain central to my work today.
Over 17 years working alongside Dave, I thatched a wide variety of buildings, from private homes and new builds to sensitive listed properties. I’ve since been trusted to work on several National Trust sites, including The Old Forge at Branscombe, Thomas Hardy’s Cottage, Agatha Christie’s Boathouse, and the Althorp Estate — places where care, accuracy, and respect for history truly matter.
Today, I work across a wide area of the South West, although I have worked on projects across the UK including projects in the Midlands and even on The Isle of Skye, bringing over 30 years of combined experience to every project. I integrate traditional techniques with carefully chosen modern tools, always using high-quality materials known to last, to create roofs that are authentic, built for the future and comply with all the latest building regulations.
I take great pride in my work, and there’s nothing better than seeing a finished roof sitting naturally on a building, ready to protect it for decades to come.
If you’re considering thatching work — whether on a historic property or a much-loved home — I’m always happy to have an initial conversation, offer honest advice, and discuss the best approach for your building.
A Lifetime Dedicated to Traditional Thatching
We offer a full range of Thatching Services
Full re-roofs
Maintenance and repairs
Moss removal
Wire netting/bird damage repair and prevention
Timberwork , rafters wallplates facias , to felt and re batten , treat timbers
Fire felt and fire boarding
All types of ridging
Thatch surveys, assessments and advice
Emergency call outs, temporary sheeting, storm damage
We use traditional methods and tools but sometimes combining some more modern methods when necessary.
Materials
Water Reed
Whilst some water read is grown in the U.K, high quality water reed is also imported mainly from Eastern Europe and Asia.
Wheat Straw
Wheat straw is grown around the U.K and locally produced straw is used wherever possible.
Handsplit Hazel
Handsplit hazel to make spars and liggers to secure the ridge and straw in place.
The Art of Thatching
As a Master Thatcher my work blends centuries-old craftsmanship with an in depth knowledge of today’s building standards to deliver roofs of lasting beauty and integrity.
Skilled in traditional materials like water reed and wheat straw, we understand regional styles, historical accuracy, and environmental considerations. With an expert eye for detail, they shape, stitch, and secure each bundle by hand—ensuring weatherproofing and structural harmony.
From listed cottages to bespoke new builds, a skilled master thatcher offers more than a roof—we offer heritage preserved with precision. Our work is both art and architecture, combining practical protection with timeless character.
At R J S Thatching we are proud to continue the time honoured craft of thatching, using traditional methods and materials to produce beautiful and lasting roofs. We are based in Bridport West Dorset but have worked on projects throughout the UK, from listed buildings to new builds.
Please feel free to contact us to arrange a site visit and a no obligation quote. Whether you require a full strip and rethatch, a ridge replacement or repair no matter how big or small the job we can advise on the best course of action to meet your needs.
