Our History
Darenth Valley Forge is an artisan blacksmith’s with deep roots in Kent. We’ve been at our current location in Eynsford since 1997, using our traditional tools and equipment to provide stunning, artistic pieces for both private and commercial clients.
The business was originally started by Godfrey C. South FWCB in 1982, who emigrated to Canada. Rhys Harlin, who had trained with Godfrey since the age of 15, took over the forge in late October 2012.
He brings to the forge his passion, work ethic and artistic flair.
Our Work
As artisan blacksmiths, we specialise in hand-forged bespoke Ironwork – including sculptures & public art,ornate iron gates, balconies and ironwork restoration.
We carry out our work for clients across Kent, Surrey, London, Sussex, the South East and further afield. We’re happy to take on projects from clients anywhere in the UK.
You can see some of our completed work in the gallery here and get an insight into our forge in the video below:
Our Story
Founded in 1982 by master blacksmith Godfrey South F.W.C.B, Darenth Valley Forge has grown from a small village forge in Eynsford to a nationally recognised studio of craftsmanship.
Today, under the leadership of award-winning blacksmith Rhys Harlin F.W.C.B, the forge continues to blend tradition with innovation—creating bespoke gates, railings, sculptures, and restoring historic ironwork for future generations.
About Rhys
Having studied metalwork at college alongside working with master blacksmith Godfrey South, Rhys has been able to develop his own style of work.
He combines traditional and modern methods, to complete uniquely artistic and yet dependable finished articles.
Having worked for many well-known companies and organisations as well as other blacksmiths, Rhys has developed a vast knowledge of all aspects of Ironwork.
This has helped him to achieve awards from the Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths, as well as picking up prizes on the national championship blacksmiths circuit.
Recognition & Expertise
Awards from Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths
Recognition for exceptional craftsmanship
10+ years experience in ironwork
Mastery through dedicated practice
National championship recognition
Competing at the highest level
Combines ancient + modern techniques
Bridging tradition with innovation
"I have always had a passion for metal... It's an extremely satisfying process to take raw materials and transform them into something both beautiful and functional."
About Rhys
Having studied metalwork at college alongside working with master blacksmith Godfrey South, Rhys has been able to develop his own style of work. He combines traditional and modern methods, to complete uniquely artistic and yet dependable finished articles.
Having worked for many well-known companies and organisations as well as other blacksmiths, Rhys has developed a vast knowledge of all aspects of Ironwork. This has helped him to achieve awards from the Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths, as well as picking up prizes on the national championship blacksmiths circuit.
“I have always had a passion for metal. It may be known for its unyielding nature, but I know that with extreme heat and accurate force I can transform that crude raw material into something of great beauty. It’s an extremely satisfying process.”
– Rhys Harlin, Artisan Blacksmith at Darenth Valley Forge
His personal artistic style and flair is influenced by many smiths past and present and, despite his modern training, he still uses many ancient blacksmithing techniques (such as mortise and Tenon joints, rivets, collars and fire welding) to create beautiful, unique pieces of Ironwork for any purpose.
Don’t hesitate to Contact us if you have any enquiries.
National Award Winning Artisan Smiths
Rhys Harlin is an award winning Blacksmith. He has competed in various competitions throughout the South East & the UK and has demonstrated his skills and talents to the general public and to various blacksmiths.
Rhys has also been presented with various awards from the Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths, most recently a bronze medal and the title of “Master Blacksmith” for a very high standard of work.
OUR BLACKSMITHING AWARDS INCLUDE
- Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths- Bronze Medal -title of Master Blacksmith 2023
- Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths –Diploma of Merit A.W.C.B 2016
- Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths – Journeyman’s Certificate -2013
- Worshipful Company of Blacksmiths – Certificate of Merit -2013
- National Champion Blacksmith 2016 (static)
- Reserve Live champion 2016 (live forging)
Our Latest Works
Bespoke Garden Gate
Wrought Iron Gates -Genuine Wrought Iron
