Wild Food Forage
About this Event
The Autumn Larder
Our experienced guide will lead a walking tour through Chorlton Water Park, where you will learn to identify various species of edible and useful plants and fungi. This session is suitable for all skill levels, and no specialist equipment is required.
"Without natural history knowledge, a walk in nature is like visiting a gallery where nine-tenths of the art is turned to the wall." - Thomas Henry Huxley
A Veritable 'Sporgasbord'
This course is an introduction to the fascinating world of fungi, as well as the trees and plants of the forest. With over 15,000 species of fungi in the UK, identification can be incredibly challenging. For your safety, we won't be sampling any edible mushrooms. Instead, the session will give you the knowledge to identify some of the most common species and understand their uses throughout history.
Chorlton Water Park
Situated in South Manchester along the banks of the River Mersey, this local nature reserve features a central lake surrounded by scenic woodland, wildflower meadows, and trail networks. The park offers a free car park accessed via Maitland Avenue, as well as easy access via the Barlow Moor Road Metrolink stop and nearby bus routes along Barlow Moor Road.
About Growing Manchester
This course is proudly offered through Growing MCR, Manchester City Council's flagship community food growing programme. Growing MCR is delivered in partnership with award-winning social enterprise, Sow the City. The programme provides free support, training, and advice to over 150 food-growing groups across the city, helping people connect with nature and lead happier, more sustainable lives.
Session Information
Meeting Time and Location The session starts promptly at 11:00 AM, setting off from the car park. This is most conveniently accessed via the Maitland Avenue entrance.
Walk Details
The walk will complete an approximate 2 km loop around the central lake and through the surrounding woodland and River Mersey paths. The paths are generally flat and packed earth or gravel, though some sections along the river bank can be uneven or muddy.
Clothing
Please dress for the weather and wear appropriate footwear, as parts of the nature reserve can be uneven or muddy after rain. We recommend bringing a drink and waterproof clothing in case of rain.
Photography
At the start of the session we may ask for consent to take photos and videos; if you would prefer not to be photographed, please let the facilitator know.
Toilets & Refreshments
Toilets are located near the main entrance/car park area. Food and drink options are periodically available from mobile refreshment vans on-site or nearby local cafés along Barlow Moor Road.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
GBP 0.00
