Spend a day exploring the woodland in spring, learning to identify, harvest, and cook wild plants. Guided by experienced instructors, you’ll discover edible and medicinal species, hear their history and folklore, and finish the day by preparing and enjoying a communal meal made from your foraged ingredients. This hands-on course blends practical skills with a relaxed, educational walk through varied habitats.
The morning begins with a gentle guided walk across hedges, woodland edges, grassy clearings, and other habitats. Instructors will demonstrate plant identification, distinguishing edible, poisonous, and medicinal species, while sharing folklore and practical uses in bushcraft. You’ll have plenty of time to take notes, ask questions, and photograph the plants for later reference.
You’ll also learn how to sustainably harvest plants, including techniques for collecting, preparing, and tasting raw ingredients. The afternoon is spent back at the woodland base camp, where you will prepare a two-course meal using your foraged ingredients. Optional instruction on cooking small game or birds is available, and dietary requirements are accommodated when notified in advance.
The day concludes with a communal meal, allowing you to enjoy the flavours you’ve helped create while reflecting on the skills and knowledge gained. The course is relaxed in pace but provides a comprehensive introduction to spring foraging, leaving you more confident in identifying and using wild plants in everyday life.
South London Woods, on the Surrey–Croydon boundary, offers a safe and accessible environment for foraging. The woodland features a mix of habitats including edges, hedgerows, and open clearings, giving you the chance to see a wide variety of spring plants in their natural context.
Private courses can also be arranged at the South Wales woodland in the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park. This location provides a more remote setting with diverse terrain, perfect for families or groups wanting an immersive foraging experience.
No previous experience in foraging or bushcraft is needed. Participants should be able to walk moderate distances over woodland paths and public footpaths, and enjoy spending time outdoors in variable spring conditions.
General outdoor clothing and footwear suitable for walking and standing are required. You may wish to bring a light snack or lunch, though a two-course meal will be provided in the afternoon.
The instructors bring years of practical experience and extensive knowledge of edible and medicinal plants. Their teaching combines hands-on guidance, storytelling, and historical context to create a rich, engaging learning experience for all participants.
Small group sizes allow personalised instruction and plenty of opportunity for questions. The focus on sustainable foraging and woodland cooking ensures you gain practical skills, confidence, and an appreciation for the natural world you can carry into everyday life.
About the centre
South London
We partner with Rewilding Britain to help protect our natural spaces for future adventures.
All centres are vetted for safety and quality. Your adventure is in good hands with adventuro.
