The team at Fordhall Farm, England’s first community-owned farm are gearing up for their annual fungi foraging event on Saturday 4th October.

Prepare to be inspired as John Hughes (fungi expert) will guide you through the meadows and woodlands at Fordhall Farm, on a hunt to discover an extraordinary mushroom foray. Unlock the mysteries of the natural world!

Mushroom Mosey will commence at 10am, followed by a three-course mushroom lunch prepared by Arthur’s Farm Kitchen. Visitors will explore the weird and wonderful world of mushrooms, with like-minded folk from the local Shropshire area.

Mushrooms root in the history of Fordhall Farm back to the founder and organic pioneer Arthur Hollins (1915-2005). Arthur understood that ‘Mother Earth’ would correct man-made errors if left to heal herself. He started to grow mushrooms commercially, finding they not only provided a much-needed source of income, but also large quantities of spent compost, which helped to improve the condition of Fordhall’s soil. Mushrooms share a role in nature as the ultimate recyclers, breaking down complex organic matter and transforming it into new life.

“Nature’s technology is born of millions of years’ experience: man’s is only a century or two old. My teacher must be nature.” Arthur Hollins, The Listener, December 2nd 1971.

Charlotte Hollins, Arthur’s daughter and manager of the Fordhall Community Land Initiative said “We love celebrating mushrooms and fungi in all their glory at Fordhall. A warm dry summer followed by a wet autumn can often result in a great mushroom display! The mushroom is actually the fruit of the fungi, so it is a wonderful opportunity for the fungi world that is often hidden under our feet, to raise itself above the soil surface to say hello. As Dad knew, fungi are a vital part of our soil system, helping us to cycle nutrients and they even help trees and other plants communicate to each other. But expert John Hughes will tell you far more! Our Chef, Dan, also has a treat instore for everyone who joins in.

“If you have seen mushrooms on your travels and always wondered which are safe to eat and which are not, then John is the person to speak to.”

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the magical world of mushrooms and enjoy the beautiful landscapes Fordhall Farm.

Places need to be prebooked in advance through the Fordhall Farm website, the foraging walk will be around 2.5–3 hours, over uneven farm field terrain. If walking longer distances is a challenge for you, the team have an off-road mobility scooter (Tramper), which can be booked for the duration on a first come, first served basis. If you would like to inquire about

using the Tramper availability. Alternatively, please call 01630 638 696 to place your booking

To book please head to the Fordhall Farm website. Questions or queries? Please contact This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., or call 01630 638 696.