Guided foraging walks

Welcome to the world of foraging, where the enchanting tapestry of nature meets the thrill of discovery. I am passionate about sharing the magic of foraging with you.

With a deep-rooted connection to the natural world and a commitment to responsible practices, I invite you to join me on an educational journey through the bountiful landscapes that surround us.

My name is Thomas Baumgartner and I have been running regular foraging walks for many years in the Cotswolds under the name of Cotswold Foraging Experience.

Cotswolds Foraging Walk

Why don't you come to Cheltenham / the Cotswolds and join me as a forager here in the Cotswold on one of my foraging walks.

My foraging walks are designed to immerse you in the wonder of the great outdoors, allowing you to connect with the Earth, learn about local flora, and experience the rich tapestry of nature in a way you've never imagined.

All the foraging walks promise an unforgettable adventure, where every step is a discovery and every plant tells a story. Whether you're a seasoned forager or a curious novice, there's always something new to learn and experience in the vast, natural pantry that awaits.

Wildflowers & Plants: Foraging Walk

When you come on one of my foraging courses, I will teach you how to safely identify wildflowers and edible plants and I will also provide helpful information on how to use it.

Duration: 2.5 hours
Location: Cheltenham / Gloucestershire
Cost: £30-37 per person (Discounts available for groups)
Included: Foraging booklet & sampling of foraged things*

My foraging walks focusing on wildflowers & plants include sampling a selection of foraged items such as pickled wild garlic buds, elderflower cordial, rowanberry vodka, hazelnuts etc.

My foraging walks focussing on wildflowers & plants can be booked via Airbnb Experiences (LINK).

Private foraging walks and personal foraging courses can also be organised for your team, school, group, stag do or hen do. Location can be flexible.

Mushroom Foraging Walk for Beginners

All my mushroom foraging walks for beginners are bookable either via Eventbrite or via Instagram. Please do get in touch with me to obtain more details about my mushroom foraging courses for beginners.

Duration: 3.5 - 4 hours
Location: Forest of Dean / Gloucestershire
Cost: £30-37 per person (Discounts available for groups)
Included: Mushroom Foraging booklet

Do you fancy going on a foraging walk on your hen do or with your company or school?

If you desire a more personalised touch, don't hesitate to reach out for private foraging walks tailored to your group, party, school, or company.

Let's embark on a journey of discovery together, where nature's secrets are revealed, and the joy of foraging becomes a shared adventure.

Seasonal Foraging Highlights

Each season brings its own unique treasures to the foraging basket. Spring heralds the arrival of tender wild garlic and vibrant pignuts, while summer offers juicy blackberries and aromatic elderflowers. As autumn approaches, the woodlands provide an abundance of mushrooms and chestnuts, and winter, though quieter, still has its share of hardy greens and nutritious roots.

Join my walks and experience the ever-changing bounty of nature throughout the year.

Foraging Classes - Educational and Fun

My foraging walks are not just about gathering wild food; they are about education and enjoyment. You'll learn about the historical uses, nutritional benefits, and culinary applications of various plants and fungi. Each walk includes hands-on identification lessons, sustainable harvesting practices, and delicious recipes you can try at home. Come prepared to ask questions, taste new flavours, and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow nature enthusiasts.

Foraging Walks as a Family-Friendly Adventure

Foraging is an excellent activity for families. It encourages children to explore, learn, and develop a deep appreciation for nature. Our family-friendly foraging walks are designed to be engaging for young foragers, with interactive elements and simple identification techniques. Equip your children with the knowledge and respect for the natural world that will last them a lifetime.

Foraging as a Corporate and Team-Building Event

Looking for a unique team-building activity? The corporate foraging walks offer a fantastic way to bring your team together in a natural setting. Working together to identify and gather wild foods fosters cooperation and communication, while the shared experience creates lasting memories.

Tailored to suit your company's needs, our events can be as relaxed or challenging as you like.

Foraging Walks - Gift Vouchers Available

Give the gift of foraging! Gift vouchers are perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, or any special occasion. Surprise your loved ones with an adventure in nature, where they can learn, explore, and enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. Contact me to purchase a voucher and give a unique, eco-friendly gift.

Foraging Walk: Sustainability and Conservation

At the heart of our foraging philosophy is a deep respect for nature. We practice and teach sustainable harvesting methods to ensure that wild plant populations remain healthy and abundant. Our walks emphasize the importance of leaving no trace and respecting local wildlife and habitats. Become a responsible forager and help us protect the beautiful landscapes we explore.

Foraging Walk Testimonials & Customer Reviews

Don't just take my word for it – hear from those who have joined my foraging walks. Read testimonials from past participants who have discovered the joys of foraging and gained new knowledge and skills. Their experiences highlight the sense of accomplishment and wonder that comes from connecting with nature in such an intimate way.

How to prepare for a foraging walk

Prepare for your foraging walk with these tips to ensure you have the best experience possible:

Wear appropriate clothing and sturdy footwear for walking in natural settings.
Bring a basket or bag for collecting your finds, and a small knife or scissors for harvesting.
Don't forget a notebook and pen for taking notes during the walk.
Stay hydrated and bring a snack if you anticipate getting hungry.
Most importantly, bring your curiosity and enthusiasm!

Foraging Walk - Conclusions

Foraging for wild edible plants in the UK is more than just a hobby; it is a way to forge a deeper connection with nature and to embrace the rich heritage of Britain's diverse ecosystems. As you wander through ancient woodlands, explore dense hedgerows, or meander along rugged coastal regions, you’ll discover a bounty of wild foods that offer both incredible flavours and remarkable nutritional benefits.

The delights of wild garlic, blackberries, and elderflowers can transform your understanding of seasonal eating, while the tartness of sloe berries and the tenderness of dandelion greens can add unique dimensions to your culinary repertoire. Each plant you find is a testament to the UK's rich botanical diversity, inviting you to savor the tastes that our landscapes have to offer.

By responsibly identifying and harvesting these plants, you contribute to sustainable foraging practices that respect and preserve natural habitats. This mindful approach allows you to enjoy the gifts of the land while ensuring that future generations can also experience the wonders of wild foraging. As the seasons change, so too will the array of available plants, from springtime's vibrant pignut and nourishing nettles to summer's succulent rock samphire.

Our comprehensive guide to 50 common UK wild edible plants is designed to enhance your foraging adventures, providing you with the knowledge and confidence to safely gather wild foods. Each detailed plant profile offers insights into identification, uses, and benefits, ensuring that your foraging experiences are both enjoyable and fruitful.

So grab your foraging basket, arm yourself with a reliable field guide, and immerse yourself in the endless possibilities of nature’s pantry. The adventure awaits, promising not only the joy of discovery but also the satisfaction of bringing wild, nutritious ingredients from the countryside to your table.

Happy foraging!