Rivington Mushroom Forage! With wild gin :D

My favourite place, Rivington Terraced Gardens, is a fantastic spot to visit. A few years ago, Gardeners' World came here to look at the gardens, and I talked to them about mushrooms (you can find the clip on my website: www.foresthorizons.co.uk). As you’ll see from the video, it can be an incredible place for fungi.

The gardens were originally built by industrialist and social philanthropist Lord Leverhulme, and feature oriental structures, dramatic ravines, and waterfalls. After decades of neglect, the site is now being lovingly restored by the Rivington Heritage Trust with the help of volunteers. Many of the paths and water features have been renovated, and the whole place looks more stunning than I ever remember.

We’ll be foraging for berries and mushrooms. One to look out for is Gaultheria shallon, Lord Leverhulme’s favourite for jam making. Mushroom-wise, I’ll have my eye out for porcini and chanterelles (if we’re lucky), Russula and Lactarius species (which offer some surprising flavours), as well as medicinal mushrooms like turkey tail and birch polypore.

As part of the session, I’ll also introduce elements of Embodied Foraging, a practice I’ve developed that focuses on slowing down and tuning in to your senses. Through taste, touch, scent, and awareness, we’ll explore how deeper nature connection can emerge through direct sensory experience and mindful attention.

You’ll learn about the fascinating underground connections between mycelium and trees, the ecology, the relationships, and the role each species plays in the forest. We'll even talk about how wild gins are made (don’t worry, I’ll also bring non-alcoholic versions to sample).

Whether you're completely new to foraging or already have some experience, this is a fantastic learning opportunity. By the end of the walk, you’ll confidently recognise a few key species and understand how to continue building your identification skills.

Practical Info:

The walk is slow-paced and will cover about one to two miles, depending on how many detours we take. While we’ll stick to the paths, the gardens are set on a hillside, with lots of steps, and some muddy or slippery sections if it rains. Please wear boots or wellies and bring waterproofs.

We aim to forage enough wild ingredients for a fry-up and mushroom tasting at the end of the walk. Bring a packed lunch — we’ll stop somewhere scenic for a bite during the session.

What to Bring:

• Boots or wellies
• Waterproofs
• Lunch/snacks
• A foraging basket, staff, or knife if you have them (no problem if not)

Booking & Contact Info:

• No need to print your ticket — I’ll have your name on my list once you’ve booked.
• Refund Policy:I have a fair and honest refund policy. Refunds are automated up to 7 days before the event — just log in to Eventbrite and request one.I often have a waiting list, so if I can re-sell your ticket, I’ll refund up to the day before — just get in touch.Cancellations on the day usually cannot be refunded, as it's too late to re-sell the ticket.
• Email Contact:Whatever email you use on Eventbrite is the one I’ll use to send details and reminders.Please check it for confirmation and event info in the lead-up to the forage.If you prefer another way of staying in touch, let me know on 07984 123891.

Looking forward to seeing you soon, and here's hoping for a bumper season!

Col & Sadie

Forest Horizons

www.foresthorizons.co.uk