A weekend of walks and talks during which we will explore the Sussex countryside in all its autumn glory. Our field trips will take us to woodlands, the South Downs and coastal habitats. Many types of wildlife will be considered – plants, fruits and berries, insects, birds and the landscape itself. Illustrated talks will enable us to learn more about these aspects of the natural world. The course will not assume any scientific knowledge and it is ideal for the beginner or the more experienced wildlife enthusiast. There will be some walking – up to 4 miles per day.

Autumn is the time when our woodlands should be abundant with fungi of all types and description. Careful observation will reveal a wealth of different species and this weekend will include woodland forays, with walks of up to 4 miles per day, led by an expert who will assist us with the methodical process of identification. During illustrated classroom sessions, we will also learn about the biology of fungi and about the huge variety of fungal types to be found in the country. Please note that the course is intended to explore the world of fungi from a botanical point of view and not with any particular concerns about edibility and culinary uses.

Gilbert White, curate of Selborne in Hampshire, published his fascinating Natural History of Selborne in 1789. We will consider the unique contribution that he made to our knowledge of wildlife; visit Selborne and some of the other places that he so loved, and see for ourselves some of the plants and creatures that he marvelled at and described so accurately. How much has the landscape changed over the years and what have we lost?