With its diverse landscapes and rich biodiversity, Cornwall is a haven for wild food enthusiasts.
From the hedgerows and meadows to the rocky shoreline and sandy beaches, there’s an array of plants, fruits, and fungi waiting to be discovered. Foraging in Cornwall offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature, learn about the local ecosystem, and sample the region’s natural bounty. Whether you’re a seasoned forager or a curious beginner, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to get started. So, grab your basket and let’s explore the wild and free world of foraging in Cornwall.
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Kynance Cove
In addition to the stunning scenery, Kynance Cove is a great place to forage for wild edibles. One of the most commonly found plants here is the sea beet, a leafy green plant that’s a close relative of spinach and is often used in salads or stir-fries. It can be found growing in the sand dunes and rocky cliffs of the cove. Another wild edible that can be found here is wild garlic, which has a strong, pungent flavor and can be used in a variety of dishes, such as soups, stews, and pesto. Keep an eye out for the broad, shiny leaves and the distinctive garlic smell to locate this tasty treat. When foraging at Kynance Cove, it’s important to be aware of the tides and not to venture too far out onto the rocks or cliffs. It’s also important to only take what you need and leave plenty behind for others and for the ecosystem.
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Golitha Falls
Golitha Falls is a beautiful place to explore for those who love to forage. The area is known for its abundance of wild berries, including raspberries, blackberries, and elderberries, which can be used in a variety of recipes. However, it’s important to make sure you can identify them correctly before consuming them. Golitha Falls is also home to a variety of wild mushrooms, but it’s crucial to have a good understanding of how to identify them as some can be poisonous. As always, it’s best to go foraging with an experienced guide who can help you identify the plants and mushrooms safely.
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Bodmin Moor
In addition to bilberries and wild thyme, Bodmin Moor also has an abundance of wild garlic, which can be used in many dishes. You may also come across nettles, which are high in nutrients and can be used in a variety of ways, such as making tea, soup, or pesto. However, be careful when handling them as they can cause a stinging sensation. Other wild edibles that can be found in Bodmin Moor include gorse flowers, which can be used to make syrup or tea, and wild strawberries, which make a delicious snack while out foraging. It’s important to note that Bodmin Moor can be a challenging terrain to navigate, so it’s recommended to go with an experienced forager or guide.
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Lizard Peninsula
In addition to sea kale and rock samphire, the Lizard Peninsula is also home to wild fennel, a herb that’s commonly used in Mediterranean cuisine. You might also come across wild strawberries, blackberries, and sloes. However, it’s important to note that some areas of the Lizard Peninsula are protected, so make sure you have permission before foraging.
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Helford River
In addition to shellfish and sea purslane, the Helford River area is also home to a variety of wild herbs and berries. Keep an eye out for wild fennel, which has a sweet, aniseed flavour and can be used in a range of dishes. You might also find blackberries and sloes, which are great for making jams, jellies, and even gin. It’s important to note that some areas of the Helford River are protected, so make sure to check for any restrictions or guidelines before you forage.
In conclusion, foraging in Cornwall is a wonderful way to connect with nature and discover the delicious and nutritious foods that grow all around us. However, it’s important to educate yourself about foraging regulations and safety precautions before embarking on a foraging adventure. We highly recommend going out with an experienced forager to ensure your safety and maximize your foraging success. Emma Gunn from Never Mind the Burdocks is a fantastic local forager and guide who can show you the ropes and lead you to some fantastic foraging spots in Cornwall.
So why not give it a try and explore the wild and free world of foraging in Cornwall?
