Join me for an exploratory morning foraging around the grounds and woodlands of Hawkwood, on the outskirts of Stroud. Afterwards we will head back to the Studio to make a simple wildcrafted ferment. Along the way you will learn many essential basics of foraging and fermenting, plus the best ways to combine the two.

At a glance:

• Learn from a foraging tutor with 20+ years of practical foraging experience

• Get an understanding of lacto-fermentation as a preserving technique

• Spend time outdoors in a safe natural learning environment

What you will gain:

• A greater appreciation of the bounty that surrounds you

• A preliminary understanding of the laws and guidelines of foraging

• A good basic grounding in the principles of fermentation

• And of course, a delicious jar of wildcrafted fermented produce to take home

Morning exploration outdoors

Following a short introduction, we will head out to explore the area surrounding the college. As you walk, we will talk to about the importance of recognising different habitats whilst foraging, and will discuss some of the laws and ethics. We will chat about what you discover, and also how it could be used, including key identification points, edibility, cooking and preserving uses.

Once we have explored for a couple of hours, we will head back to the college for lunch.

Learning about fermentation

The afternoon starts with your fermentation session in Studio One.  I will explain about the theory of fermentation and then you will use some of your foraged items collected in the morning to make a simple wild sauerkraut. We will discuss potential issues, how to avoid/overcome them, and how to further your fermentation journey.

Depending on the timing of the afternoon fermentation session, you may get an opportunity for another shorter foraging walk before heading home.

Duration: 6 hours

Price: £95 per person, including lunch, purchased via Hawkwood.