Recce the woods. Learn the land. Share the finds.
Date: Tuesday 29th September
Time: early morning (about 2 to 3 hours)
Meeting point: Wolsingham Train Station - we will drive to Hamsterley Forest from here
Cost: Free
Places: 6-8 places, so booking is essential - contact steve@forward-assist.com
About the event
Autumn is peak mushroom season in the North East, and the woods are full of them. Join fellow veterans on a guided fungi walk through Hamsterley Forest, led by Steve Doggett, an experienced mycologist.
You'll learn how to spot, identify and understand the mushrooms growing around us. That includes prized edibles like ceps, chanterelles, hedgehog fungus and chicken of the woods, and the dangerous lookalikes every forager needs to know.
It's part detective work and part nature walk, with plenty of time for a brew and a chat. It takes patience, attention to detail and a good eye, and plenty of veterans find they already have all three.
No experience needed. Beginners are very welcome. Neurodivergent friendly.
What to bring
Sturdy boots and clothing for the weather
A basket or paper bag (not plastic, as mushrooms sweat)
A small knife if you have one, plus your phone for photos
A drink and a snack (we'll bring the brew)
Who it's for
Veterans from all services and eras. Partners and family welcome.
Golden rule ⚠️
Never eat any wild mushroom unless our expert guide has confirmed it's safe. Some UK species can kill, and several deadly ones look very like edible varieties.
Good to know
The route covers woodland paths that may be muddy or uneven. Please tell us about any access needs when you book.
We follow the Wild Mushroom Pickers' Code: pick only what we'll use, leave plenty for wildlife and never pick where it's restricted.
Book your place: 6-8 places available, so booking is essential - contact steve@forward-assist.com
Morel Support runs at least fortnightly through the autumn season. Follow Forward Assist Events for future dates.
