Embark on a delightful late spring foraging adventure as we traverse the stunning countryside of West Sussex, uncovering the secrets of wild foods and the natural wonders that surround us. Guided by our knowledgeable Estate forager George, this journey is not just a walk, it’s an exploration of edible treasures and a commitment to preserving their habitats for generations to come.
During this late spring stroll, the spotlight will be on the identification and uses of a diverse array of wild vegetables and herbs. Late spring is an opportune time for learning foraging, offering a chance to identify a plethora of wild edibles. Many edible species showcase their vibrant flowers at this time, while others, nestled in sheltered patches, are still in their vegetative state. This unique combination allows us to closely examine each plant, understanding how its position in the landscape influences its seasonal progression. George will also showcase how the flavors of a species can transform as it journeys through its life cycle.
Guests can expect to encounter a large variety of species in the prime of their season, including Elder, Wild Onion, Linden Leaves, Vetch, Garlic Mustard, Sorrel, Common Hogweed, and Yarrow.
This is a circular walk that commences and concludes at the Cowdray Farm Shop overflow car park, winding through undulating terrain and lasting approximately 2.5 hours.
Please be sure to wear footwear suitable for varying terrain, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable foraging experience.
Join us on this adventure, where every step brings you closer to the heart of nature’s bounty.
Click here to find out more about Foraging at Cowdray. George will vary walk locations around the Estate to give you the best walk which encapsulates the season. Please see the reminder email sent out before the event to get the exact start location to your walk.
Meet George, Cowdray’s Forager:
George has been foraging and using wild foods for some years, supplying the freshest foraged wild edibles to some of the country’s top restaurants, chefs and food establishments.
After years of being immersed in the ‘wild’ himself, George now focuses on encouraging others to appreciate the significance of our native countryside, and how we can enjoy and protect it for future generations.
Over his years of foraging George has accrued an in-depth knowledge of our countryside, its diverse habitats and the variety of plants and fungi each contains. He has covered the length and breadth of the country from the Scottish Highlands to the moors and coasts of Cornwall, in search of new native edibles as well as sustainable sources to pick them. Working closely with chefs consulting on what, when and how to use each ingredient to best showcase them has led George to be featured on programmes like BBC’s Saturday Kitchen, following the journey from the forests and fields to fork. George now hopes to inspire you on your own adventure of discovery.