We’re all becoming more curious about where our food comes from — so what could be more delightful than discovering what’s growing wild around us, waiting to be noticed, smelled, and sampled?
Join expert guide Nick Phillips for a relaxed and informative springtime foraging walk through the beautiful woodlands and winding tracks of the Symondsbury Estate. Nick will introduce you to nature’s spring pantry, exploring the fresh new growth of the season and teaching you how to spot and identify a variety of wild spring leaves, shoots, herbs, early fruits, nuts, and any emerging mushrooms.
As we wander through hedgerows, woodland edges, and hidden pathways, you’ll build confidence in recognising beginner-friendly edible plants, while also learning what to avoid and the principles of responsible, sustainable foraging.
Along the way, Nick will share captivating folklore, traditional uses, and the medicinal and survival history behind many of the plants and fungi you encounter — bringing the landscape and its stories vividly to life.
We’ll pause to enjoy a few seasonal wild tastes and snacks as we soak up the peaceful atmosphere of the Estate’s holloways and shaded woodland corners, discovering just how much abundance spring has to offer.
After the walk, Nick will send a follow‑up summary of what was found on the day, helping you continue your foraging journey with confidence and curiosity.
Date: Saturday 16th May 2026 and Saturday 23rd May 2026
Time: 11am - 2.30pm
Location: Meet in the Visitor Centre
Please Note: This event will be run outdoors so please bring appropriate clothing for wet or cold weather, sturdy footwear and we would recommend wearing long trousers to protect yourself from bites and ticks.
Event Details
Date: Saturday 16th May 2026 and Saturday 23rd May 2026
Time: 11am - 2.30pm
Location: Meet in the Visitor Centre
Program For The Day:
11.00am - Course starts
2pm - 2.30pm - Course finishes
About Nick Phillips
Nick, who is accredited by the Association of Foragers, runs a gourmet mushroom farm (a fungarium) in North Chideock. Raised under the shadow of Colmers Hill, his grandmother would wander the hills of the area with her basket, which Nick uses today, and take her grandchildren with her on her forays. Nick has a special connection to the land here, living nearby and knowing the fields and woodlands like the back of his hand. His passion for foraging really took off 14 years ago whilst living in London, he would be out looking for all the finest and strangest mushrooms of the ancient woodlands of Epping, Penn woods and the South Downs.
Grown Up Mushrooms forage in line with the Association of Foragers' code of ethics, only taking what is necessary and highlighting tips and tricks you can do to help the network spread.
Terms & Conditions
Please note, tickets for all events and workshops are non-refundable and non-transferable. Please note this course is suitable for people aged 16+ and dogs will not be allowed to attend. Maximum 12 people per course.
Even at Symondsbury Estate the weather is unpredictable. If conditions are incompatible with your activity, then Mother Nature may force us to postpone this experience at short notice. You can choose to be refunded or booked onto another course if available.
