Mushroom Foraging
Experience Our Signature Mushroom Foraging Day
Join us in the stunning woodlands around River Cottage for a hands-on foraging adventure during peak autumn fungi season. Inspired by the River Cottage Mushroom Handbook, you’ll learn to safely identify and gather a variety of wild mushrooms while connecting with nature.
For years, this course was led by John Wright, a familiar face from the River Cottage TV show. Now, he’s passed the baton to Nick Phillips, an experienced forager who brings a fresh perspective, blending folklore with expert knowledge. Under his guidance, you’ll forage responsibly, using two baskets—one for edible finds, another for interesting discoveries.
By the end of the day, you’ll have newfound skills, a keen eye for foraging opportunities, and a deeper appreciation for nature’s bounty.
Scroll down for the full itinerary!
Highlights
- Meet expert forager Nick Phillips – Learn from his deep knowledge and engaging storytelling.
- Head into the wild – Explore the stunning countryside and discover a variety of mushrooms.
- Master safe identification – Learn how to forage responsibly and only pick what’s needed.
- Watch our chefs in action – See wild ingredients transformed in a live cooking demo.
- Enjoy a delicious foraged feast – Enjoy a meal crafted by our award-winning River Cottage chefs.
Your day
10:00 - 17:00
Arrive at River Cottage
You’ll be met at the top of the hill and begin your River Cottage experience with a 10-15 minute walk through the pathways down to the farm, enabling you to really soak up the views of the valley.
Make yourself at home
You will be greeted by our friendly front of house team with tea, coffee and treats fresh from the kitchen. Your host Nick Phillips will begin by introducing the day before you set off on your forage.
Morning forage
Your forage starts in the stunning countryside along the Devon/Dorset border. Under Nick’s expert guidance, you will learn how to safely identify, pick, and prepare various fungi. While we can’t guarantee what you’ll discover during your forage, there will always be fascinating finds and plenty to discuss!
Snack break
We’ll keep your energy up with refreshing tea and coffee, along with some delicious snacks to enjoy throughout the day.
A further forage
After your snack, you'll continue your foray, eager to discover even more wild treasures hidden in the woods.
Late lunch
At River Cottage, food takes centre stage, and you'll enjoy a delightful two-course seasonal lunch that showcases the best of your foraged finds.
Demo session one
In the afternoon, you'll experience a cookery demonstration by one of our talented resident chefs, along with a showcase of your foraged finds that Nick will explore in greater detail.
Departure
At the end of the day, you'll confidently make your way back up the hill to our car park by 5 PM, equipped with the skills to maximise your future field and woodland walks.
Further Information
Directions
This course is run from River Cottage HQ on the Dorset/Devon borders. Full address details of HQ will be provided once you have booked.
Licensed Venue
We are a licensed venue. We have a wide selection of the finest organic wines available to purchase.
Accommodation
If you would like to stay at the heart of River Cottage, we offer overnight accommodation at River Cottage HQ in our beautiful 17th century farmhouse. We have three stylishly refurbished bedrooms for B&B plus the 2-bedroom Gardener's Cottage. These get booked quickly so for more information go to rivercottage.net/stay to book. Alternatively, we have put together a list of our local accommodation which includes B&Bs, self-catering, hotels and camping.
Suitability
We would advise that this course is only really suitable for 12 years of age and upwards. Under 16s must be accompanied by a paying adult. We put these guidelines in place for the safety, comfort and enjoyment of all our guests.
Allergy Advice
Please let us know if you have any dietary requirements or allergies when booking.
