As autumn deepens into November, Hampshire’s woodlands and meadows transform into a mycological wonderland. This time of year, is perfect for mushroom enthusiasts and nature lovers to explore the diverse and fascinating world of fungi. From the New Forest to the South Downs, you can explore a rich tapestry of habitats where mushrooms thrive.

Cooler temperatures and increased rainfall create ideal conditions for fungi to flourish - the UK is estimated to be home to an astonishing 15,000 species of fungi, including a wide range of mushrooms, from the common to the rare.

Mushrooms not only add to the beauty of autumn walks but also play vital roles in their ecosystems. Fungi are nature’s recyclers, breaking down dead organic matter, returning essential nutrients to the soil. This process supports plant growth and maintains soil health. Insects, small mammals, and even larger animals like deer rely on fungi as a food source. Additionally, decaying logs and leaf litter, enriched by fungal activity, offer shelter to numerous species.

Penny buns can be found growing in deciduous and coniferous forest areas. Penny buns can be found growing in deciduous and coniferous forest areas. (Image: Getty) Hampshire’s diverse landscapes offer numerous opportunities for mushroom spotting. The New Forest, with its ancient woodlands and heathlands, is a particularly rich area for fungi. Look out for glorious golden-yellow chanterelles, often found in mixed woodlands, particularly under beech and oak trees; or reddish, brown penny buns – also known as porcini mushrooms – found in deciduous and coniferous forest areas. You may also spy an orangey, yellow hedgehog mushroom, recognisable by its spiky underside; or the striking red-capped, white-spotted fly agaric fungus, a familiar feature of fairytales.

If you fancy a forage, do proceed with caution, and ensure you can confidently and positively identify any mushroom before eating it, as many edible species have extremely toxic look-alikes! Better still, take part in a guided walk with an experienced forager to enhance your knowledge and ensure an enjoyable, safe experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned mushroom spotter or a curious beginner, the county’s woodlands and countryside areas offer a bounty of fungal treasures waiting to be discovered.

Autumn is the perfect time for fungi enthusiasts to get out and spot some species. Autumn is the perfect time for fungi enthusiasts to get out and spot some species. (Image: Getty)

About the author

Carly Harrod is a Countryside Projects Manager with Hampshire County Council’s Countryside Service. The service looks after many of Hampshire’s major country parks and National Nature Reserves, as well as some heritage monuments, local recreational spaces, and large areas of common land. It also manages Hampshire’s 3,000 miles of public rights of way.