The Foraging Course Company

Foraging courses and nature experiences in central England and East Anglia

The Foraging Course Company, which operates under the Hedgerows and Hagstones brand, is a British company founded by Kerry Bowness. Its offering focuses on guided experiences for adults centred on wild plants, fungi, folklore, mythology, ecology and natural history. The company is in the process of rebranding: the name Hedgerows and Hagstones better reflects its current approach, which goes beyond the edible to encompass the science and stories associated with natural species.

Activities and formats available

The catalogue includes foraging courses, plant folklore walks, plant and fungi identification workshops, talks and natural history experiences. Events are held throughout the year. In the winter months, indoor talks predominate. Spring and summer foraging courses focus mainly on plants, while fungi are more common in autumn. Courses in coastal locations include coastal species. The company warns that it cannot guarantee which species will be found on a given day, as this depends to a large extent on prior weather conditions. According to published information, they will stop offering regular foraging courses from June 2027.

Geographic coverage

Events take place in the central counties of England and East Anglia. The company lists the following areas: Bedfordshire, Birmingham, Buckinghamshire, Cambridgeshire, Derbyshire, Gloucestershire, Norfolk, Nottinghamshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, West Midlands and Worcestershire.

Audience and approach

The activities are designed exclusively for adults, regardless of their previous level of experience. The company combines scientific knowledge and storytelling to create immersive experiences. Its work is underpinned by a commitment to conservation, sustainability and responsible engagement with nature.

Address and team

The director and lead instructor is Kerry Bowness, BSc, HND, a recognised outdoor learning professional and registered practitioner of the Institute for Outdoor Learning. She has a long track record as a wild food instructor, plant and fungi identification teacher and folklore storyteller.

Bookings, vouchers and private events

The company offers redeemable vouchers and organises private events, although dates are booked up quickly. To hold a private course, permission from the landowner is required. Dates for new events are published as they are confirmed by venues. The company also handles requests for help with plant and fungi identification, although it only responds to those from its customers.

Location and contact

The Foraging Course Company Ltd, Bloxham Mill Business Centre, Barford Road, Bloxham, OX15 4FF · Phone: 02477 360222 · Email: info@foragingcoursecompany.co.uk