Published: 14 January 2025

Winter may seem like a quiet time for nature lovers, but don’t be fooled! Beneath the frost lie some great foraging treasures—if you know where to look. Whether you’re a regular forager or someone looking to get more involved with nature this winter, our guide will help you uncover nature’s hidden treats. Nuts and fruits still thrive in the chilliest months, so grab your basket and let’s get started.

The Charm of Winter Foraging

There’s something special about stepping out into the fresh air and discovering food and ingredients you didn’t realise were at your disposal. Winter foraging isn’t about quantity—it’s about quality and resourcefulness. Think roasted chestnuts by the fire or a sweet berry compote to liven up your morning porridge. Sounds delicious, right?

Nuts

Even in winter, some nuts are ripe and ready for picking. Here’s some to keep an eye out for:

  1. Sweet Chestnuts: A classic winter treat, perfect for roasting. Look for a spiky green shell on the ground, and make sure the nuts inside are shiny and firm. Avoid any with small holes, as they’re likely to have been claimed by insects already. Chestnuts are easier to peel when warm, so roast them over an open fire or in the oven.
  2. Beechnuts: Although beechnuts are small and tricky to shell, they’re a tasty snack. You’ll find them in triangular shells beneath beech trees. Be mindful, though—they’re best enjoyed in moderation, as large quantities can be slightly toxic.
  3. Pine Nuts: Though typically harvested in late summer to early autumn, some pine cones may still hold edible seeds through winter. Look for mature, open cones, and take out the nuts by gently cracking the shells. Fresh pine nuts should have a mild, buttery scent and a slightly sweet flavour.

Fruits

While the variety narrows, winter can still potentially offer up the following fruits:

  1. Rosehips: These bright red fruits are full of vitamin C and add a sour, fruity flavour, perfect for making syrups or jams. Handle them carefully, though—the tiny hairs inside can sometimes irritate the skin.
  2. Crab Apples: Winter’s touch softens crab apples, making them sweeter and easier to use in chutneys, sauces, or even homemade cider. Look for small, colourful fruits on bare branches or scattered on the ground.
  3. Hawthorn Berries: These small berries are rich in antioxidants and make a great addition to jams or herbal teas. They’re best cooked, as their raw flavour can taste a little bland.
  4. Sloe Berries: Traditionally used to make sloe gin, these dark purple fruits grow on blackthorn bushes. They’re best after a frost, which softens their astringent taste, making winter the perfect time to pick them.

Foraging Etiquette and Safety

Before you head out, here are a few rules to follow:

  • Know Your Plants: Make sure you can confidently identify what you’re picking. Lots of plants have toxic lookalikes, especially in winter.
  • Respect Nature: Only take what you need and leave plenty for wildlife. Birds and squirrels rely on these winter resources.
  • Check Permissions: Some areas may have restrictions on foraging, so always check local guidelines.
  • Wash and Prepare: Give your finds a good rinse and process them properly to make sure they’re safe to eat.

Winter foraging is about reconnecting with nature during its quietest season. The thrill of spotting a shiny berry or uncovering a nut beneath the frost is unmatched. So, embrace the chill, and let the winter land surprise you!

We’re sorry!—our grounds are currently closed, but we look forward to welcoming you back on Friday, 21s March!