I am fond of Farham’s woodlands! The town centre is on my list to visit next. Recently, Surfers Against Sewage awarded Farnham the badge of Plastic Free Community, making it the first community in Surrey to do so. The award recognises the town’s efforts to reduce plastic use. Hopefully, more towns will follow suit to preserve the region’s beauty. Surrey Hills played an important part in my and my family’s well-being during national lockdown. We used exercise time to walk in the woods. Farnham Heath was one of the places we visited. The Heath is a riot of colour in Summer and Autumn. In Summer it’s awash with hues of purple heather. Then in Autumn, you’ll find a range of fungi; my favourite is the Fly Alaric whose beauty became popular in the illustration of fable books. Now the festive season has begun, here are more reasons to visit Farham.
About Farnham Heath
At one time, Farnham Heath was a conifer plantation. The RSPB bought the land in 2002, Now the heathland is reverting to its original state. From the highest points on the heath, there is a panoramic view across the heath and forest.
Now, the wildlife on the heath includes roe deer, crossbills, nightjars, woodcocks, and tree pipits.
Fungi Spotting On Farnham Heath In Autumn
Spotting fungi in Autumn on Farnham Heath is exciting. You never know what you will find. October is the best month to set off on your fungi exploration. It’s said that on the heath there are over 150 species. They range from dinner-plate-sized parasols to cute fairy bonnets. Why not try to find at least one of the popular 5 fungi that grows on the heath :
- Man’s fingers (Xylaria Polymorpha)
- Fly Agaric (Amanita muscaria)
- Beefsteak Fungus (Fistulina Hepatica),
- Common Stinkhorn (Phallus impudicus)
- Yellow Brain (Tremella mesenterica)
- There are 15,000 fungi in the UK. Some fungi are edible but some are quite poisonous.
IMPORTANT NOTICE: little ones should be supervised during their exploration.
Upcoming Events in November – December
The festive season has begun. The lights were switched on in Farham, on Gostrey Meadow. The event was funded by the Farnham Town Council. The Mayor Cllr Brodie Mauluka, along with special guest Farnham and Bordon MP Greg Stafford and Santa switched on the lights. Later, he even joined in the live entertainment by performing on the big stage with his band Brobed Stills.
Festive event’s to to look out for incldue:
Mon 18 – Sat 23 November Weave a Willow Tree
Sat 23 Nov – Sun 1 Dec National Tree Week
Sun 24 November Farnham Farmers’ Market
Wed 4 December Farnham Christmas Civic Carol Service
Sun 8 December Farnham Christmas Market
In Conclusion
For more on days out in Surrey and beyond, click here Surreys is very special to me due to the close connection to nature. If you are a constant commuter its easy to get to Surrey Hills beauty spots via public transport from rail to ramble .
Remember to follow me on Instagram @msxpat days out and @xpatathome or my lifestyle content.
Finally, if you want to get involved in the plastic-free community, click the hyper link text.
Farnham Christmas Light Switch On Photo: Marcus McQuilton for Farnham Hearld
