The rain returned for our last foraging walk on 19th July in North Cumbria, but so did the laughter and curiosity! It was a delight to see so many families and children on this trip. The rain didn’t slow us down one bit—in fact, it seemed to make the mushrooms pop with color, and the woods felt even more alive.
As we walked, the kids were full of brilliant questions, pointing out every mushroom they saw. We were able to talk about the different roles mushrooms play in the ecosystem, and how to safely identify the few edible ones we’re looking for, while also appreciating the many others we should leave alone. This is something I feel very strongly about—it’s not just about what we can take, but what we can learn to appreciate.
At one point, a young boy asked, “Are these biscuits from a fairy?” I had to laugh and tell him they were even better—they were homemade with wild foraged ingredients, of course! It was so wonderful to see the children’s faces light up when they tried a tasty biscuit made from something we had just found. That’s what it’s all about for me—sparking that sense of wonder and showing people, young and old, the magic that can be found right outside our doors.
These walks are a chance to reconnect with nature, learn new skills, and share a special experience with your family. It’s about seeing the world through new eyes and appreciating the small, beautiful things around us. I can’t wait to see you all again soon!